Siruli Mahavir Temple: A Spiritual Oasis near Puri
Siruli Mahavir Temple
Puri, an extremely well-liked tourist destination in the Indian state of Odisha, is also a very important pilgrimage site. It is regarded as a sacred area devoted to Lord Jagannath, also known as the Universe’s Lord. Lord Hanuman is a popular deity in Odisha, and the area is home to notable Hanuman Pithas (shrines).
One of the notable Hanuman Pithas in Odisha is the Siruli Mahavir Temple, situated approximately 33 kilometers northeast of Puri on the way to Bhubaneswar. While the temple may not be architecturally elaborate, it holds significant religious importance for the people of Odisha.
The sanctum of Siruli Mahavir Temple houses a magnificent statue of Lord Hanuman, the presiding deity. Carved from a single piece of stone, the statue depicts Lord Hanuman standing tall. In his left hand, he holds a short dagger, while his right hand grasps the Gandha Mardana mountain. The posture of Lord Hanuman signifies his intent to destroy Murasura, a demon. Adjacent to the pedestal, there is a carving of Anjana, the mother of Lord Hanuman. The black chlorite stone statue measures about 10 feet in height.
A popular legend associated with the deity is that Lord Hanuman’s left eye is directed towards the Jagannath Temple in Puri, while his right eye is set towards Lanka, the birthplace of Ravana. Atop the head of the statue, there is a Shiva Linga covered by a seven-hooded serpent. Additionally, the heart of Lord Mahavir carries an intricate carving portraying Lord Rama and Goddess Sita.
The temple faces south and is constructed using a combination of laterite and sandstones. Two majestic lion statues guard the main entrance gate. The outer walls of the temple feature carvings of Hanuman, Ganesha, Mahisamardini Durga, Shiva Linga, and a bull. Above the eastern side entrance, there are carvings representing the nine planets (Navagrahas). In front of the temple, an ancient Peepal tree (Ashvastha tree) stands, adding to the spiritual ambiance. Local beliefs attribute the construction of the temple to Anangabhima Deva III, the Ganga ruler of Odisha.
The Siruli Mahavir Temple attracts a significant number of devotees daily and during various festive seasons. Festivals such as Makara Sankranti, Rama Navami, and Dola Purnima are celebrated with immense fervor and grandeur at this temple. The locals have unwavering faith in Lord Mahavir, making the Siruli Mahavir Temple a cherished destination for spiritual seekers and a valuable part of Odisha’s tourism landscape.
