Details of 12 famous temples in Kolkata
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Kolkata is an inseparable part of West Bengal, a metropolis, a modern city where the riverbed is set against the vermilion sky in the morning, in this busy city every day is busy trying to make a living. Kolkata is a vibrant city with the last vestiges of its cultural history, a city of art lovers depicting their daily struggles amid the hustle and bustle of city life.
In fact, Kolkata takes its name from the word Kalighat, which is the hillside of the goddess Kali. It is also home to one of India’s 51 Shaktipeethams, where Sati’s body parts are said to have been severed. In technology and urbanization, the one thing that never stands still is the love and devotion to God that we are blessed under the holy city of joy. The rich ethnic and cultural heritage combined with folk beliefs infuses a deep devotion in our hearts, which is why Kolkata is also the center of many temples, the abodes of Hindu gods. Despite the myriad bases of our deities, temples, both in their statues and their beautiful decorations, are worth a visit. This article reveals the list of all temples in Kolkata.
12 Must-Visit Temples in Kolkata with Photos:
1. Garrigat Temple:
A crowded temple in the heart of a bustling city, Kalighat in southern Kolkata is not only known for the rampant crowds that flock to the temple daily, but also for its lively past, where it is believed that the goddess who dwells in idols is one of The most lively and energetic goddess ever. Paying homage to the goddess Kali, the Kalihat Temple attracts huge crowds every day.
2. Lake Kalibari:
Another form of Goddess Kali, Goddess Karunamoya inhabits this temple on South Avenue in Kolkata. Mr. Haripada Chakraborty, a strong admirer and devotee of Goddess Kali, established this temple. Word of mouth says this place is called Kalibari Lake, but the real name is Sree Sree 108 Karunamoyee Kalimata Mandir.
3. Dakshineshwar Kali Temple:
Just a few yards from the City of Joy is Dakhineshwar on the Hooghly River, one of the city’s most famous temples, attracting thousands of worshippers throughout the month. A must visit for religious lovers when in Kolkata, Dakshineshwar is a Kali temple, probably one of the most responsive and active gods ever created.
4. Belur Mathematics:
Belur Math is another must visit place in Kolkata. Again situated on the banks of the Hooghly River, just across from Dakshineshwar is Belur Math, established by dedicated Swami Vivekananda in honour of Ramkrishna Paramhansa. If the buildings and surrounding landscapes don’t confuse you, the unique blend of Islamic, Hindu and Christian themes will surely confuse you.
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5. Birla Temple Kolkata:
Elegantly constructed of bright white marble, this temple is located in Ballygunge, Ashutosh Chowdhury Avenue, and was built by the wealthy industrialist Birlas family. The temple was built to provide shelter to Lord Krishna and his wife Radha, the classic couple from Indian folk believe.
6. Pareshnath Jain Temple Kolkata:
Pareshnath Jain Temple Kolkata is one of the most stunning beauties still aloft. The peaceful setting blended with the scenic beauty is not only astounding, but also the splendid gardens surrounding it. A peaceful gateway to the busy city, this temple was built in honor of Pareshnath of the 23rd Jain Tirsankar.
7. Kali Temple, China:
Goddess Kali is primarily seen as a Hindu deity, but this unusual Chinese Calcutta Kali temple is way cooler than a mere Kali worship place. This amazing temple was actually built for the Chinese, where the priests are all Chinese and serves up the typical Saturday night Chinese take away Prasad.
8. Fire Mandir:
The Fire Temple in Kolkata is a vibrant temple painted in scarlet, built and worshipped by the Parsis tradition here. The Parsee religion believes in the divine power of fire, and this amazingly beautiful temple was born directly from this concept.
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9. Sai Baba Temple, Kolkata:
Sai Baba Temple is located on BT Road and has been open to the public since 2013. With the continuous increase in the number of Sai Baba believers in Kolkata, the temple is always full of people and activities are very lively. Daily starts with Puja and Arti to Baba and weekly with energetic bhajans. Art at night is a must-see at the temple.
10. Shiva Temple in Kolkata:
The Tarakeshwar Temple in Kolkata is one of the most popular sacred destinations. This temple is a shrine to Lord Shiva and was established in 1729 by King Bharamalla. The temple is located near the Tarakeshwar railway station and there is a king’s palace next to it. Temples are usually very crowded, and at Shivaratri, there is a large crowd of devotees waiting to catch a glimpse of their favorite deity.
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11. Buddhist Temples in Kolkata:
Nippon Sanmyoho Temple is one of the most popular places in Kolkata. This is a beautiful structure located in the south of Kolkata. The milky white building was built by Hitachi Fujii, a disciple of the eminent monk Nichiren. This stunning temple has a golden border on a white structure and has a golden stupa.
12. ISKCON Kolkata Temple:
ISKCON Temple in Kolkata is one of the most peaceful and happiest places in this bustling city. It provides peace and tranquility in the chaotic life of Kolkata. Kolkata is the birthplace of Sri Swami Prabhupada, the temple was the first ISKCON center in India, established in 1970. To this day, the temple is always filled with chants and bhajans from dozens of devotees who are deeply attracted by the beauty of the temple.
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Kolkata is one of the busiest cities in India. Overpopulation, busy life and pollution make the city monotonous and chaotic. These temples are a saviour for city dwellers who wish to break the monotony of ordinary life and wish for a moment of tranquility. Each of these temples is significant in its own way and offers devotees the opportunity to spend personal time with the gods. Although the temple is full of people, our hearts are filled with peace just by glimpses of the idols.