On the auspicious occasion of Sri Ram Navami, heritage enthusiasts from Jagatsinghpur and beyond gathered for the third edition of the Jagatsinghpur Heritage Walks (JHW).
Approximately 30 participants immersed themselves in exploring historic temples and shrines that reflect the district’s rich cultural legacy.
The journey commenced at the Bila Sarala Temple in Tirtol block, where attendees offered prayers to the presiding deity, Goddess Astabhuja Mahishamardini, popularly known as “Bila Sarala.” Narrating the temple’s history, 85-year-old Gaurahari Panda shared the tale of Sarala Das, the revered poet blessed by the goddess. Following the destruction of Jhankad Sarala Temple during Muslim invasions, the goddess’s idol found its new abode here, continuing to inspire devotion.
Next, the heritage seekers visited the Shishu Ananta Ashram at Arilo, receiving blessings from Baba Balia. The exploration extended to the Murari Das Matha, Naga Matha, and Sudarshan Matha, all carrying the legacy of Saint Murari Das, known for his spiritual contributions during the Mughal era.
The group proceeded to the Kalapahad Ghat, a site laden with historical resonance. Researcher Srikant Singh recounted how Kalapahad, a historical figure from 1568 AD, crossed the Paika river here while en route to destroy the Ramachandi Temple in present-day Jambu. The event marks a significant chapter in Odisha’s historical chronicles.
Prominent participants such as Biswaranjan Dehury, founder of “Dhenkanal Heritage Walks,” and Prabhanshu Samantaray, a noted heritage enthusiast, lauded the initiative. Manoj Mahapatra, publisher of Granth Mandir, encouraged younger participants to preserve and document heritage sites. Organized by local enthusiasts like Prabhudatta Dash and Sambit Singh, the event highlighted unexplored treasures of Jagatsinghpur district, fostering a deeper appreciation of its history.
