Lakshmi Varaha Jew Temple, Aul, Kendrapara

Shree Lakshmi Varaha Jew temple, is a 500-year-old  Indian temple.  It was constructed by the king of Aul in the year 1550. This ancient temple is dedicated to Varaha, the boar incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and his consort Goddess Lakshmi. The temple offers a serene and spiritual experience to the visitors. The temple is situated in the small panchayat of Aul, in Kendrapara district, Odisha on the banks of the Brahmani River.

The temple is easily accessible by bus, from the nearest town Kendrapara, located 38 km away, and Bhubaneswar, the state capital, which is 146 km away. You can also reach here by train. The nearest railway station is Bhadrak, around 50 km away. For those  who are travelling by air, Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport.

History and Beliefs Of Lakshmi Varaha Jew Temple

The founder of the temple, the King of Aul, was a devotee of Lord Varaha. He would regularly visit the nearest Varaha temple called Yajna Varaha to offer Puja. Now, the Yajna Varaha temple is in Jajpur District. However, one day during the month of Shravan, a flood occurred in the Brahmani River. So, the king could not go for Puja for several days, believing that the god couldn’t tolerate his absence. Then, the king had a dream in which Lord Varaha expressed his desire to come with him to his place in Aul.

The king usually travelled to the temple on horseback. One day after the dream, while the king was returning from the temple, he listened to another horse sound following him; this was nothing but the Lord himself, who came with him as he had dreamed. Then, the king was happy and came towards his palace. But suddenly, 1 km before his palace, the sound stopped. The king understood that the god wanted to stay here, near his palace.

The devotee king built a holy temple at the same place (where the present temple is) and named it Lakshmi Varaha Jew temple. The Yajna Varaha Temple remains there in Jajpur. Recently, the renovation of the Lakshmi Varaha Jew temple was done by the King of Aul, Late Sri Brajasundar Dev, during the 20th century.

How to Reach Lakshmi Varaha Jew Temple

The Lakshmi Varaha Jew temple is conveniently accessible from various locations, ensuring a seamless journey for visitors. If you are travelling from the nearest town, Kendrapara Town, which is 38 km away, you can easily reach the temple by bus. Bhubaneswar, the state capital, is located 146 km from the temple, and you can find direct buses connecting these two points. The nearest bus stop to the temple is the Aul bus stop, just 1 km away.

For those preferring train travel, the nearest railway station is Bhadrak, situated 50 km from the temple. After the train you can easily find a bus to the temple. 

For air travelers, the nearest airport is the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar. Bhubaneswar is well connected to the temple with multiple transportation options including buses, trains, and cars.

Architecture and Design

The Lakshmi Varaha Jew Temple is renowned for its magnificent architecture and intricate carvings. The temple follows the Kalinga style of architecture, which is characterized by its pyramid-shaped roof, richly carved walls, and elaborate stone sculptures. The main sanctum of the temple houses the idol of Lord Varaha, beautifully adorned with jewelry and garments.

Significance of the Temple

The Lakshmi Varaha Jew Temple holds immense significance for devotees of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that worshipping Lord Varaha at this temple helps in seeking protection from evil forces and attaining prosperity and happiness. The temple is also associated with various mythological tales and legends, adding to its spiritual and cultural significance.

Festivals and Celebrations

The temple witnesses a vibrant atmosphere during festivals and celebrations. The annual Rath Yatra, where the deity is taken out in a chariot procession, is a major highlight. Other important festivals celebrated at the temple include Makar Sankranti, Janmashtami, and Diwali. During these festivities, devotees gather in large numbers to offer prayers and participate in religious rituals.

Temple Timings and Entry Fee

The Lakshmi Varaha Jew Temple is open for devotees and visitors from morning till evening. The exact timings may vary, so it is advisable to check with the temple authorities or local sources before planning a visit. There is no entry fee for visiting the temple, and everyone is welcome to seek the blessings of Lord Varaha.

Accommodation Options

For those planning to stay overnight in Aul, there are various accommodation options available. The town offers a range of budget hotels, guesthouses, and lodges that provide comfortable and convenient stay options for visitors. Some popular choices include Hotel Aul Palace, Hotel Sidhi Palace, and Guest House Aul.

Nearby Attractions

Apart from the Lakshmi Varaha Jew Temple, there are several other attractions that visitors can explore in and around Aul. Some popular nearby attractions include:

1. Aul Palace: The palace is just 1km away from the temple. This is the Palace of the king of Aul the founder of the temple.
2. Baladev Jew Temple: The Baladev Jew Temple is 30 km away from Lakshmi Varaha Jew Temple. There you can see the beautiful temple and other small temples inside it. Lord Baladev is the main God worship in the temple also with his brother and sister.
3. Pentha sea Beach: This beach is 43 km away from the temple. This beach is famous for its cleanliness. This is one of the neat and clean beach of Odisha, the roaring waves ,crystal clear water, the trees and the beautiful red carb can give you peace of mind.
4. Gahirmatha Turtle Sanctuary: The Sanctuary is 48 km away from here. It is the world’s largest known rookery of the olive Ridley sea turtle. Millions of Olive Ridley turtles across the Indo-Pacific visit the beach during the mass nesting every year.
5. Bhitarkanika National Park: Bhitarkanika is 49 km away from here, It is India’s second largest mangrove ecosystem after the Sunderbans. Bhitarkanika is home to the largest congregation of the endangered Salt Water Crocodile in the country.  besides it, the park is home to numerous reptiles and Animal like the water monitor lizard, pythons, deer, hyenas, wild boar etc.

Safety Tips for Visitors

While visiting the Lakshmi Varaha Jew Temple and exploring the surroundings, it is important to keep the following safety tips in mind:

1. Respect the religious sentiments of the locals and follow the rules and regulations of the temple.
2. Dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees while entering the temple premises.
3. Follow the footwear rules by removing shoes before entering the temple premises. the temple provide designated areas for shoe storage.
4. Take care of your belongings and avoid carrying valuable items.
5. Be cautious of pickpockets and keep an eye on your personal belongings.
6. Seek guidance from local authorities or temple staff in case of any emergency or assistance required.

Conclusion

The Lakshmi Varaha Jew Temple in Aul, Kendrapara, is a true marvel, encapsulating ancient history, architectural brilliance, and spiritual significance. This sacred haven stands as a proud testament to Odisha’s rich cultural heritage, magnetically drawing both devoted pilgrims and intrigued tourists alike. Beyond its age-old history, the temple offers a profound experience, allowing visitors to connect with the divine and witness the tangible beauty of ancient craftsmanship. A visit unfolds as more than a mere sightseeing endeavor, becoming a spiritual exploration and an immersion into the cultural tapestry of Odisha, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who enter its sacred grounds.

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