The Biraja Devi Temple also known as Viraja Kshetra , is one of the 18 major Shakti Peethas where Devi’s naval is supposed to have fallen. This place finds mention in several ancient Puranas.
According to historic evidence during the Gupta rule a temple for the Goddess built was built here. The Somavamsis Candihar Yayati-II also constructed a great temple. During the Afghan attack in 1568 AD it was destroyed. The present temple was built by one Sudarśan Mohāpātra who was a rich zamindar of Jajpur in the 19th century.
The main area is triangular in shape. The Western, South-eastern and North-eastern corners are guarded by 3 Siva lingas called Uttarsvar/Vilvesvara, Varuṇesvara and Kilalatesvara. The goddess Biraja is at the center. The idols of several Gods and Goddesses are also there in the temple.
The temple pooja services and ceremonies are managed by a managing trust. Most of the priests and other service providers of the temple maintain a hereditary tradition. Puja, Arati, Prasad etc are done on a daily basis. And several special pujas are also conducted for devotees.
This place is a famous Pitṛu Teertha, ie, people offer piṇḍas (oblations) to their departed ancestors. There is a large well in the temple known as Nābhigayā and piṇḍas are offered into it to the ancestors.
Festivals: Several festivals are celebrated throught the year.
Timings: 5:30 am to 9:30 pm
By Air
Nearest Airport =Bhubaneswar-120K.M
By Train
Nearest Railwaystation-J K Road- 30KM
By Road
Jajpur Has bus service from other Odisa cities. From Bhubaneswar it is 120KM
Accommodation: Jajpur has limited number of hotels & lodges. Better to stay at Bhubaneswar.
