Narayani

Narayani is worshipped in Ganjam district of southern Odisha as a form of Durga. Her temple stands in Narayani village, in Khalikote tehsil, at the foot of the Bhaleri hill range between Khalikote and Balugaon, and can be reached from Narayani chowk on NH-5. Devotees see her as a caring mother who grants prosperity. Durga Puja and Kumar Purnima are observed here, and one source names Ashokastami as the most important festival, celebrated for three days. Narayani is also counted among the Astha Chandi shrines.

Narayani is an old epithet of the goddess. In the Devi Mahatmya the devas hymn her as Narayani, and the temple here is dedicated to her as Durga in that form.