Nestled in the serene village of Sonepur in Subarnapur district, Maa Sureswari Temple is a shrine of another Shakti Peetha in Sonepur, Odisha. This shrine is one of the most visited shrines in Odisha by pilgrims and devotees from across the country. The shrine is dedicated to Goddess Sureswari, a defiant manifestation of Shakti who is worshipped to bring protection and blessings.
The temple is especially important to many devotees, being known as one of the prominent Shakti Peethas, along with the traditional belief that the abode of the feminine energy resides here. Located amidst greenery and majestic trees, devotees are encased by the blissful and calm environment unique to the temple. The temple attracts visitors from every form, whether someone is simply interested in a historical site or a devout pilgrim, the Maa Sureswari Temple is a spiritual necessity of the Odisha tourist trail.
Historical Significance of Maa Sureswari Temple
Steeped in myth and legend, Maa Sureswari Temple purportedly has ancient origins traceable to the Daksha Yagna and the myth of Goddess Sati. According to local stories, the transformation of “Shakti” into “Goddess Sati” happened in this temple, and is one of the places where some pieces of her body were deposited, so it is considered a ‘Shakti Peetha’.
The temple has been historically associated with Tantric worship and Tantric practices, and is presumably referred to in some medieval Odia texts. While the region of Sonepur used to be a princely state, it has preserved this historical shrine in some form, capturing features of what used to be culturally passed down and practiced by the people of Odisha.
When you visit this temple, you are in some sense revisiting the past that fuses the qualities of history and ‘divinity’ or celebration of ‘diwah’ as the relationship between that which is human and that which is divine.
Architectural Marvel of Maa Sureswari Temple
Not only is the Maa Sureswari Temple a sacred place, but it is also a magnificent piece of architecture, exhibiting an example of the traditional craftsmanship of ancient Odisha. The temple is built in the Kalinga style and includes numerous stone carvings, meticulous sculptures of deities, and a large shikhara (spire) spire which is present in the skyline of Sonepur. In the sanctum sanctorum, the idol of Goddess Sureswari rests, decorated with ornaments and silk fabric.
One unique architectural feature of the temple is the mandapa (which is a pillared hall) where devotees engage in prayers, rituals, and activities. Decorated on the walls of the mandapa were prints of Hindu mythology, and most notably Durga slaying Mahishasura, which points to the temple being related to a certain form of Shakti puja. The combination of spiritual symbolism and artistic brilliance makes this Temple worthy for any architecture lover or devotee to visit.
Religious and Cultural Importance
Maa Sureswari Temple is not merely a shrine, it plays an important role as a center of Odisha’s culture and traditions that are rooted in our religious beliefs. During festivals like Durga Puja, Navratri, and Chaitra Parva, the temple is transformed with thousands of devotees visiting the site, strengthening the auspicious status of the temple and seeking the blessings of the goddess. Rituals such as Shodasha Upachara (16 upachara) and Tantric puja are conducted at the temple as part of the special festivities.
Local legends claim that the goddess Maa Sureswari listens to the wishes of her devotees who have produced a sincere and genuine devotion to her. Therefore, it’s a popular site for pilgrims. The temple, in every aspect, contributes to preserving the Odia traditions with programs of classical dance and music performed to further the celebrations. Regardless of whether one visits seeking refuge in spirit or as attendees of the traditions of Odisha, the visit provides a great experience.
How to Reach Maa Sureswari Temple
Looking to plan a trip to Maa Sureswari Temple? Here’s a brief travel guide:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Veer Surendra Sai Airport (JRG) in Jharsuguda, which is about 120 km away by road.
- By Train: Sonepur Railway Station can be considered as a base to explore the area. It’s well connected to most of the major cities like Bhubaneswar and Raipur.
- By Road: Sonepur is well connected by road. You can access it via NH57 and other state highways. Regular buses and taxi services are available from Sambalpur and Balangir.
Consider visiting Sonepur between October and March, when the weather is pleasant. You may also be able to explore some of the nearby attractions such as Patali Srikhetra, Maa Samaleswari Temple, and the Mahanadi River from the Temple, all contributing to the spiritual and scenic temperamental work.
Visitor Experiences and Testimonials
Devotees often report miraculous experiences after visiting Maa Sureswari Temple. Some say they were cured of health problems, and others say the goddess gratified their long-delayed wish. Local priests tell stories of how this goddess protected the area during floods and natural calamities, thereby strengthening faith in her power.
One visitor, Priya Das, says, “After praying at the Maa Sureswari Temple, my family never again had financial burdens and problems—it was like Maa had intervened.” Such testimonials help build the temple’s mystique and intrigue, attracting pilgrims each year.
Why Visit Maa Sureswari Temple?
Maa Sureswari Temple boasts a wealth of history along with marvelous architectural design and a heavy spiritual presence, and is a great source of faith and culture. If you are looking for blessings, looking to explore Odisha’s heritage, or simply looking to experience and appreciate ancient temple art, this temple has something for everyone.
Plan your pilgrimage today and move into the divine presence of one of Odisha’s most sacred Shakti Peethas!
How to Reach, Destination Facilities, Transportation, Destination Attractions, Accessibility
Open Time
Maa Sureswari Temple open timings are every day from Morning 6 am to Evening 9 pm
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Sonepur Sureswari Mandir is at all times of the year during Bali Jatra
Nearby Bus stand
The nearby Bus stand is Sonepur, which is located around 01 KM distance from Sureswari Mandir
Nearby Airport from Maa Sureswari Temple
The nearby airport is Veer Surendra Sai Airport, Jharsuguda, which is located around 143 KM distance from Sonepur Sureswari Mandir, and is about 273 km from Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar
Nearby Railway Station
The nearby Railway Station is Rairakhol, which is located around 120 KM distance from Sonepur Sureswari Mandir
