Dakhina Kalinga: The Land of Shaivism and Shakti Worship
Dakhina Kalinga has long been a stronghold of Shaivite and Shakta traditions. Nestled between the revered Rushikulya River on one side, the Bay of Bengal on the other, and the picturesque Kerandimala hills of the Mahendragiri mountain range from the Eastern Ghats overlooking a part of the region, its natural beauty is timeless. In ancient times, this region was known as Mahuri State, with Brahmapur as its capital. The rulers of Mahuri were known for their strength and wisdom, yet they were beloved by their people. The Narendra Dev dynasty governed this state for around 500 years, deeply devoted to Shaivism while practicing Shakta Upasana.
The Narendra Dev kings were responsible for the creation of the Asta Shambhu (Eight Shiva Temples) within the Mahuri state. Their presiding deity was Maa Kalua, and Maa Budhi Thakurani was the Gramadevati (village goddess) of Brahmapur, worshipped by all at the outskirts of the city. Rituals and festivals honoring Maa Budhi Thakurani were common and deeply embedded in the local culture.
The Arrival of the Dera Community and the Origin of Thakurani Yatra
The course of these festivities took a significant turn with the arrival of the Dera community, known for their weaving skills. Legend says that a Mahuri king, during a business trip to Rajamahendri (now Rajahmundry in Andhra Pradesh), was captivated by the exquisite silk work and the vibrant festival of the goddess celebrated by the weaver community there. Impressed, he invited them to settle in Brahmapur. Upon their arrival, they initially lived in tents, locally known as Dera, near the king’s palace in Rajah Street. The head of the community was called Desibehera.
The Dera community, being devout followers of the Shakti cult, began worshipping Maa Budhi Thakurani. According to legend, one night the Desibehera saw a young girl crying and wandering through Desibehera Street at midnight. When he asked her why she was upset, she gave no clear response. Out of compassion, he invited her to stay at his home for the night. By morning, the girl had vanished, leaving behind fragrant flowers and a lingering aroma of sandalwood. Confused and awestruck, the Desibehera visited the temple for his daily puja, only to find that the deity would not accept his offerings. Each time he placed a flower, it would fall from the idol. Suddenly, a divine voice spoke:
“From today onwards, you are my father. You no longer need to come to the temple to worship me. I will visit your home.”
Overwhelmed by this revelation, the Desibehera wept with devotion. Maa Budhi Thakurani assured him that she would visit his home every two years. This sacred event marked the beginning of the grand celebration known as the Thakurani Yatra. Since then, every two years, the Desibehera invites Maa Budhi Thakurani to his home, and true to her word, the goddess visits her earthly family.
The Thakurani Yatra: A Tradition of Faith and Celebration
As part of this tradition, an Agyanmala (a wreath of flowers) mysteriously appears in the temple at midnight, signaling the goddess’s consent to visit. The Desibehera family ceremoniously brings the Changudi (the sacred garland) home with great pomp. The following day, the flowers are placed in the sacred Ghata (pot), signifying the goddess’s presence in the house. During her stay, the entire town becomes sacred. People from all communities, regardless of caste or creed, gather to worship her at the temporary abode (Asthayee Mandap).
Devotees express their devotion through prayers and dances, often dressing in elaborate costumes representing different characters from folklore and society. Families open their homes to guests and relatives, inviting them to witness this vibrant spiritual event. The Thakurani Yatra is not just a festival—it is a deeply rooted cultural and spiritual phenomenon that brings the city of Berhampur alive with divine energy and collective devotion.
The traditions and customs of the Thakurani Yatra have endured for centuries, transforming Berhampur into a center of Shakti worship and reinforcing the eternal bond between Maa Budhi Thakurani and her earthly family. The city pulses with spiritual energy as faith, tradition, and devotion blend seamlessly during this grand celebration.
