Hindu Temples of India: Shyamakali Temple, Puri, Odisha

Shyamakali Temple, Puri, Odisha

Shyamakali Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, located in Puri, a famous pilgrimage town in the state of Odisha, India. Shyamakali is the fearful and ferocious form of the mother goddess Durga. The temple is considered as the oldest temple of Puri where Goddess Kali is worshiped. This Temple is considered as one of the Sakta shrines of Puri.

The Temple is located at about 750 meters from Puri Jagannatha Temple, 2.5 Kms from Puri Bus Stand and 3.5 Kms from Puri Railway Station. Devotees can reach the temple by using the road leading towards Swargadwar from Singhadwar (Lion’s Gate) of Lord Jagannath Temple, there is a diversion to Bali Sahi. After entering this lane, reach Shyamakali Chowk, the temple is situated on the right side of the Shyamakali lane, leading from Shyamakali Chowk to Tiadisahi.

The Temple

The Temple is facing towards east. The Temple is constructed using laterite stones. Presiding Deity is called as Shyamakali. She is housed in the sanctum. She is a four-armed Kali. She stands in Pratyalidha pose on the chest of Lord Shiva. She holds a sword and displays Abhaya-mudra in her upper left and right hands respectively while her lower left hand is holding a severed human head and the lower right displays Varada-mudra.

She possesses three eyes and is surrounded by jackals and vultures carved on the side. The height of the image is around four feet. There are other two images carved on the left side of Shyamakali. These images are four handed and known as Vimala and Sarbamangala. The image of Vimala is seen standing and holding a noose, a human figure and a vase. Likewise, the seated image of Mangala holds a full moon, rosary and lotus. The significant aspect of this image is that she holds a pestle in her upper left hand.

Shyamakali has been the official deity for the Gajapati Maharaja (King) of Puri. The insignia of the royal family of Puri can be seen over her altar. Till today, according to the royal custom, the new king after his coronation, first visits this temple and worship Shyamakali. Originally the temple was under the direct supervision of the Gajapati Maharaja of Puri, but at present chief priests of the temple are taking care.