History and Lore

Puruhutika Devi Temple is one of the Ashta Dasha Shakti Peethas, believed to mark the spot where a part of Sati's body (her Seat (back portion)) fell when Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshana Chakra to cut Sati's corpse after the Daksha Yagna, establishing it as the 10th Shakti Peetha. The region's ancient name, "Puruhoothika Puram," evolved to "Peetika Puram" and finally to "Pithapuram." This complex is also part of the Trigaya Kshetrams, specifically known as the "Pada Gaya" Kshetram. Here, it is believed that the demon Gayasura laid his massive body as a platform for a yagna performed by Brahma for the welfare of humanity. His body was said to be so large that his head was in Gaya (Bihar), his torso in Nabhi Gaya (Jajpur, Odisha), and his legs in Pithapuram. The sacred pond where his feet were believed to have rested is called Pada Gaya Sarovar,.

Another legend speaks of Lord Shiva’s presence as Sri Kukkuteswara Swamy in the form of a Swayambhu (self-manifested) Spatika Linga (crystal Linga), resembling a rooster, which gives him his name. Devotees believe that bathing in the Padagaya Sarovar and offering prayers to their ancestors at this site provides spiritual liberation.

Architecture

The Puruhutika Devi Temple, though modest in size, captivates visitors with its intricate carvings. The outer walls feature detailed depictions of the Ashta Dasha Shakti Peethas, adding to its artistic and spiritual significance. The temple, situated in the northeast corner of the Kukkuteswara Swamy complex, faces south. Inside, it is said that the original statue of Devi is buried beneath the temple floor, believed to be undisturbed over the centuries.

Within the Kukkuteswara Swamy temple, the main deity of Lord Shiva is represented by a two-foot-tall, self-manifested Spatika Linga (crystal Linga), adding to the temple’s allure. In front of the main temple stands a large, beautifully carved Nandi statue, crafted from a single stone. Alongside is the shrine of Sri Rajarajeswari, consort of Kukkuteswara Swamy, symbolizing divine harmony. The Padagaya Sarovar, located near the entrance, serves as a sacred site where pilgrims take a ritual bath and offer prayers to their ancestors.

The Sri Puruhutika Devi and Kukkuteswara Swamy temples together form a revered and unique spiritual complex, blending architectural grandeur with deep-rooted mythology and tradition.