BERHAMPUR: A structure thought by locals to be a temple dedicated to Goddess Gangadevi has surfaced at the beach near Podampeta in Ganjam, drawing many visitors.

The upper section of the edifice, which reportedly includes the Dadhinauti—the finial of a traditional temple—became visible on August 29 as the sea retreated along the shore. This development has sparked considerable interest, prompting a crowd to gather at the beach to see the site. Several visitors have even joined locals in clearing sand from around the structure.

Residents assert that this is the Gangadevi temple, originally erected by villagers and believed to have been lost to the sea in the late 1990s.

Sabar Tarai, an academician, recalled tales from his grandfather indicating that the shrine was never formally consecrated before it was engulfed by the ocean.

Nonetheless, the specific identity, age, and historical importance of the structure have yet to be officially determined. Experts indicate that an archaeological survey and verification of government records will be essential to uncover the site’s history.

Interestingly, about two years ago, archaeological digs took place at Palur, also known as Prayagi, located approximately eight kilometers from Rambha, conducted by the Odisha Institute of Maritime and South East Asian Studies (OIMSEAS) under the Culture department.

Sunil Patnaik, senior archaeologist and director of Excavation at OIMSEAS, noted that nearly 70 archaeological sites have been recorded in and around Palur, including regions close to Podampeta. However, he emphasized that the true nature of the structure can only be confirmed through extensive scientific excavation.

Sudhansu Pati, the convenor for INTACH’s South Odisha chapter, added that the structure’s identification is contingent upon a thorough survey and excavation process.