Akhandalamani Temple at Aradi in Bhadrak in Odisha is
dedicated to Shiva. He is worshipped in the temple in the form of a Shivling.
The shrine is located around 37 km from Bhadrak. The temple is also famous for
miracles especially related to curing of diseases.
Legend has it that the Shivling was worshipped in all the
yugas – Satya Yuga, Treta Yuga and Dwapara Yuga. In the present Kali Yuga, the
Shivling was hidden for several years. A king in the region had a dream in
which the location of the Shivling was revealed.
The main festivals observed in the temple are Shivratri and
Pana Sankranti. Special rituals are observed in the Shravan month. Kartik Purnima and Rash Purnima festival is of great
importance here. Boita Bandana Utsav is usually observed in the Shiva Ganga Tank
of Akhandalamani on the day of Kartik Purnima. The ritual attracts thousands of
devotees.
Subsidiary deities worshipped in the temple are Ganesha, Hanuman,
Goddess Bhadrakali, Radha Krishna, Nandi and Maa Barunai. Sculptures of various
avatars of Vishnu can be found on the walls.
The temple is also noted for its architecture and sculptures.
There are numerous rare sculptures in the temple especially of deities from
Hindu pantheon.
Unique daily rituals in the temple are the food and dress of
Lord. Various types of delicacies are served to the Lord during the daytime.
Special type of Shringar and Alankar are done to the
Shivling as the day progresses.