Jharsuguda, 24th Sept 2025: Located in the Rampala Panchayat of Jharsuguda district, the Maa Samalei Kani Budhi Temple is a prominent historical and religious site. According to local beliefs, the temple is more than 300 years old and is deeply revered by the local community, who worship Maa Samalei Kani Budhi as their presiding deity.
It is believed that the temple was constructed in the early 18th century, and many supernatural tales and legends are associated with its origin. Locals say that the temple is not just a religious place but also a living symbol of their heritage and tradition.
Rich History and Deep Community Roots
According to local intellectuals, during the time of the Marhatta rule, people used to buy curd from Kani Budhi and were satisfied with its quality. Traditionally, the temple used to remain open only for 8 to 10 days a year, and these days saw large gatherings of devotees.
However, poor road conditions leading to the famous Maa Samaleswari Temple (visited by people from Ramela of Jharsuguda and Rengali of Sambalpur district) have made access very difficult for pilgrims. This has caused significant inconvenience, especially during the rainy season, when roads deteriorate further.
Community Takes Initiative for Temple Development
To address these concerns, the local residents and notable community members have formed a temple committee. The committee has reached out to the district administration and the state government to draw attention to the poor transport and infrastructure conditions, despite the temple’s religious significance.
On 27th October 2023, a meeting was held in the temple premises with participation from over a hundred conscious citizens from Ramela, Kumbharbandh, and Tilia Panchayats, where discussions were held about the temple’s development. A new committee was formed to take charge of daily rituals and initiate efforts to improve the temple infrastructure.
Since that day, the committee has been actively organizing rituals and festivals. The committee also believes that government support through development schemes can significantly boost the temple’s progress. Appeals have been made through various media channels to the district administration, local ministers, and MLAs.
Daily Worship Resumed and New Rituals Initiated
In an effort to revive the neglected condition of the temple, daily worship and rituals have resumed, and the temple priest is now being paid an honorarium by the committee. For the first time during this Hindu New Year, a Chandi Path (recitation of sacred hymns) was organized in the temple, marking a significant step in its religious revival.
Thanks to the efforts of local youth and devoted individuals from the Rengali area, some progress has been made in improving the temple’s condition. However, more government support is needed to fully restore and develop this culturally rich and spiritually important site.