Sri Lakshmi Baraha Temple, also known as Lakshmi Varahajew Mandira is a 500 years old pilgrimage centre, is located in a small panchayat of Aul in Kendrapara District in the Indian state of Orissa. Aul is situated at a distance of almost 146 kms from Bhubaneshwar, the state capital. Geographically, it is positioned at 20° 41` 0" latitude and 86° 39` 0" longitude. The presiding deity of the temple is Varaha, the boar incarnation of Lord Vishnu along with his holy consort Goddess Lakshmi. Brahmani River and Baitarani River flowing by the side of the pilgrimage centre, adds to its beauty and tranquillity that enthrals the heart of the pilgrims visiting the temple with purpose both religious and divine.
Legend of Lakhmi Varaha Temple
A legendary fable narrates about the devotion and love of King of Aul towards Shri Lakshmi Varaha. The King, a fervent devotee, offered worship each day to the Lord located in the Maa Biraja Pitha at the Jajpur District with Yajna Varaha Temple. One day due to flood in the Baitarani River, the worship was cancelled. That night the King dreamt of the Lord instructing him to visit the temple at Atul. The King, following the instructions, rode to the temple. On his way back he was followed by the Lord who halted at Aul, one km away from the king`s palace. The King thus, erected the temple in that location to commemorate the miraculous incident. The temple was later renovated by another king of Aul, Sri Brajasundar Dev during the 20th century.
Festivals of Lakhmi Varaha Temple
Lakhmi Varaha Temple celebrates several festivals such as Varaha dwadashi, Varaha Dola Yatra, Vijaya Dashami, Kumar Purnima and Kartik Purnima, drawing hordes of pilgrims from different destinations.
Lakhmi Varaha Temple is well connected by different modes of transport. Regular bus services are available from Kendrapara, Cuttack, Bhadrak and Bhubaneshwar. The nearest railway station is at Bhadrak situated on the Chennai-Howrah railway route.
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