KALIGHAT KALI TEMPLE

Kalighat Kali Temple is a Hindu temple in Kalighat, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali. It is one pf the 51 Shakti Pithas

KALIGHAT KALI TEMPLE

The term Kalighat originated from the goddess Kali who resides in the temple, and Ghat (riverbank) where the temple is Located. As per mythology, on learning about the death of Sati by self-immolation, Shiva was blinded in rage and started the Tandav Nritya (Dance of Destruction). To prevent the world from eminent destruction, Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshan Chakra to cur the corpse of Sati into 51 pieces, whichfell in various places of the indian subcontinent. Kalighat represents the site where the toes of the right foot of Dakshayni or Sati fell.

HISATORY OF KALIGHAT KALI TEMPLE

The Kalighat Kali temple in its present from is about 200years old, although it has been referred to in Mansar Bhasan composed in the 15th century, and Kavi Kankan Chandi in the 17yh century. The present structure of the temple was completed under the Sabarna Roy Choudhury family’s patronage 10 1809. Santosh Roy Choudhury, Kali devotee started construction of the present-day temple in 1798. It took 11 years to complete the construction. The factual authenticity of Roy Choudhurys’ being the traditional patron of the deity is disputed. Pilgrims to the site practice a holy dipping event called Snan Yatra in the temples’s of Kundupukur tank .

IDOL OF MAA KALI

IDOL OF MAA KALI

KALIGHAT KALI

KALIGHAT KALI TEMPLE

The idol of the Goddess Kali, featuring three big eyes, four hands and a long protruding tongue, is made out of sandstone that was crafted by the twin saints, Atmaram Giri and Brahmananda Giri. The tongue and the eyes of the idol are made of gold

The idol does not resemble the usual idols of the Goddess at other places where Kali is worshipped. The hands of Goddess hold scimitar, signifying the divine knowledge and served head of the demon king, shumbha, which signifies the human ego that is supposed to be slayed by the divine knowledge and removed from our behaviours .

https://youtu.be/Z-ZCuiIKYmM?si=eJa4l-jxutxr44kc

FEATURES OF KALIGHAT KALI TEMPLE

1 . Idol of Goddess Kali: The temple houses a majestic black stone idol of Goddess Kali.

2. Shakti Peetha: Kalighat is considered a Shakti Peetha, where Goddess Sati’s left foot fell.

3. Worship: Regular puja (worship) and archana (prayer) ceremonies are performed.

4. Festivals: Durga Puja, Kali Puja and other Hindu festivals are celebrated.

Visiting Hours

The temple is open for darshan (visit) from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

https://youtu.be/Z-ZCuiIKYmM?si=8JNousRe8CYXVk0BLocation KALIGHAT KALI TEMPLE

Kalighat Temple is situated in the kalighat area of Kolkata, accessible by taxi, bus or metro.

Significance: KALIGHAT KALI TEMPLE

The Kalighat Temple hold immense importance in Hinduism, particularly for Goddess Kali devotees. It,s a prominent center for Shakti worship and offers spiritual solace.

Architecture: KALIGHAT KALI TEMPLE

The temple’s architecture blends traditional Bengal and Islamic styles, featuring intricate design and vibrant colors.

Tips for Visitors:

1. Dress modestly.
2. Remove shoes before entering.
3. Respect temple rules.

Contact

Phone: +91 33 24641303

Email : mailto: kalighattemple@gamil.com

Nearby Attractions KALIGHAT KALI TEMPLE

1. Victoria Memorial
2. Indian Museum
3. Fort William
4. Howrah Bridge

The Kalighat Temple is an iconic spiritual destination, attracting millions of devotees and tourists annually.

https://youtu.be/Z-ZCuiIKYmM?si=0SKCjZsNwyG

https://youtu.be/Z-ZCuiIKYmM?si=0SKCjZsNwyGLFdlh

SOME POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE SENTIMENT WORD

Here are some positive and negative sentiment words associated with Kalighat Temple:

Positive Sentiment Words

1. Sacred
2. Spiritual
3. Divine
4. Historic
5. Cultural
6. Vibrant
7. Peaceful
8. Revered
9. Iconic
10. Enlightening

Negative Sentiment Words

1. Congested
2. Commercialization
3. Chaotic
4. Dirty
5. Overcrowded
6. Noisy
7. Disorganized
8. Expensive
9. Tiring
10. Confusing

Mixed Sentiment Words

1. Traditional (positive for cultural significance, negative for outdated practices)
2. Busy ( positive for energetic atmosphere, negative for overcrowding )
3. Colorful ( positive for vibrant for visual overload)

Reasons for Negative Sentiments

1. Overcrowding and long queues
2. Aggressive vendors and begggars
3. Poor maintenance and cleanliness
4. Commercialization of sacred spaces
5. Difficulty navigating the temple complex

Reasons for Positive Sentiments

1. Spiritual significance and historical importance
2. Vibrant atmosphere and Cultural festivals
3. Beautiful architecture and intricate designs
4. Peaceful ambiance and calming energy
5. Opportunity for spiritual growth and self-reflections

History of Kalighat Kali Temple, Kolkata

Though the exact date of the temple’s origin remains a mystery; however, the “Ghat of Kali” appears in the texts of 15th-century Mansar Bhasan and the 17th-century Kavi Kankan Chandi. Besides these illustrious stories, coins from the Gupta Empire (around the 4th-6th century) period have evidence of Kalighat Kali Temple Kolkata. 

