This Unique Temple In Odisha Feeds Cats Before Offering Prasad And Treats Them As Sacred Residents

In the peaceful neighbourhood of Kendrapara, Odisha, there is a special place that serves as a symbol of respect and kindness, not only for people but also for the cats that live there. This is the Bileikhia Mutt, also known as the “Cat Monastery,” a centuries-old temple that has a remarkable custom of feeding and tending to cats before giving devotees prasad, or blessed food.

Inside Odisha’s 280-Year-Old Temple Of Cats

Located in Bileikhia Mutt, the Madan Mohan Jew Temple is filled with peace, serenity and compassion. But what really makes this temple stand out from others is its commitment to animal welfare, particularly the cats that live here. Bileikhia Mutt serves as a reminder of compassion like no other place in the world.

The custom of feeding the cats before the devotees started nearly 500 years ago. It is said that the tradition began when King Braja Sundar Deb of the Aul Kingdom saw the eighth Mahanta of the Mutt feeding so many cats in the temple. The Mahanta explained that he begged for food and shared it with the cats. 

According to OrissaPost, the king was so touched by this act of generosity that he gave the mutt acres of land so the cats would always have food. For over a century, this royal custom has been followed. Even today, before any prasad is served to the human guests of the temple, the cats of Bileikhia Mutt are fed.

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A Sacred Symbol Of Compassion

At this unique temple in Odisha, cats roam around freely, relaxing in quiet spots and generally living a tranquil life. While some of these cats were born here, others were brought in by locals who knew the mutt would provide them with care and shelter. With the Mahanta (priest) of the temple carrying on the custom, the cats have been fed every day for generations. The number of cats has decreased over time, but their significance in the temple has not altered.

The Bileikhia Mutt is a haven for people looking for peace and quiet. The temple stands out for its compassionate treatment of both its human and animal inhabitants.

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