Nestled in Sindhipar village near Damanjodi in Koraput district, Odisha, lies the mystical abode of Goddess Kanta Baunsuni—a sacred bamboo grove that has remained untouched for centuries. It is around 23 km distance from Koraput town. This unique site is not just a place of worship but also a living museum of biodiversity, carefully protected by the tribal communities of Koraput. The grove is home to towering bamboo plants, some rising as high as 200 feet, believed to be the sacred shrine of Goddess Kanta Baunsuni. Unlike other temples, here the deity resides within the forest itself, and the bamboo clusters are treated as divine. Maa Kanta Baunsuni Mandir is one of the famous temples in Koraput, Odisha.
The main festivals of this temple are Pus Parab, celebrated with great devotion, and Dasahara, when a new red cloth is tied to the main bamboo plant (Asthana), while devotees offer ghantis (metallic bells) for fulfilled wishes. Ritual sacrifices of fowls, goats, and sheep are performed during the celebrations. It is also believed that a patakhanda (sword) guards the grove, protecting it from any harm. The sacred grove is not only a spiritual centre but also a biodiversity hotspot, home to several endemic and endangered species of flora and fauna. The bamboo forest, left to natural decay after ageing, sustains the ecological balance of the region. A natural pond within the grove further enriches the ecosystem. If you are a traveller seeking a blend of spirituality, tribal culture, and natural beauty, the shrine of Goddess Kanta Baunsuni is a must-visit.
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