Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Kolkata

About Dakshineswar Kali Temple

Dakshineswar Kali Temple is located in Barrackpore, North Kolkata on the banks of the Hooghly River. It is a historical Hindu temple. The main deity of this temple is Bhavatarini who is the Hindu goddess Kali Mata. It is one of the most famous temples of Calcutta, and in many ways the most famous after Kalighat Temple. It was built in 1854 by Rani Rasmani of Jaan Bazar.

Architecture of Dakshineswar Kali Temple

Dakshineswar Kali Temple is spread over an area of 20 acres of land. The Dakshineswar temple was built in the traditional 'Nava-ratna' or nine peak style of Bengal architecture. This three-storey south-facing temple has nine spires in the upper two storeys, and stands on a high platform with stairs.

Interesting facts about Dakshineswar Kali Temple

1. Vivekananda's guru Ramakrishna Paramhansa also has a very close relationship with the Dakshineswar Kali Temple. It is believed that Ramakrishna Paramhansa had darshan of Dakshineswar Kali. Next to this temple is a room of Paramhans Dev. It has his bed and some souvenirs in it.
2. The idols were installed on the auspicious 'Snan-yatra' day of 31st May 1855.
3. This temple was built in 1847 during the British rule. The story related to the establishment of the temple is very exciting. Actually this temple was built by a queen whose name was Rani Rasmani. Maa Kali came in his dream and asked him to build this temple.
4. The construction work of the temple started in 1847 and after eight years its work was completed in 1855. This can be gauged from the grandeur of this temple.
5. After the construction of the temple, the Raj Purohit was entrusted with the responsibility of worshiping here. Ramakrishna was the royal priest of Paramhansa's elder brother Rani Rasmani and he brought his brother Paramhansa here with him.

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