Leaning Temple of Huma
About the Leaning Temple of Huma
The Leaning Temple of Huma, situated about 23 km south of Sambalpur on the banks of the Mahanadi River, is one of India’s most fascinating temples, renowned for its mysterious tilted structure. Dedicated to Lord Bimaleswar (Shiva), this 17th-century shrine was built during the reign of the Baumara kings and stands as a living testament to Odisha’s engineering and spiritual heritage.
Quick Facts
- Location: Huma village, 23 km from Sambalpur
- Deity: Lord Bimaleswar (Shiva)
- Built By: King Baliar Singh of the Chauhan dynasty, 17th century
- Architectural Style: Kalinga-style temple with a distinct lean
- River: Located on the bank of the Mahanadi River
- Famous For: Leaning structure and sacred fish ("Kudo" fish) that devotees feed
Architectural and Cultural Significance
The temple’s unique tilt distinguishes it as one of India’s few “leaning temples.” Both the vimana (sanctum) and jagamohana (assembly hall) are tilted at slightly different angles, yet the structure has remained stable for over 350 years. Scholars attribute this phenomenon to shifts in the riverbed soil, but local people believe it symbolizes the living, breathing energy of Lord Shiva himself.
The temple complex also houses smaller shrines dedicated to Goddess Bhavani and Lord Ganesha. The adjoining stretch of the Mahanadi River is famous for the presence of sacred “Kudo” fish — large, friendly fish considered divine messengers of Lord Bimaleswar. Devotees feed them puffed rice as part of an age-old ritual.
Religious and Mythological Legend
The most famous legend associated with the Huma Temple revolves around a fisherwoman cutting fish near the riverbank. According to folklore, a humble fisherman once used to offer a portion of his daily catch to Lord Shiva at Huma. One day, when his wife was cutting the fish, she accidentally struck her blade on one that turned out to be Lord Shiva in disguise. The deity bled, and instantly, the river surged with divine power. Terrified, the woman begged forgiveness, and the Lord appeared, instructing her and her husband to worship him at that very spot. Thus, the temple of Bimaleswar Shiva was consecrated on that site.
Locals believe that this divine incident sanctified the river’s fish as holy. From then on, killing or catching fish near Huma became taboo. The fish are now seen as sacred companions of the deity, and feeding them is considered a form of worship that brings good fortune.
Festivals and Rituals
The grandest celebration at Huma is Maha Shivaratri, attracting devotees from across Odisha and neighbouring states. The Huma Mela, held annually during this time, fills the riverside with devotional songs, lamp offerings, and traditional food stalls. The temple also conducts daily abhisheka (ritual bathing) and deepa arati for devotees throughout the year.
Nearby Attractions
- Hirakud Dam: World’s longest earthen dam, around 25 km away.
- Maa Samaleswari Temple: The presiding goddess of Sambalpur city.
- Maa Ghanteswari Temple: Famous Shakti Peetha on the Mahanadi riverbank, 35 km away.
- Chipilima Hydro Project: Scenic run-of-the-river hydropower station and waterfall, 30 km away.
- Kali Temple, Huma: Small but revered shrine near the main temple dedicated to Goddess Kali.
How to Reach Huma Temple
By Road: 23 km from Sambalpur; accessible via NH-55 and local roads.
By Rail: Nearest railway station – Sambalpur Junction (25 km).
By Air: Nearest airport – Veer Surendra Sai Airport, Jharsuguda (80 km).
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Leaning Temple of Huma is between October and February. The cool weather enhances the serenity of the Mahanadi riverbank, while the Maha Shivaratri Festival (February–March) offers a spectacular spiritual experience.
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