Lobhi Thakurani Temple: A Place of Worship in Angul, Odisha. The historic Lobhi Thakurani Temple, in devotion to Maa Lobhi Thakurani, is a sacred religious site in Gadasantri village, situated 13 kilometers from Angul town in Odisha. The ancient temple invites thousands of devotees annually and serves as a rich cultural heritage of the region.
Lobhi Thakurani Temple Background and Location
It is situated in the quiet village of Garh Santry (also called Gadasantri), very close to Angul district headquarters. Though the name of the deity in Sanskrit means “greedy,” local devotees interpret it differently. According to the temple traditions, although she has a lust for devotion, offerings, and prostration of the ego, nevertheless it transforms her name into a high spiritual epithet away from a very negative connotation.
The Grand Festival of Kartik Purnima
The most recognized function of the temple is the Lobhi Thakurani Yatra, which takes place on Kartik Purnima during the full moon day in the month of Kartik. Highlights of this prestigious festival include:
Festival Points of Attraction
- A grand procession covering a distance of 5 kilometers
- Community beat of drums and folk songs
- Paika dance indicates the cultural heritage of the locality
- Ritual practices of the Dehury (head priest)
- A fair lasting for four consecutive days
Ritual Worshippers
On the day of the festival, one of the most interesting rites is the transfer of the holy image of Maa Lobhi Thakurani from Aalam Ghar (the place of daily offerings) at Tulsipal village to its origin at the main temple in Gadasantri. The procession held jointly by Garh Santry and Tulsipal village attracts devotees from all parts of Odisha.
Traditional Practices
Devotees partake in some special customs during this pastoral presentation:
- Mundan ceremonies (first haircut ritual)
- Prayers for long life and good health
- Offerings to the goddess
- Social gatherings and bhajans.
Visitor Information
- Location: Village Gadasantri, District Angul, Odisha
- Distance from Angul Town: 13 km
- Best Time to Visit: During Kartik Purnima (October-November)
- Festival Duration and Activities: 4 Days
- Nearest Connectivity: Good road connectivity from Angul
The Lobhi Thakurani Temple presents an amalgamation of religious devotion, ancient cultural heritage, and fair celebrations of the community, inviting thousands of soldiers and cultural enthusiasts to its abode in Odisha.