Studies further suggest that the initial structure might have been a small hut, and King Manasingha of the Malla dynasty built a small temple during the 18th century. However, the present structure of the Kali Ghat Calcutta traces back to 1809 and was constructed by the Sabarna Roy Chowdhury family of Barisha. 

Legends Associated with Kalighat Mandir 

The Kalighat Kali Temple Kolkata is shrouded in legends that not only add mystique but also historical significance. According to Hindu mythology, Sati sacrificed herself in protest against her father’s disregard for Shiva. Overcome with grief, Lord Shiva carried her charred body throughout the universe. And to prevent further destruction, Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshan Chakra to dismember Satis’s body.  As a result, Sati’s body parts fell apart onto various locations on earth, and her toes fell at the very place where Kalighat Mandir stands now. 

Architecture of Kalighat Kali Temple 

Kalighat Mandir boasts a unique architectural style blending tradition and regional influences. The primary structure follows the Bengal Chala style, resembling a hut-like appearance. The most distinctive feature is Aat Chala which is an eight-panelled roof, comprising two sets of interconnected sloping sides. The main temple structure has a four-sided plan with a truncated dome and the entrance features ornate gateway structures. The intricate carvings enhance the beauty of the temple’s facade, enhancing a sense of sacred pilgrimage. 

Inside the temple complex, you will see the Natamandir, a rectangular verandah, which Zamindar Kashinath Roy commissioned in 1835. You will also see Jor Bangla, the platform outside the sanctum sanctorum, where the rituals within Garbha Griha take place. While you are inside the temple, you will find a three-foot-high rectangular altar, namely, Sosthi Tala — a symbol of divine female energy. Nakuleshwar Mahadev Temple and Radha-Krishna Temple also adorn the complex. 

Kolkata Kalighat Temple Timings 

Kalighat Kali Temple Kolkata is one of the venerated religious hubs, hosting an array of festivals and rituals. Major festivals are Durga Puja and Kali Puja, and during this time, thousands and thousands of devotees offer poojas. During Navaratri, you can witness nine-night festivities; while Diwali illuminates the temple. Kalighat Mondir opens for devotees from 5:00 AM to 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM.  

Remember, the timings for Darshan, Aarati, Pooja, and Bhog might change during festivals and special days. Also, Ashtami, Tuesdays, and Saturdays are special days for worship at Kalighat Mandir. 

As you can understand Kalighat Kali Temple Kolkata is a must-visit destination, filled with mythological stories and rich history. The temple is located near Kalighat Metro Station, ensuring easy access from any part of the city. Overall, the Kalighat Mandir stands as a powerful symbol of faith, tradition, and cultural vibrancy. It’s a place where religious devotion merges with artistic expression and historical significance, making it an integral part of Kolkata’s cultural identity. 

Legend

The term Kalighat originated from the goddess Kali who resides in the temple, and Ghat (riverbank) where the temple is located.^[2]

As per mythology, on learning about the death of Sati by self-immolation, Shiva was blinded in rage and started the Tandav Nritya (Dance of Destruction). To prevent the world from eminent destruction, Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshan Chakra to cut the corpse of Sati into 51 pieces, which fell in various places of the Indian subcontinent.^[3] Kalighat represents the site where the toes of the right foot of Dakshayani or Sati fell.^{[citation needed]}

History

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The Kalighat Kali temple in its present form is about 200 years old, although it has been referred to in Mansar Bhasan composed in the 15th century, and Kavi Kankan Chandi in the 17th century. The present structure of the temple was completed under the Sabarna Roy Choudhury family’s patronage in 1809. Santosh Roy Chowdhury, a Kali devotee himself, started the construction of the present-day temple in 1798. It took 11 years to complete the construction.^[4] The factual authenticity of Roy Chowdhurys’ being the traditional patron of the deity is disputed.^[5] Pilgrims to the site practice a holy dipping event called Snan Yatra in the temple’s Kundupukur tank.^[6]

In 1835 Kashinath Roy built a Nat Mandir in the temple square. In 1843 Vaishnavite Uday Narayan Mondal, a member of the Bawali zamindar family, established the present day ShyamRai temple in the Kalighat temple square. In 1858 a Dal Mancha was installed by Madan Gopal Koley for the ShyamRai temple.^[7][8]

Kalighat Kali Temple
View of the Kalighat Temple
Religion
Affiliation	Hinduism
Deity	Kali
Festivals	Kali Puja
Location
Location	Kolkata
State	West Bengal
Country	India
West Bengal
Geographic coordinates	22°31′12″N 88°20′31″E
Architecture
Completed	1809
Website
www.kalighatkalitemple.com