Baba BaliKapileswar Temple Mangalaghat
Puri, India
- Explore the temple surroundings
- Offer prayers to Lord Shiva
- Witness evening aarti ceremony
Known for:
Description:
Baba Bali Kapileswar Temple, located near the Bali Sahi cremation ground in Puri, Odisha, India, is a revered Shiva shrine. The temple's presiding deity is Lord Shiva, worshipped as Kapileswar. It holds significant religious importance for locals, particularly during the Jagannath Rath Yatra festival. Devotees believe that Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra, visits this temple after the Rath Yatra to pay respects to their departed ancestors. The temple's proximity to the cremation ground adds to its unique spiritual atmosphere. It is a place where life and death converge, reminding visitors of the cyclical nature of existence. The temple's simple architecture and serene surroundings offer a peaceful retreat for contemplation and prayer.
History:
The exact origins of Baba Bali Kapileswar Temple are shrouded in local legends and traditions. It is believed to be centuries old, with its history intertwined with the Jagannath Temple and the Rath Yatra. One popular narrative suggests that the temple was established to appease the spirits of the departed and ensure their blessings for the smooth conduct of the Rath Yatra. Over time, the temple has become an integral part of Puri's religious landscape, attracting devotees seeking solace and spiritual connection. While historical records may be scarce, the temple's continued reverence speaks volumes about its enduring significance in the hearts of the local community.