Bhubaneswar, Mar 10: The 19th edition of the Puri Heritage Walks (PHW) witnessed enthusiastic participation from heritage lovers who explored the historic Lokanath Marg and its surrounding landmarks in Puri on Sunday. The walk aimed to highlight the rich cultural and historical legacy of the sacred town.
The heritage trail began at the Bargi Mahavir Temple located at Chhapan Chhak. Heritage researcher Ashoka Manjari Nayak explained the origin of the temple’s name, noting that the Bargis or Maratha raiders once entered the region through the Lokanath Ghat route. As they worshipped Lord Hanuman, a Hanuman idol was installed along the path. It is believed that the raiders refrained from attacking after offering prayers there, which led to the deity being known as Bargi Hanuman.
The next stop was the historic Dukhishyam Chhata Matha, believed to be contemporary with the Jagannath Temple. According to tradition, King Chodaganga Deva was cured of leprosy at this place and later established the deities of Narasimha and Radha-Madhava while building the temple. However, parts of the math are now in a dilapidated condition.
Participants then visited Girnari Banta, known as the Advaita Brahma Ashram and associated with the spiritual practices of Totapuri Baba. The walk concluded at the revered Lokanath Temple, where participants discussed the temple’s history, architecture, and rituals after offering prayers.
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