Wooden Sun temple at Buguda a big draw for tourists over years

When we think of Sun temple, immediately picture of Konark temple comes to our mind. Odisha is famous for Konark temple, which is one of the seven wonders of India. Though everyone knows about Konark temple, most of them have no knowledge about Buguda-based Sun temple. Let’s know features of Buguda-based Sun temple... 

Tourists have a misconception that Konark is the only Sun temple we have in our state. However, Buguda-based Biranchi Narayan temple is dedicated to Sun God which many people don’t know. Biranchi Narayan temple is famous for its wooden craft.  As God Sun is worshipped here it is known as second Konark temple. Thousands of tourists from State and neighbouring States visit the temple every year. 

King Srikara Bhanjadeva of Ghumusura kingdom had started its construction in 1777 AD and completed its construction in 1790. Since then, Surya Dev has been offered puja here.  The temple is prominent for its wood carvings which is why the temple is known as Katha Konark.  

Biranchi Narayana temple is the abode of Sun God, the prime deity of the temple.  As the temple faces west, it is seen sun rays touch the Sun idol during sunset. This temple follows all its rituals related to Sun God. This temple is based on a wheel and seven horses. The chariot is being driven by Sun God’s Sarathi Arun.

It is learnt that the idol of Lord Biranchinarayana was recovered from the ruins of Malatigada Fort in the Malati hills near Kendupadar and installed at the temple.  You can find narration of Krushna’s birth, killing of Kansa demon and Kanchi abhijana through patta chitra on the walls of the temple. Special puja is offered during Samba Nabami and Rama Nabami in the temple.

Major festivals like Makara Sankranti, Magha Saptami and Janmastami are also celebrated in temple with pomp and gaiety.

Rabi Narayan Das, Mahanta of the temple says “It’s second Konark of Odisha. In Konark temple, God Sun is not worshipped. In Biranchi Narayan temple Sun God has been worshipped since inception of the temple.”

Priest Balaram Padhi said, “Samba Dasami festival is observed in a big way in this temple.  Magha Saptami is also celebrated here amid the presence of thousands of devotees.”