Bhubaneshwar is known as Ekamra Kshetra and Shiva is worshiped here as Lingaraj. There is an interesting story as to how Goddess Parvati arrived at Ekamra Kshetra. The story begins with Shiva disappearing from the crowded Kashi.
As the story goes, Goddess Parvati, aware of Shiva's quest
for solitude and peace, embarked on her own journey to reunite with him. Having
learned of the serene Ekamra Kshetra through Lord Brahma's guidance, she
ventured forth, determined to find her beloved.
Upon arriving at Ekamra Kshetra, Parvati was greeted by a
mesmerizing sight: a vast gathering of cows congregating beneath a majestic
mango tree, seemingly in a trance as they effortlessly milked themselves.
Intrigued by this extraordinary spectacle, she sensed the presence of Shiva's
divine influence.
Disguising herself as a Gopaluni, a maiden cowherd, Parvati
immersed herself in the tranquility of the surroundings. Assuming the role of
caretaker to the enchanted cows, she tended to them with love and devotion.
This act of service endeared her to the land, and she became an integral part
of the divine energy that permeated Ekamra Kshetra.
The place where the cows originated, known as
Gosahasreshwar, or the present-day Gosagareshwar Temple, became her sanctuary.
Here, amidst the sacred surroundings, Parvati patiently awaited the reunion
with her beloved Shiva, embracing her role as the nurturing force that
harmonized with his essence.
Thus, the arrival of Goddess Parvati at Ekamra Kshetra
symbolizes the eternal bond between Shiva and Shakti, illustrating the
inseparable union of masculine and feminine energies in the cosmic dance of
creation and dissolution.