Sarala Devi is a manifestation of Goddess Durga (Mother
Goddess Shakti) and she is mainly worshipped in Orissa and eastern parts of India . Goddess
Sarala Devi is the goddess of knowledge and wisdom. She also amalgamates the
Shiva and Vishnu traditions in Orissa.
The most famous temple
of Goddess Sarala Devi is
located at Jhankad in Orissa. Here she is worshipped in three different forms
including the Mahishasura Mardini form.
Legend has it that it was with her blessings that a small
farmer named Sidheshwar Parida, became Sarala Das the author of Mahabharata in
Oriya language.
The goddess is also known as Jhankad Vasini Sharada, Maa
Sarola and Maa Sarala.