Temples In India

West Bengal Kalighat Kali Temple

Kalighat Kali temple is considered one of the 52 Shakti Peethas and it is believed that skull of the Sati was fallen in this area and the point where that body part touched the earth become fiery red as Goddess Durga took incarnation in new and attacking form. Goddess Kali is known for her revengeful action on evils and supporter of kind hearted devotees. Kalighat is on the bank of river Hooghly in Kolkata city where this temple is located.

History

History of this temple is not very old and the present structure is not more than 200 years old. According to the historical evident, this temple was originally constructed in 17th century A.D. The reference of this temple is also described in a famous composition named Mansar Bhasan written in 15th century. Though some coins recovered from Kalighat as archeological excavations are of the age of Gupta period. The coins having Archer were very familiar and famous in Kumaragupta-I reign have been found in Kalighat area and this is self explanatory regarding existence of this temple. Originally there was a small temple and believed to be built by King Manasingha during his reign in 16th century. After a long time, the temple is renovated in 1809 and present shape acquired.

Architecture

This temple is beautifully designed and planned. Entire building is standing on 3.3ft wide iron and concrete beam and double storied. Garbhagriha of the temple is very amazingly architecture. A semicircular dome fixed on a square shaped erection of walls (including arches on all the sides). These walls have been constructed on a large sloppy wall base. In front of the main tower of the temple another small tower is also erected in same manner. Around this tower four other small towers have been provided. Ground floor of the temple is not so sophistically designed and entrance of the temple has an iron channel. This portion is well surrounded with other residential buildings and shops. Internal portion of the temple is well designed and carved. Sculptures of ancient era have also been made on the walls and roof. Garbhagriha has been supported with wider beams and pillars. Towers over Garbhagriha are also having three small and sharp pillars and provides a look of trident from far.

Attractions Near the Kalighat Kali Temple

Some attractive places are located in nearby areas of this temple.

Sosthi Tala

This altar was constructed by the Gobinda das Mondal during 1880. The grave of Brahmanand Giri is also in this place. A unique feature of this temple is that no men priests are here. Goddesses established in this temple are considered the incarnation of Maa Kali.

Natmondir

This is a large platform constructed in rectangular shape. This was built during 1835 and further so many times renovated till date. This place is adjacent to the main temple and a point to see the face of presiding deity of the temple.

Jor Bangla

The verandah of the temple which is towards the main image of the temple is known as Jor Bangla.

Harkath Tala

This place is very close to Natmondir and used as a tarmac where sacrifice is practiced. Buffalo is also sacrificed at this place but Sheeps and Goats are sacrificed at small altar. Tradition is there to sacrifice the animal in one go.

How to Reach

This place is accessible by all the means of transportation.

By Air

Kolkata (Dum Dum) is the nearest airport located at 11 kilometers from this temple. Buses and taxies are easily available.

By Rail

Howrah, Sealdah are the nearest rail heads from both the sides. Besides the major trains connected from outside the city, Trams and metro trains are well connected from railway stations to this temple. Metro train station is at Jatin Das Park and Kalighat. Steps and escalators are available at these stations for ease of passengers.

By Road

Inside Kolkata city, road transportation is very easy and all time, all place available. Local buses and taxies can be hired from each point of the city to reach this temple. From other neighboring cities Kolkata is well linked through various state and national highways. Buses towards South Kolkata pass from the location of this temple i.e. Shyama Prasad Mukerjee Road.

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