Dhenkanal: The 19th edition of the Dhenkanal Heritage Walks (DHW) took participants on an enriching journey to the Dhunighar Monastery in Ranjagola village on Sunday, with 45 heritage enthusiasts joining the exploration. Situated in the Hindol sub-division under Balimi police limits, the Dhunighar Monastery stands as a serene testament to history, spirituality, and legends amidst the natural beauty of the region.
Estimated to be over 300 years old, the monastery was established by Bankata Bihari, a saintly Brahmin preacher renowned for his spiritual prowess. According to lore, after installing a sacred eternal fire (akhanda dhuni), the saint attained supernatural abilities, drawing devotees, including the then ruler of Hindol garjat. In gratitude for being blessed with a son, the ruler donated substantial land to the monastery, solidifying its historical and cultural significance.
The monastery complex boasts several distinctive features, including a Dhuni Temple, a unique Mukti Mandap supported by 13 differently shaped pillars, a well known as pavachha kupa, shrines dedicated to Ashta Shambhu and Brahma, and a Jagannath Temple. The site also includes the Mahant’s residence, a meditation hall, and the tomb of its founder, Baba Bankata Bihari, who took a jeevanta Samadhi (living burial), his resting place now enclosed within stone walls.
Among the monastery’s most revered elements are personal belongings of Baba Bankata Bihari, such as a wooden bowl, sandals (kathau), and loincloth (kaupin), which are ceremonially cleaned and venerated each year on Raja Sankranti. A unique aspect of the monastery is its Vaishnavite identity, reflected in the absence of flags atop its temples.
The monastery also hosts the Amba Panasa Yatra (Mango and Jackfruit Festival) during the four days of Raja, drawing devotees and visitors for a grand celebration of its cultural heritage. Despite its historical and cultural significance, the Dhunighar Monastery has yet to receive official recognition as a tourist destination, although it fulfills the criteria for such status.
The DHW trail to the monastery was led by Suresh Prasad Mishra. Upon their arrival, the participants were warmly welcomed by the monastery’s Mahant, Madhabananda Das, along with the local sarpanch, trust board officials, and dignitaries.
Prominent attendees included Prasanna Kumar Pattnayak, president of the District Journalists’ Association, educationist Bipin Bihari Pani, retired professor Ramesh Chandra Sahu, and Bimal Pradhan, Head of the History Department at Khajuriakata College. Poets Akshaya Patra and Narayan Pattnayak, along with students from Dhenkanal College, added to the vibrant mix of participants.