Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple Guide

Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas located in Ishwaripur, Bangladesh. It is one of the famous ancient Hindu temples dedicated to the goddess Kali in Bangladesh. It is believed that Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple is older than the 13th century, but there is no proper evidence. It is said there were 100 doors to the temple, and as time passed temple crumbled. In the later period of the 13th century, during the reign of Laxman Sen and Pratap Aditya, the temple was renovated.

As per the mythology of Daksha yagna and goddess Sati’s self-immolation, “Palms of hands and soles of the feet” fell at this place. Legend of the temple says General of Maharaja Pratapaditya happened to see bright light glowing from bushes he found it was coming from a piece of stone which is in the shape of a human palm. In a later period, Pratapaditya started worshiping the goddess Kali and built a temple for Jeshoreshwari Kali.

Irrespective of religion thousands of devotees come to this pilgrimage and worship goddess. It is said before 1971 there was a large rectangular platform called with the name Natmondir adjacent to the main temple. It is believed that there face of Jessoreswari Kali can be viewed directly. But as time passed it crumbled and only pillars remained. Also prior to 1971, temple priests used to worship deities every day but now priests worship only every Tuesday and Saturday at noon time. Present caretakers of the temple perform Mela during the day of Kali puja every year. 

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Story of Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple:

According to Hindu mythology, Sati was the daughter of King Daksha and the consort of Lord Shiva. King Daksha did not approve of Sati’s marriage to Shiva, and he performed a yagna without inviting Shiva. Sati was invited to the yagna, but she was humiliated by her father and his guests. In her anger and despair, Sati threw herself into the yagna fire and died.

When Shiva learned of Sati’s death, he became enraged. He carried her body on his shoulders and danced the Tandava dance, destroying everything in his path. The other gods were terrified of Shiva’s rage, and they begged Vishnu to intervene. Vishnu used his Sudarshana Chakra to dismember Sati’s body, which fell to earth in 51 different places.

The Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple is believed to be the place where Sati’s palm fell. The temple was built by Raja Pratapaditya, a Hindu king who ruled Jessore in the 16th century.

The Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus from all over the world. The temple is also visited by people of other faiths, who come to seek the blessings of the goddess Kali.

The temple is surrounded by a beautiful garden, and there is a large pond located nearby. Visitors to the temple can take a boat ride on the pond, or simply relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.

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Specialty of Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple:

Here are some of the specialties of the Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple:

• It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, which are sacred places where the body parts of the goddess Sati fell after her self-immolation.
• The temple is dedicated to the goddess Kali, who is one of the most popular and powerful Hindu deities.
• The temple is believed to have been built in the 16th century, and is a fine example of Hindu architecture.
• The temple houses a black stone idol of Kali, which is said to be very powerful and miraculous.
• The Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus from all over the world. It is also a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful architecture and its peaceful atmosphere.

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Places to visit near Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple:

Sundarbans Mangrove Forest: The Sundarbans is the largest mangrove forest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s known for its unique ecosystem, Bengal tigers, diverse wildlife, and natural beauty. You can take boat tours from nearby towns like Khulna to explore the Sundarbans.

Satkhira Town: Satkhira is the nearest major town to Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple. You can explore the local culture, visit markets, and sample local cuisine in Satkhira. It’s also a good place to arrange transportation to other nearby attractions.

Durga Sagar: Durga Sagar is a large pond near the temple, and it’s considered a sacred site for devotees. It’s a serene place to visit and offers a peaceful atmosphere for contemplation.

Karamjal Wildlife Center: This wildlife center is located in the Sundarbans and is home to various animal species, including crocodiles and spotted deer. It’s a great place for wildlife enthusiasts and offers boat tours to observe the local fauna.

Bhomra Land Port: This is one of the land ports connecting Bangladesh and India. While you can’t enter India from here without the necessary permits, it’s interesting to see the border area and the activities at the land port.

Sarongkhola: Sarongkhola is a small town near Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple, and it’s known for its serene natural beauty. The town is located on the banks of the Sarongkhola River, and it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the countryside.

Sundarban Reserve Forest Office: If you plan to explore the Sundarbans, you may need to visit the Sundarban Reserve Forest Office to obtain necessary permits and information about the forest.

Chadpai Range Office: Another entry point to the Sundarbans, the Chadpai Range Office is where you can arrange boat tours into the forest and get information about the area’s wildlife.

Mongla Port: Mongla is a port town near the Sundarbans, and you can visit the port area and explore the local culture and lifestyle.

FAQ:

Where is Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple located?

The Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple is situated in the Ishwaripur village of Shyamnagar Upazila, Satkhira district, in southwestern Bangladesh, near the border with India.

What is the significance of Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple?

This temple is considered one of the Shakti Peethas, believed to be the site where the goddess Sati’s lips fell after her body was dismembered by Lord Shiva’s Tandava dance. It is a place of great religious significance for Hindus.

How do I reach Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple?

To reach the temple, you can travel to Satkhira district by train, bus, or car. From Satkhira, you can hire a local vehicle to take you to Ishwaripur, where the temple is located.

Is the temple open to tourists and pilgrims?

Yes, the Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple is open to both tourists and pilgrims. However, it’s a religious site, so visitors should be respectful of the customs and traditions. It’s a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus.

What are the temple’s visiting hours?

The temple typically opens in the morning and closes in the evening. Specific visiting hours may vary, so it’s a good idea to check in advance or ask locally for the most up-to-date information.

Are there any specific rules or dress code for visitors?

Visitors are expected to dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the temple premises, as is common in Hindu temples. It’s also advisable to be respectful and considerate of the religious nature of the site.

Is there an entry fee to the temple?

Most Hindu temples in Bangladesh do not charge an entry fee. However, you may find donation boxes where you can contribute to the maintenance of the temple.

What is the best time to visit Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple?

The temple can be visited throughout the year, but it’s advisable to check the weather and plan your visit accordingly. Many devotees visit during special Hindu festivals and during the Navaratri festival dedicated to the goddess Kali.

Is there accommodation available near the temple?

There are limited accommodation options near the temple. It’s recommended to arrange your stay in Satkhira or the nearby towns and then travel to the temple for a visit.

Can non-Hindus visit Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple?

Yes, non-Hindus are generally welcome to visit the temple. However, it’s important to be respectful of the religious practices and beliefs of the devotees.

How to reach Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple:

1. Arrive in Dhaka or Nearby City: If you’re traveling from outside Bangladesh, your journey will likely begin in Dhaka, the capital city. Arrive in Dhaka via the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.
2. Travel to Khulna: The nearest major city to Satkhira is Khulna. You can reach Khulna from Dhaka by various means, such as domestic flights, buses, or trains. The train journey is quite scenic and comfortable, and you can take a train from Kamalapur Railway Station in Dhaka to Khulna. The journey takes approximately 9-10 hours by train.
3. Khulna to Satkhira: From Khulna, you will need to travel to Satkhira, where the Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple is situated. You can do this by road, taking a bus or hiring a car. The journey from Khulna to Satkhira is approximately 2-3 hours by road, depending on traffic and road conditions.
4. Reaching the Temple: Once you arrive in Satkhira, you can hire a local vehicle, like a rickshaw or a CNG (auto-rickshaw), to take you to the Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple. The temple is located in the nearby Shyamnagar Upazila.
5. Temple Visit: Upon reaching the temple complex, you can explore the Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple and its surroundings. The temple is known for its cultural and religious significance and is a place of worship for devotees of the goddess Kali.

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