Discover the rich heritage of Jajpur, Odisha this World Heritage Day. Explore ancient temples, Buddhist sites, and cultural traditions that make Jajpur a hidden gem of India’s historical landscape.
By @satyapriya Biswal | April 18 – World Heritage Day
Every year on April 18, people around the globe come together to celebrate World Heritage Day, also known as the International Day for Monuments and Sites. It’s a time to reflect on the importance of preserving cultural landmarks that tell the story of our shared human history.
Today, let’s take a journey to one of Odisha’s most spiritually and historically rich places—Jajpur, often known as the “Viraja Kshetra” and the former capital of ancient Odisha.
🛕 Jajpur – Where Heritage Breathes Through Stones and Rituals
Long before Bhubaneswar became Odisha’s capital, Jajpur held that honor. Once known as Biraja Kshetra, this town is a hub of ancient temples, sacred rituals, and archaeological marvels. It is home to the Maa Biraja Temple, one of the most important Shakti Peethas in India.
The name Jajpur itself is steeped in cultural depth—believed to be named after King Jajati Keshari, who shifted the capital from Jaipur (Rajasthan) and made this land a cradle of spirituality, scholarship, and sculpture.
🌸 Why Jajpur Matters on World Heritage Day
- 🏛️ Maa Biraja Temple – This 13th-century shrine is not only an architectural wonder but also a site of continuous worship for centuries. The deity, Maa Biraja, is worshipped in a rare form as Durga slaying Mahishasura.
- 🏺 Archaeological Heritage – Excavations have revealed Buddhist stupas, Jain relics, and ancient Shiva lingas spread across the district. Jajpur is a true example of religious harmony through time.
- 🌿 Cultural Practices – The people of Jajpur have preserved age-old traditions in dance, music, and food. Rituals like the Ratha Yatra, Dola Purnima, and local fairs are a window into Odisha’s deep cultural roots.
- 🧱 Unexplored Sites – Spots like Ratnagiri, Udayagiri, and Lalitgiri (near Jajpur) are globally significant Buddhist sites that await proper world heritage recognition.
✨ Protecting Jajpur’s Legacy
World Heritage Day reminds us that these monuments are not just stones—they’re stories. Jajpur deserves greater attention for its rich history and deserves to be preserved for future generations.
Whether it’s through promoting sustainable tourism, encouraging local youth to value their history, or digital documentation—every step counts.
📷 Experience Jajpur
If you ever visit Jajpur, don’t miss:
- Early morning aarti at Maa Biraja Temple
- A short trip to Ratnagiri’s Buddhist monastery ruins
- Shopping for traditional silver filigree (Tarakasi) crafts
- Savoring local dishes like Pakhala Bhata and Mutton Curry
🌍 On This World Heritage Day…
Let’s shine a spotlight on places like Jajpur—where the pulse of history still beats through the land, the temples, and its people. A heritage that’s not just to be seen but to be felt.
Have you been to Jajpur? Share your story in the comments or tag us with your photos this World Heritage Day!