Sakhigopal

Sakhigopal, located at distance of nearly 10 to 20 kilometers from Puri, is one of the most famous pilgrimage spots of Orissa. It is an ideal place to get an insight into the Hindu philosophies and learn more about the religion.

Sakhigopal is basically famous for the Sakhigopal Temple. This is at temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is one of the oldest temples of Orissa and one of the most famous ones too.

The term Sakhigopal means the 'witness deity'. The temple has a story behind it. As per legends, the great Lord Krishna came down from Vrindavan to this place to solve a conflict between two Brahmins. The elder of the two Brahmins had promised the younger one that once they reach this place he would give his daughters hand in marriage to the younger Brahmin. However, even after reaching this place, the elder Brahmin refused to fulfill his promise.

The younger Brahmin of being cheated went to Vrindavan and told Lord Krishna the whole story. It was then that the great lord came to this place and made sure that the elder Brahmin fulfilled his promise. The lord basically bore witness to the marriage and hence the deity was named Sakhigopal.

The Sakhigopal Temple houses a life-size statue of child Krishna. Devotees come here regularly to offer prayers to the lord. The temple also has the statue of Shri Radha. One can get to see the feet of the deity only on the 'Anala nawami' Day. During special occasions, like Janmastami and Raas Leela, the temple is extensively decorated. A large number of ceremonies are held, which are attended by a large number of devotees.

Sakhigopal is a symbol of Hinduism and one of the major Krishna temples of the state of Orissa. Visiting temples are a major part of the excursions near by Puri and thus a visit to this temple is definitely a part of it.