Ekapada Bhairava Temple is Located just 6 km distance from Alanahat in the Jagatsinghpur district of Odisha, the Ajaikapada Bhairava Temple is an ancient shrine dedicated to Ekapada Bhairava, a rare and fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. This form of Bhairava is unique for having one leg (eka-pada) and four arms, symbolizing his transcendental and tantric nature. The original temple dates back to the early 10th century, constructed under the patronage of the Somavamsi Keshari kings, who were known for their contributions to Shaivism and temple architecture in Odisha. The temple, recognized by the Archaeological Survey, was once a grand structure. However, it faced destruction due to repeated floods and invasions by non-Hindu rulers. The current temple structure was rebuilt in the 20th century, preserving the sanctity and significance of the original shrine.
Ajaikapada Bhairava is regarded as the guardian deity of the nakshatra Purva Bhadrapada, making this temple especially significant for those practising astrology and tantra. Tradition holds that the temple was originally established by a tantric scholar and astrologer who recognized the spiritual power of the site.
