Vimala Temple

Minor temples in Jagannath Puri

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Religion
Affiliation	Hinduism
Sect
District	Puri district
Prefecture
Province
Region
Deity	Vimala
Rite
Festival

The Vimala Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Vimala, located within the Jagannath Temple complex in Puri, Odisha, India. The temple is considered one of the most important Shakti Peethas in India.

History

The exact date of the temple's construction is not known, but it is believed to have been built during the 9th century by the Somavamsi dynasty. The temple has undergone several renovations and restorations over the centuries.

Architecture

The Vimala Temple is an excellent example of Kalinga architecture, characterized by its intricate carvings and towering spires. The temple complex includes a main sanctum (garbhagriha) and several smaller shrines dedicated to various deities.

Deity

The presiding deity of the temple is Goddess Vimala, who is considered to be a form of Parvati. According to Hindu mythology, the temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, where the various parts of Goddess Sati's body are believed to have fallen.

Rituals and Festivals

The temple follows the same rituals and traditions as the Jagannath Temple. Major festivals celebrated at the Vimala Temple include Durga Puja, Navaratri, and Chaitra Parva.

Significance

The Vimala Temple holds immense religious significance for devotees of Shaktism and Vaishnavism. It is believed that worship at the Jagannath Temple is incomplete without offering prayers at the Vimala Temple.

Location

The Vimala Temple is situated within the Jagannath Temple complex in the city of Puri, which is a major pilgrimage site and tourist destination in Odisha.

See also

• Jagannath Temple, Puri
• Shakti Peethas
• Kalinga architecture
• Puri district