Budhi Thakurani is an ancient tribal deity, whose blessings are invoked particularly in Angul, Odisha. Budhi Thakurani Temple, located in the central portion of Angul town in the state of Odisha is dedicated to Goddess Budhi Thakurani. The Sunasagad Hill is present on one of the sides of this historical temple. Black granite has been used to create the idol of the Goddess and it resembles a pillar. The culture of worshipping Budhi Thakurani is closely connected to the custom of `Budha Budhi worship` as per the traditions of tribal cultures. Budhi Thakurani is also worshipped in Jerang and Purnakot villages of Odisha, while `Budha Thakur` is prayed to in Para, Bagedia and Ogi villages.
The period during which Budhi Thakurani first came to be worshipped is a mystery. However, some historical accounts claim that the Goddess was first worshipped by a Kandha king who once reigned over Angul and used the hill, which was known as Sunasagada. Budhi Thakurani was established as the king`s `Esta Devi` and was worshipped by the ruler. Gradually, this region was covered with dense forests, which was cleared by the British when they captured this area in the year 1848. In 1896, the British had moved their official headquarters to Nuagada from Purnagada and begun to plan the town of Angul. Roads were being constructed for the public service of the residents of Angul and therefore the forests had to be cleared. While chopping off the forests, the idol of Goddess Budhi Thakurani was discovered and from that time onwards, the Goddess began to be worshipped as the `Adhistatri Devi` of this region.
During 1956, a saint had visited Angul. He arrived at the `Shakti Peetha`, which was the temple of Budhi Thakurani and was awe-struck when he caught sight of the idol of the Goddess. Out of curiosity, he started digging the rear portion of the idol but was compelled to return disappointed when he failed to find something significant. The holes made by digging were filled soon after and the authorities of the temple of Budhi Thakurani have placed a statue of a lion at the spot. Currently, this temple draws innumerable devotees since the awareness about Budhi Thakurani has spread throughout the town and also the entire district. At present, the Goddess is revered as the `Grama Devi` or `Esta Devi` of the region.
