Pondi Jagannath Temple, Koriya: A Glimpse of Utkal Culture in Chhattisgarh
Pondi Jagannath Temple, Koriya: A Glimpse of Utkal Culture in Chhattisgarh

Location: Pondi Village, Khadgava Janpad Panchayat, Koriya District, Chhattisgarh
Deity: Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra
Affiliation: Utkal (Odia) Society of Chhattisgarh
Major Festival: Maha Shivndapa (local festival similar to Rath Yatra / Maha Shivratri)

🕉️ Introduction

Amidst the scenic hills and lush greenery of Koriya district (Korea) in northern Chhattisgarh, the Pondi Jagannath Temple stands as a living symbol of cultural harmony between Odisha and Chhattisgarh.

Pondi Jagannath Temple, Koriya

Located in Gram Panchayat Pondi, under Khadgava Janpad Panchayat, this temple represents the faith and devotion of the Utkal (Odia) community who migrated to this region decades ago and established a sacred replica of the Jagannath Temple of Puri.

Every year, devotees gather here to celebrate the grand festival of Maha Shivndapa, when the temple complex fills with chants, processions, and the divine energy of Jagannath bhakti.

🏛️ Architectural Splendour

The Pondi Jagannath Temple beautifully reflects the Kalinga style of temple architecture seen in Odisha:

  • The temple features curvilinear shikharas (spires) rising above a square sanctum (garbhagriha).
  • The main sanctum enshrines the deities — Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra, crafted in traditional Odia style.
  • The mandapa (hall) in front of the shrine accommodates devotees during rituals and bhajans.
  • Outer walls are adorned with simple yet graceful carvings inspired by Odia motifs, adapted by local artisans.
  • The temple’s whitewashed exteriors give it a radiant appearance under sunlight, symbolizing purity and divinity.
  • The temple courtyard provides ample space for large gatherings and Rath Yatra-style processions during festivals.

Though modest in scale compared to its Puri counterpart, the Pondi shrine maintains the same spiritual essence, connecting devotees of Chhattisgarh to Lord Jagannath’s eternal presence.

Pondi Jagannath Temple
Pondi Jagannath Temple

📖 Legends & Local Beliefs

The Pondi Jagannath Temple carries several fascinating stories and traditions:

  1. Origin through Utkal Devotees
    Decades ago, Odia families settled in the coal-rich Chirmiri–Koriya region for livelihood. To preserve their faith, they established this temple under the Utkal Society, mirroring their beloved Jagannath Temple of Puri.
  2. Replica of Puri’s Temple
    Local lore suggests that artisans connected with the original Jagannath temple tradition contributed their skills to replicate Puri’s sacred design in Pondi.
  3. Festival of Maha Shivndapa
    The most significant annual event is celebrated on Maha Shivndapa — a regional festival blending Shaiva and Vaishnava traditions. The deities are decorated, special pujas are held, and thousands of devotees participate in devotional singing, dancing, and food offerings (mahaprasad).
  4. Faith and Miracles
    Villagers believe that prayers offered here with pure devotion bring peace, prosperity, and healing. Many recount instances of divine grace and fulfilled wishes associated with the temple.
Pondi, Chirimiri, Chhattisgarh 6, Pondi Jagannath Temple, Koriya
Pondi, Chirimiri, Chhattisgarh 5, Pondi Jagannath Temple, Koriya
Pondi, Chirimiri, Chhattisgarh4, Pondi Jagannath Temple, Koriya
Pondi Jagannath Temple2, Pondi Jagannath Temple, Koriya
Pondi Jagannath Temple1, Pondi Jagannath Temple, Koriya

🚗 How to Reach Pondi Jagannath Temple

📍 Location & Address

  • Village: Pondi
  • Panchayat: Khadgava Janpad Panchayat
  • District: Koriya (Korea), Chhattisgarh
  • State: India
  • Managed by: Utkal Society, Koriya

The temple is listed among the places of interest on the official Korea District website.

🛣️ By Road

  • The nearest town is Chirmiri, about 20–25 km from Pondi.
  • Local buses, taxis, and shared jeeps are available from Chirmiri and Khadgava.
  • Roads are motorable but may require caution during the monsoon season.

🚉 By Train

  • Nearest Railway Station: Chirmiri Railway Station (CMI)
  • Connected via rail routes to Bilaspur, Raipur, and Anuppur.

✈️ By Air

  • Nearest Airport: Swami Vivekananda Airport, Raipur (CG) — approximately 340 km away.
  • From Raipur, one can reach Chirmiri by road or train and then proceed to Pondi.

🕓 Best Time to Visit

  • October to February: Pleasant weather and good road conditions.
  • Maha Shivndapa festival time — perfect for witnessing the vibrant local celebrations.

🏞️ Nearby Attractions

If you’re visiting Pondi Jagannath Temple, several natural and spiritual sites nearby offer a complete pilgrimage and nature experience:

  1. Amritdhara Waterfall – A picturesque waterfall on the Hasdeo River, 30 km from Baikunthpur.
  2. Gaurghat Waterfall – A serene cascade surrounded by dense forests.
  3. Ramdaha Waterfall – A scenic picnic spot near Banas River.
  4. Kalibadi Temple, Chirmiri – Dedicated to Goddess Kali, offering panoramic views of the hills.
  5. Gufa Mandir (Cave Temple) – A unique cave shrine located in Godaripara near Chirmiri.
  6. Maha Maya Temple, Ratanpur – A historic temple complex dedicated to Goddess Mahamaya.

☎️ Contact Details

While there is no dedicated temple office listed online, visitors can contact local administration or the Utkal Society of Pondi / Khadgava Block for details. Alternatively, check Justdial – Jagannath Temple, Pondi, Chirimiri for local contact numbers.

🪔 Conclusion

The Pondi Jagannath Temple of Koriya stands as a divine bridge between Odisha’s Jagannath culture and Chhattisgarh’s devotional landscape.

Through its festivals, rituals, and strong community involvement, it continues to spread the timeless message of Lord Jagannath — universal love, equality, and compassion.

For those seeking both spiritual tranquility and cultural richness, a visit to this temple in the serene landscapes of northern Chhattisgarh is truly rewarding.

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