Sonepur: Nature has been generous in Subarnapur district as it is gifted with scenic rivers, green forests, and beautiful landscapes. In addition to the natural charm, the many temples situated in the district double up its beauty. Many tourist attractions along with the district’s rich heritage and famous handicrafts have given this land a unique identity. The presiding goddess of Subarnapur district is Maa Lankeswari whose shrine is situated on a mound of rocks in the middle of the Mahanadi river. A ‘Maha Arati’ is performed here by the Maa Lankeswari Development Committee on the occasion of Dussehra. This religious event is held for 11 days from Mahalaya to Vijaya Dashami.
Thousands of people flock to this temple every evening during these 11 days to witness the ‘Maha Arati’. Lankeswari shrine at Sonepur town in Subarnapur district attracts crowds of tourists to this place around the year. The natural sound of the Mahanadi flowing along with a cacophony of hundreds of colorful birds creates a musical atmosphere here at Maa Lankeswari temple premises. This place was famous as a ‘Tantra Peeth’ during the 7th8th century AD.
However, with time Goddess Lankeswari is being worshiped as the presiding deity by the Kaibarta community of Sonepur and the people of Subarnapur district. Tourists from all over Odisha throng here for worship and to enjoy the scenic beauty of the place around the year excluding during the floods in monsoon season. The new temple was constructed by the Kaibarta people towards the end of the 20th century. Thousands of tourists who visit here not only enjoy the scenic beauty of the temple but also enjoy picnicking on the large rocky mounds inside the river. The charm of boating to the temple in country-made boats makes for a special experience for the tourists. Demands are being made to place the shrine on the state’s tourism map.
