Ganjam: A temple believed to be dedicated to Goddess Ganga Devi has resurfaced at Podampeta Sea Beach in Ganjam district, nearly 25 years after it was submerged by the advancing sea, drawing curious locals to the site.
Parts of the structure, including its upper portion (Dadhinauti), have become visible following a recent recession of the sea. The sight has sparked considerable interest among residents, with several people visiting the beach to catch a glimpse of the structure emerging from beneath the sand.
According to local residents, the area was once home to a sizeable settlement comprising around 100 households. However, over the years, coastal erosion and the advancing sea gradually engulfed the settlement, damaging several houses and forcing residents to move to safer locations.
Residents believe the exposed structure is the Ganga Devi Temple, which was reportedly built by the local community in honour of the deity. Local accounts suggest that the temple could not be formally consecrated before the settlement was submerged.
The re-emergence of the structure has brought back memories of the settlement that once stood along the coastline. Elderly residents have been recounting how the sea gradually advanced towards the settlement, eventually swallowing homes and other structures.
The exposed remains have now become a point of interest for locals, many of whom have been visiting the beach since the structure became visible.
While local residents identify the structure as the Ganga Devi Temple, its exact history, age and circumstances of submergence are yet to be officially established.
Verification through government records and an archaeological assessment would be required to confirm the identity of the structure.
