Goddess Kali is the prime deity of West Bengal. Here people greatly believe in Kali or Durga and hence there are many temples dedicated to her. The Kalighat Kali Temple in Kolkata is also one of the prominent temples.
Significance Behind the Name
It is said that the name Kolkata is derived from the Kalighat temple. Yes, Kalighat Temple on the banks of River Hoogly is one among the prime goddess temples in Kolkata.
Kalighat Temple
PC: Giridhar Appaji Nag Y
History of Kalighat Kali Temple
The structure of the present temple is around 200 years old. It was built by a reputed family of the city. The descendents of the family are said to be managing the temple even to this day. Though the current building is not ancient temple, the shrine is mentioned in several ancient literary works. Hence, it is believed that Kalighat Kali Temple existed as a small shrine before it was built on a large scale.
Shakti Peetha
According to the legend, Sati's toes of the right foot fell at this place during Rudra Tandava. Hence Kalighat Kali Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India.
Inside Kali Temple Complex
PC: Jonathen abhi
Location
Kalighat Kali Temple is located on the banks of Hoogly river. However, the Hoogly river has moved away over time. Now a canal named Adi Ganga which connects to Hoogly river is near the temple. It is called as Adi Ganga because this canal is said to be the source of Hoogly River.
Kalighat Kali Temple Complex
Apart from the main temple, there are many other shrines inside Kalighat Kali Temple. Natmondir, Jor Bangla (a verandah facing the god), Sosthi Tala, Radha-Krishna Mandir, Harkath Tala (a hall for religious discourses) and Kundupukur (temple pond) are some of the places inside Kalighat Kali Temple Complex.
Kalighat Kali Temple
PC: Sankarrukku
Temples near Kalighat Kali Temple
Dakshineshwar Kali is around 30km from Kalighat Kali Temple. Nakhuleshwar Mahadev Temple is situated in the opposite road of Kalighat Kali Temple.
How to Reach Kalighat Kali Temple
Kalighat Kali Temple is located around 10km from Howrah Bridge in Kolkata. It is easily accessible by metro or cab. Kalighat Metro Station and Jatin Das Park metro station are the nearest to reach Kalighat Kali Temple.
How To Reach Kolkata
Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is a vibrant city rooted in its culture. It is a bliss to explore this beautiful city.
Click - How to Reach Kolkata