History:

Dakshineswar Kali Temple - Kolkata In West-Bengal is one of the most famous and popular Hindu temples situated on the banks of the Hooghly River, in Dakshineswar near Kolkata. It is dedicated to the Divine Mother, Bhavatarini, an aspect of Goddess Kali. The temple was built in 1855 by Rani Rashmoni, a philanthropist and a devotee of Kali. It is a popular pilgrimage destination and is visited by devotees from all over India and abroad. The temple complex includes a traditional temple complex, Panchavati garden, Vedic school, and 12 shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. It also houses Dakshineswar Ramkrishna Sangha and an Ashrama dedicated to Swami Vivekananda. It is renowned for its spectacular events such as the Pranami mela, Ramkrishnapuram fair, and the Akhercha festival. It is one of the best temple in West-Bengal which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Dakshineswar Kali Temple is located at Dakshineswar near Kolkata on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River. 2. The temple was built in 1855 by Rani Rashmoni, a philanthropist and a devotee of Maa Kali. 3. The temple compound, apart from the nine-spired main temple, contains a large courtyard surrounding the temple, with rooms along the boundary walls. 4. Within the temple compound, there are 12 shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, and a temple dedicated to Radha-Krishna. 5. The temple is famous for its association with Ramakrishna Paramhansa, a famous 19th-century saint. 6. The complex also houses the Panchavati - a grove of five trees placed in a circle, said to represent the five elements of Indian cosmology. 7. The Dakshineswar temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for devotees of Maa Kali. 8. Visitors can also enjoy the musical fountain show organized by the temple itself. Here are some facts about the West-Bengal temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in West-Bengal

Worship Method:

The Dakshineswar Kali Temple in Kolkata is one of the most visited religious sites in all of West Bengal. This temple is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Kali, and is one of the most important Shakti (divine female energy) temples in India. The temple complex is closely associated with Sri Ramakrishna and Swami Vivekananda, two very important spiritual figures in the 19th century. The daily worship in the Dakshineswar Kali Temple starts with the evening arati at 5.30pm which is followed by aarti (circumambulation) of the holy deity. Prasad (food offering) distribution follows and the bhog (feast) is then served to those who have attended the puja (ritual ceremony). The evening rituals in the temple ends with Dakhshina Bhog and the priest stops the puja when the Dakhshina is offered. The morning rituals in the temple start with the morning aarti at 6am with chanting of mantras. Then the priest performs the puja and the offerings of flowers and incense are made to the deity. Bell ringing and distribution of prasad follow after the puja. The afternoon rituals are similar to the morning rituals with the main difference being that shorter prayers are chanted. The main ritual at the Dakshineswar Kali Temple is the Kumari Puja which is performed by young girls. This Puja is offered to the Goddess Kali in the hope for a safe and prosperous life. Another significant ritual at the temple is Jaagran (night vigil) which is offered once a month. This practice symbolizes the protection of the Goddess from the negative energies of the night. At the end of the day, the Goddess is offered Mangala Aarati which is a special lighting of lamps around the temple complex.This ritual is said to bless the devotees and visitors with peace, prosperity and harmony. Finally, a special evening Aarti is performed at 8.30 pm every day. This ritual is said to invite the presence of the Supreme Divine into the temple. This most visited temple in West-Bengal

Opening Timing:

Dakshineswar Kali Temple is open every day from 5:30 AM to 12:30 PM and from 3:00 PM to 8:30 PM. top temples in West-Bengal

How to reach:

By Bus: Dakshineswar Kali Temple is located 14 km from the city centre of Kolkata. There are regular state-run and private buses from Esplanade Bus Stand that ply to Dakshineswar. By Train: The nearest railway station to the temple is Dakshineswar Station which is located 1 km away from the temple. There are many local as well as long distance trains that commute to Dakshineswar. By Car/Taxi: Renting a car or booking a cab/taxi is the best and most convenient way to reach the temple from the city centre of Kolkata as it is just a 30 minutes ride from the city centre. famous temples in West-Bengal