Archaeologists have identified a previously unrecorded 11th-century temple in the dense Dhenkanal Forest of Odisha. Attributed to the late Bhauma-Kara or early Somavamsi transition period, the temple is dedicated to the goddess Chamunda. The architecture is characterized by its Khakhara style, featuring a wagon-vaulted roof and fierce tantric iconography carved into the red sandstone exterior.
Local heritage enthusiasts assisted researchers in locating the site, which had been hidden by thick vegetation for centuries. The discovery includes a series of sculptural friezes depicting the 'Sapta Matrikas' (Seven Mothers) in high relief. Preservationists are now working to stabilize the stone masonry, which has been damaged by tree roots, to prevent further structural collapse.