Mausi Maa literally translates to 'Mother's Sister' in Odia.
The deity of the temple is believed to have helped Lord Jagannath by drinking half of the ocean to allow his procession to pass, hence the name Ardhasani.
The temple is the only place during the Rath Yatra where the Lord Jagannath chariot stops specifically for a culinary offering.
Poda Pitha, a charcoal-baked sweet cake, is the signature offering presented to the deity here.
The temple follows the historical route taken by the Rath Yatra processions since antiquity.
The structure is built primarily of sandstone, consistent with the architectural heritage of the Puri region.
The Mausi Maa Temple, also known as the Ardhasani Temple, serves as a crucial stop during the annual Rath Yatra festival in Puri. Situated on the Grand Road, this shrine is dedicated to the Goddess Ardhasani, who is considered the aunt of Lord Jagannath. During the return journey of the deities, the Rath (chariot) of Lord Jagannath halts here to receive an offering of Poda Pitha, a traditional Odia pancake. The current structure is a small, modest temple built in the Kalinga architectural style. It is recognized as a Shakti Peetha in local tradition. The temple serves as the halfway point between the main Jagannath Temple and the Gundicha Temple.
From the sidewalk across the Grand Road looking toward the temple entrance.
Visit during the Rath Yatra festival to witness the ceremonial chariot halt.
Respect the local custom of removing footwear before entering the temple premises.
Keep a modest dress code, covering shoulders and knees out of respect for the religious site.
Avoid visiting during the peak heat of midday in the summer months.
The temple experiences its highest activity and special rituals during the annual Rath Yatra period in summer.
Remove footwear before entering; maintain silence inside the sanctum; do not photograph the deity directly.
