ମା ଚର୍ଚ୍ଚିକା ପୀଠ , ବାଙ୍କୀ

Charchika Maa of Banki is a powerful, ancient Shakti Peetha dedicated to Goddess Charchika (a form of Goddess Chamunda), located on Ruchika hill in Banki, Cuttack district, Odisha, known for its spiritual ambiance, tantric significance, and unique deity representation with eight arms, drawing devotees seeking blessings and cultural immersion, especially during festivals like Banki Mahotsav.  Deity: Maa Charchika, an eight-armed Goddess, considered a fierce aspect of Durga/Chamunda, adorned with skull garlands, holding weapons, and seated on a prostrate human body. Location: On Ruchika Parvat, by the Renuka River, in Banki town, Cuttack District, Odisha, India. Significance: One of Odisha's oldest Shakti Peethas, a major pilgrimage site with deep tantric roots and historical importance. Features: The temple complex also houses idols of other deities like Shiva, Mangala, and Jagannath, with a unique tradition of devotees tying red tapes to the Bela (wood apple) tree. Attraction: Famous for its mystical atmosphere and the spectacular Kumari Vesha (goddess adorned as a maiden) during Banki Mahotsav.