Kalighat Temple: Know everything about this famous and miraculous temple of Kali Mata located in Kolkata
Kalighat Temple: Dedicated to the goddess Kali, Kalighat Kali Temple is a well-known Hindu temple situated in Kolkata, West Bengal. It has great spiritual importance and draws followers from all over the globe, making it one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. Although its present edifice was constructed in the 19th century, the temple has centuries-old roots. The temple is still a popular destination for pilgrims in India because of its colorful ceremonies and ancient appeal. Kalighat Temple (Kali Mata Mandir), a well-known Hindu temple in Kolkata, West Bengal, is devoted to the Goddess Kali. Located on the Hooghly River in Kolkata, the Kalighat Temple is a revered ghat. The temple receives visitors from all across the nation who come to seek the goddess’ graces.
The gold idol features four hands, three eyes, and a lengthy tongue. Additionally, the temple has a holy pond called “Kundupukur” that is situated in the complex’s southeast corner. This pond’s water is revered on par with the Ganges. The blessing of a child is said to be bestowed by the water. Lord Shiva is represented by Nakuleshwar, while Goddess Sati is represented by Kalika. Let us tell you the locations and histories of Kali Maa’s well-known temples in India if you are a devotee and want to visit them.
The Kalighat Temple’s Mysteries
Legend has it that the right toe of Goddess Sati landed here when Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshan Chakra to cut her body into 51 pieces. This action was taken by Lord Vishnu to protect the cosmos from Lord Shiva’s anger.
Another well-known myth is that a devotee once saw a dazzling ray of light coming from the Bhagirath River. He located a chunk of stone that resembled a human toe after identifying the light. He discovered a linga of Nakuleshwar Bhairava nearby. He began worshiping these idols in the jungle after putting them in a little shrine. As the temple’s fame increased over time, the Kalighat temple became more well-known.
A picture of Kali
This temple’s Kali picture is distinct. It doesn’t have the same style as other Bengali Kali pictures. Brahmananda Giri and Atmaram Giri, two saints, built the current touchstone idol. It has four hands, three enormous eyes, and a long, projecting tongue made of gold. A decapitated skull and a sword are held in two of these hands. The human head represents the human ego, which must be destroyed by divine knowledge in order for one to be saved, while the sword represents heavenly wisdom. Since the other two hands are in the Abhaya and Varada mudra, or blessing, her initiated devotees—or anyone who worships her sincerely—will be saved as she leads them both here on Earth and in the next.
Kalighat Kali Temple’s Religious Significance
• One of the holiest sites in Hinduism is the Kalighat Kali Temple, which is said to contain a potent incarnation of the goddess Kali.
• The temple, which is devoted to Goddess Kali, is revered as a location where followers may seek blessings, protection, and freedom.
• The temple is a significant hub for Tantric worship and rituals and has great spiritual potency.
The Kalighat Kali Temple Legend
The fingers of Goddess Sati’s right foot fell in Kalighat, one of the revered Shakti Peethas, during Lord Shiva’s Tandava, according to folklore. The location is said to represent heavenly feminine power, benefitting followers. The temple’s idol, Goddess Kali, is revered as a strong guardian and is said to have manifested herself. Numerous saints and sages are said to have traveled to Kalighat in pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.
Hours of Kalighat Kali Temple and the Schedule for Aarti
Temple Hours
- 5:00 am to 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm to 10:30 pm are the daily hours of operation.
- Morning Aarti: Commences at five in the morning.
- At 6:30 p.m., the evening aarti begins.
- Festivals: During festivals and auspicious days, certain customs and timings are followed.
How to Get to Kali Temple in Kalighat
Through Metro
The closest station is Kalighat Metro Station (Blue Line), which is just a short walk from the temple.
By bus
Major areas of Kolkata are connected to Kalighat by regular buses.
By Train
The closest significant railway hubs are Sealdah and Howrah Railway Stations, from which local transportation may be taken to the shrine.
By Air
Taxis and app-based taxis are available to go to the temple from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, which is about 20 km away.
The Ideal Season to See Kalighat Kali Temple
The months of October through March are the greatest times to visit Kalighat Kali Temple because of Kolkata’s beautiful weather, which is perfect for outdoor activities. Major celebrations like Durga Puja and Kali Puja take place around this time, which heightens the spiritual fervor. To escape the throng and have a calm darshan, it is best to get up early.
Kalighat Kali Temple festivals
- The most significant event, Kali Puja, is observed with elaborate ceremonies and unique tributes to the goddess Kali.
- Durga Puja: A significant festival held over the nine days of Navratri when the temple is packed with worshippers.
- Diwali: This holiday, which is marked by special prayers and lights, heightens the atmosphere of spirituality.
- Poila Boishakh: Devotees ask for blessings for success and wealth on the occasion of the Bengali New Year.