Purnagiri Shakti Peetha

Maa Tara Tarini Temple crowns the Kumari Hills above the Rushikulya River in Ganjam District, Odisha. The twin Goddesses Tara and Tarini are worshipped as forms of the Divine Mother, and the shrine is counted among Odisha’s four Adi Shakti Peethas. Pilgrims reach the hilltop by road, a long flight of steps or ropeway, giving the temple both devotional and scenic importance.

The Peetha is recorded as Purnagiri, with Tara Tarini Peetha, Sthana Peetha and Sthana Khanda among its alternate names. Tradition associates the site with Sati’s breasts. The Goddesses are Tara and Tarini, while the corresponding Bhairava is Tumbeshwar, also written Tumkeswar, Tumbeswar or Utkeswar. Although spellings vary, the breast association is central to the shrine’s sacred identity and explains the Sthana-related names.

Chaitra Jatra, held on Tuesdays during the Chaitra month, is the temple’s largest annual festival and draws major crowds from Odisha and neighbouring regions. Monthly Sankranti observances and Navratri are also important. The temple’s hilltop position, living tribal and regional connections, and recognised Adi Peetha status make it one of Odisha’s most significant Goddess destinations. Tara Tarini naturally anchors a Ganjam pilgrimage circuit and is often discussed with Vimala, Biraja and other major Shakti centres of the state.