Bhadrakali Temple, Aharapada

Bhadrakali Temple stands on the edge of Aharapada village in Bhadrak district, about 8 km south-west of Bhadrak town, which is popularly believed to take its name from the goddess. Her image is of black granite, seated in the lotus posture on a lion. The name points to Kali, but because of the lion some hold that the deity is really Durga.

Legend says Bhadrakali was first worshipped in a cave on Meghasana hill in Mayurbhanj district by a sage called Tapasa Rushi. After his death his pupil Bhadranatha brought her to Bhunyamahalla in Bhadrak, and the Dikshits later moved her to the present spot to keep her safe from Kalapahad. The temple is open every day, 6.30 am–1 pm and 3–9.30 pm, and draws its biggest crowds at Vijaya Dashami and Deepavali.