Baisakh Mela 2025 - Harishankar and Nrusinghanath Temple Festival | Date, Full Festival Guide

Introduction

Gandhamardan Hills, on the border of Balangir and Bargarh districts of Odisha, have two unique temples: Harishankar temple at Balangir and Nrushinghnath temple on the Bargarh side. Every year, as summer arrives during Nrusingha Chaturdasi, Baisakh Mela is celebrated at Harishankar and Nrushinghnath temples. It bursts into life with vibrant colors, sacred chants, and thousands of smiling faces. It’s that magical time again. Baisakh Mela 2025 is here, and it promises a 5-day celebration of devotion, tradition, and Sambalpuri culture like never before!

Festival Dates

The Baisakh Mela will be held from May 8 to May 12, 2025, at the revered Nrusinghnath and Harishankar Temple, nestled at the foothills of the mystical Gandhamardan range. Known for its rich spiritual legacy, this mela is more than a religious fair—it's a confluence of mythology, history, local art, and hospitality.

Historical Significance of Nrusinghnath and Harishankar Temples

The spiritual connection between Nrusinghnath Temple and Harishankar Temple goes beyond devotion; it is rooted deep in history, mythology, and ancient learning.

Nrusinghnath Temple: Legacy of the 8th Chauhan King

The majestic Nrusinghnath Temple, located in Paikmal, Bargarh, was founded by King Baijal Dev, the 8th ruler of the Chauhan dynasty of Patna. The temple's foundation was laid during the 15th century AD (not BC), and inscriptions on its walls beautifully narrate its construction history.

Standing at a height of 45 feet, the temple is architecturally divided into two key sections:

The sanctum sanctorum housing Lord Nrusinghnath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu in his unique Marjara Keshari (feline-lion) form.

The Jagamohan, which serves as the temple’s assembly hall.

Harishankar Temple: Discovery of Divine Grace

Further enriching the region’s spiritual landscape is the Harishankar Temple, discovered by the rulers of Patna in the 14th century. The temple is dedicated to Lord Harishankar, a composite form of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Among its notable relics is a rare Dancing Ganesha idol, dating back to the 12th century, reflecting the temple's ancient roots and artistic excellence.

Nrusingha Chaturdarsi Mela or Harishankar Mahotsav Event Guide 2025

Here is the full information of 2025 Harishankar temple festival (Baishakh Mela) guide. Click image for HD resolution.

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Trekking on Gandhamardan Hill

The Gandhamardan Hills in Odisha are a captivating destination that blends natural beauty, cultural heritage, and ecological richness. Renowned for the scenic 16 km trekking trail connecting Harishankar Temple to Nrusinghanath Temple, the hills offer adventurers a journey through lush forests, serene valleys, and picturesque waterfalls. Home to over 1,055 plant species, including many with medicinal value, and nearly 500 species of wildlife, the region is a biodiversity hotspot. According to Hindu mythology, Gandhamardan is believed to be the hill carried by Lord Hanuman from the Himalayas to Lanka to save Lakshman’s life, adding spiritual significance to its natural allure. Recognized as a Biodiversity Heritage Site, the Gandhamardan Hills stand as a symbol of sustainable tourism and conservation in Odisha. 

Thousands of tourists trek during the festival on Gandhamardan Hill during the festival. This is the best time to be in the part of this cultural event.