Bhubaneswar, Aug 24: Adding a new chapter to Odisha’s growing heritage-walk movement, the first Khordha Heritage Walks (KHW) was organised at historic Gada Khordha with the participation of young heritage enthusiasts, researchers, writers, journalists and heritage explorers from across the State.
The walk began at the historic Kunjabihari Temple, where participants learned about its architectural and cultural significance. Senior Khordha intellectual Bimal Kumar Sarangi highlighted the region’s contribution to Odisha’s history and spoke about the arrival of Bhoi dynasty ruler Raja Ramachandra Deva and the establishment of Khordha Fort.
Writer and heritage enthusiast Prof. Gopal Chandra Das explained the history of the temple, including its association with Lord Jagannath’s journey during the first Nabakalebara. Built in the traditional Pidha style, the temple houses Radha-Krishna as presiding deities, along with Trivikrama, Varaha and Narasimha. Bullet marks believed to date from the British campaign against Khordha can reportedly still be seen on its walls.
The walkers subsequently visited Jagannath Lilakshetra, where traditions associate Lord Jagannath with a temporary stay during journeys undertaken to protect the deity from external attacks. They also visited Govindajew Math, associated with the Sakshigopal tradition, where participants witnessed neglected heritage structures and difficult access through a muddy, waterlogged path.
The walk continued through Khordha Fort and Rajabati, where participants learned about Raja Ramachandra Deva, the Bhoi dynasty and the strategic importance of the fort surrounded by hills. A museum is being developed at the fort ruins with government assistance, while restoration work is underway at historic Rani Pokhari.
Other important sites covered included Buxi Pokhari, Raghunath Dev Temple, Vrindavan Dev Math, Raghunath Temple, Nilakantha Temple and Radhakanta Dev Temple. Participants expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of several ancient structures and sculptures.
At Radhakanta Dev Temple, they learned about traditions associated with Buxi Jagabandhu and examined its intricate Pidha-style architecture. The temple is reportedly facing problems such as vegetation growth, rainwater leakage, waterlogging and inadequate maintenance.
Organisers announced that Khordha Heritage Walks will be held on the fourth Sunday of every month, providing a regular platform for exploring, documenting and creating awareness about the region’s heritage.
Heritage enthusiasts and conveners from Cuttack, Puri, Dhenkanal, Jagatsinghpur and Ganjam also participated. Senior advocate and cultural researcher Shakti Prasad Mishra, journalist Samarendra Baliarsingh, Jyotsna Mohapatra, Jinod Mohanty, Biswajit Das, Preeti Pallavi, Chandrakant Behera and Shreyan Mishra were among those from Khordha who joined the inaugural event.
The initiative is expected to encourage greater youth and public participation in documenting, conserving and promoting Khordha’s rich historical and cultural heritage.
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