In and Around: Nilamadhaba
In and Around: Nilamadhaba
Chakapada
Situated at the feet of Mount Manibharda, it is located on the banks of the river Brutunga. An imposing temple Birupakshya dedicated to Lord Shiva is an important landmark. About thirty years ago, a Rajasthani Brahmin, Shri Basudev Sharma had established this Temple and the tradition of worshipping the deity has continued till date.
This temple has a unique architectural feature. It is a learning Temple. This is probably the second learning temple of Orissa after the famous leanign Temple of Huma at Sambalpur. Maheshwar Patra, a worhsipper at this temple has an interesting story to narrate:
According to the Ramayana, the Demon King of Lanka-Ravane had gone through a very long and ardous meidation of Kailash to fulfill the much awaited wish of establishing Lord Shiva in his Kingdom Lanka. Pleased with Ravana’s devotion, Lord Shiva agreed to come to him. However, thee was one-condition-at the time of travelling from Kailash to Lanka, Ravana was not to place Him anywhere below the earth. Otherwise, Lord Shiva would vanish immediately. Though Ravana was a Brahmin, he had to follow all the rules of the rituals strictly and for this he had to bathe twice daily.
On the way to Lanka, when the Sub set, he was passing through the banks of Brutunga. The sight of the rive made him desire for a bath. He looked for someone who could hold the Lord for sometimes until he returned after bathing. A Brahmin was passing by and Ravana requested him to hold the Lord. The Brahmin agreed, but for a little time only. Ravana asked the Brahmin to call him back thrice before leaving but when he returned after bathing, he could not find the Lord.
After repeated requests, the Lord appeared but refused to go with him to Lanka. Lord Shiva said He would like to be established there in such a way so that His image would face south-wards. From that day trees, houses, mountains, temples even the Gods faced south-wards.
Gochhapada It has many tribal settlement adjoining it and is almost untouched by modernity. There are mountains and hills, deep forest covers, rivers and ponds. The Ghati here is also a place, of tourist interest. Communicating with the locals may be a bit of a problem because they use a different dialect. It is an ideal setting for painters who can paint the verdant landscape.
Balaskumpa It is 18 kms away from Phulbani. It is an ideal excursion spot and the presiding diety is Barla Devi who is considered by the local people to be the Creator of the World. The Barala Devi is an incarnation of the mother goddess.
Khajuripada The Barala Devi Temple is situated near Khajuripada. There is a fair organized by the local people every year. Traditional Orssan theatre (Jatra) performances are held during the mela. This form of theatre is vanishing rapidly, so don’t miss it. Khajuripada is an ideal place for photography. The terrain, greenery and the people make interesting subjects.
Putudi It is a sight for jaded nerves and an over-worked physique. The natural goodness and air of good spirits will rejuvenate the tired and those suffering from physical ailments. Flora and fauna connive to make you forget all your worries and over. You could bathe and picnic here. This is located 15 kms away from Phulbani. The river Badasaluki flows through it.
Charisambhu Also known as Jagati, Charisambhu is famous because of the Lord Charisambhu Anatha Vishnu Temple. This temple has many interesting architectural features. Charisambhu unlike other temple towns is not as noisy. Peace, tranquility and a feeling of devotion mark this place which is a must see for travellers.
Belghar Adjoining huge areas of forest covers. Belghar is well known for its elephants. Elephants-the regal animals can be seen in their natural habitat, at home in their surroundings. Huge trees, many centuries old, still survive given the nature of the eco-system which has not yet been threatened with deforestation unlike other forest covers. It is 158 away from Phulbani.
Luisingha This is another tribal area and is mainly inhabited by Santhals - a tribal ethnic group. The local market here is excellent with fresh vegetables cultivated nearby, cooking implements, utensils, cattle fairs and handicrafts. If you have never seen a tribal market place, don’ miss it.
Madhapur It is a junction on the way to Bolangir and another road connects it to Phulbani. If you want to rest for a couple of hours before going back to Phulbani, you could relax here in the midst of a lush country side. A tiny hamlet, Madhapur, typifies an Indian village.
