Tantrik Culture of the place

Goddess Sarala was popularly known as ‘Sarola Chandi’ till fifteenth century as it is stated in Oriya Mahabharat.

Chandi or Sapta Sati interpolated in the Makandeya Purana known as one of the Shakta Tantrik text of brahimincal religion. The entity and culture of the goddess Sarala has been derived from the Sapta sati Chandi written by great sage Markandeya. As per the description in the text Goddess has retained Shiva’s trident, Vishnu’s Chakra, Vayu’s bow, Surya’s arrow, Bishwakarma’s sword. Indra’s thunder, Ayirabata’s bell and Himaban’s Lion. It is considered as the main source of the idol Godess Sarala. Chanting of sacred verses of Sri Chandi is one of the most learned practices inside the temple. Everyday chanting of the sacred text at the Shrine not only one of the important rituals but it is very portative for devotees.

Tantrik aspects of ritual are still in practice from time immemorial, which is the witness to the undeniable fact that is a great Shakta Tantrik peetha. The aspect of Pancha “MAA” Kara puja by Panada Pujak is found in the daily rituals.

Ghata Nrutya as it is being performed by the “Roul”, the Sevak of Goddess is another aspect of Tantrik worship. Roul is described as a Tantrik (Maha Gunia) in Oriya Mahabharat. A wooden stand carrying potful of water (Ghata) is decorated in flowers. Roul Sevak wearing Sarees, Bangles (Khadu), ankle (Pahuda), vermilion (Sindoor), Kajala different types of ornaments. Decorating himself in a mythological picturesque manner heading the Ghata without any support gives swinging dances. It is supposed that the will of the Goddess is acted in dance form of the Roul. The ritual seems to be one of the oldest customs of Shakta tantrism as has been adopted in different Shakti Peeths.

The practice of animal sacrifice (which has been discontinued since long) on the occasion of Mahastami Sandhi Puja, Dussehra is another witness of Shkata tantrik peeths, though the ritual is not in vogue at present.

News

The Sarala Temple Trust Board meeting was held on 2nd. October' 2012 on collector's office under the presidentship of Collector, Jagatsinghpur
The devotees are requested to donate generously in the "Hundi" placed inside and outside temple premises. Your donation in the "Hundi" goes to the temple fund.
An ATM is opened near the temple for the convenience of the devotees and general public
Tthe temple "Prasad" is now available for general public at a cost Rs. 35/- per person. Arrangements are made for taking "Prasad" in newly constructed "Anand Bazar", backside of the temple.
 

Gallery

See all Pictures