Raja Veer Surendra Sai Palace is also known as Raja Bakhri, located 2.5 km distance from Sambalpur town and the bank of the Mahanadi River. This place is of great historical importance, as it is associated with legendary freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai. Once upon a time, it was the centre of the freedom movement in Western Odisha and had seen many historical events. It’s also called the Rajabakhri Palace. The Surendra Sai Palace consists of 30 rooms with a queen’s palace.
- The Rajabakhri Palace, built around 350 years ago (dating to the 17th century) by Baliyar Singh, the fifth Chauhan ruler of Sambalpur, was a gift to his daughter Jema Dei.
- Historically known as ‘Dasamahavidya Mahal,’ the three‑storied structure reportedly had 16 rooms: 7 rooms each on the ground and first floors, with the remaining 2 rooms on the top floor.
- The palace today is in a dilapidated condition. Many parts are collapsed, overrun by wild vegetation, and potentially dangerous to explore—especially after sunset due to antisocial activity and the presence of poisonous creatures.
- Rajabakhri Palace is a touchstone of Odisha’s royal heritage, embodying architectural elegance and familial history. Yet, its neglected state highlights the urgent need for heritage preservation.
