Toshali Sands

The shrine of Goddess Vimala located in the South-Western corner of the Temple facing the east. This Temple appears to have been built during the Ganga period. Madalapanji, states that the Temple of Vimala was also constructed by Yayati Kesari. The Temple has Sanctum, Jagamohana, Natamandira and Bhoga mandap. At the entrance we can find Ganesh and Karikeye flanked on either side. Here the Nata Mandir is elongated. The Nata Mandir has depictions of Dasamahavidya and cult images. The image of Goddess Vimala is four armed and holds a Akshyamala (Rosary), a human figure, a Kalasa (Jar), while the fourth hand is in varada pose. Matsyapurana, refers Vimala as the presiding deity in Purusottama Kshetra.”Vimala Purusottamaâ€? being conceived as Durga, it is only thrice in a year during Mahastami of Asvina Durga Puja, the animal sacrifice is offered as a part of ritual. From Saptami to Navami she is also offered fish. The visitors pay regard to godess Vimala while visiting the Jagannath Temple. Vimala is basically a form of Parvati worshipped with great veneration and considered as one of the Adisakti pithas.

To the North side of th Temple of Vimala, there are Temples of Benumadhab, Yogeswar, Sakhigopal, Kanchiganesh and Khirachora Gopinath. Kanchiganesh is a significant image which was brought from Kanchi. It is now worshiped here. The iconography of the image is unique.

After that the western gate of the Temple is located where two tigers are to be seen on the both sides of the outer entrance. At the down Rameswar Mahadev, Sri Jagannath, Dwarikanath, Badrinath are worshipped. These Temples are later additions over the historical period. Flower and Basil (Tulasi) gardens can be seen in this side. On the right side, the Museum (Niladrivihar) is located. Here one can see different sculptural representations of the Jagannath cult.