Kolkata – The Shakti Peetha City of Maa Kali

Known as the gateway to Eastern India, Kolkata is a city that carries within itself many historical stories and cultural traditions. Once the economic capital of India, Kolkata also holds immense religious significance.

The city is home to one of the 52 Shakti Peethas, the sacred Kalighat Shakti Peetha, dedicated to Maa Kali. Let us explore the famous religious, historical, and cultural attractions of Kolkata.

Mythological Significance of Jai Kali Kalkatte Wali

According to Hindu mythology, when Prajapati Daksha insulted Lord Shiva, Goddess Sati sacrificed herself by entering the holy fire of the yajna (havan).

After this incident, Lord Shiva became furious and ordered Veerabhadra to punish Prajapati Daksha. Later, Lord Shiva carried the body of Goddess Sati and began performing the Tandava dance. Due to this cosmic dance, the balance of creation started getting disturbed.

Seeing this, all the gods requested Lord Vishnu to save the universe. Lord Vishnu then used his Sudarshan Chakra to cut Goddess Sati’s body into pieces.

It is believed that the toe of Sati’s right foot fell in Kolkata, which led to the establishment of one of the 52 Shakti Peethas here.

The unique feature of Kalighat Kali Temple is the large golden tongue of Goddess Kali, which symbolizes her divine power and presence. Popular beliefs and sayings such as "Jai Kali Kalkatte Wali, Tera Vachan Na Jaye Khali" are associated with the glory and blessings of Maa Kali.

Places to Visit in Kolkata

Apart from the Kalighat Shakti Peetha, Kolkata has many religious, historical, and cultural attractions. Some of the major places include:

Kalighat Temple
Kali Temple
Fort William
Victoria Memorial
Belur Math
Mother Teresa Homes

Kalighat Shakti Peetha

An area of Kolkata itself is named after the famous Kalighat Shakti Peetha, one of the 52 sacred Shakti Peethas.

The idol installed at this temple was consecrated by Kamdev Brahmachari. According to beliefs, this place became a Shakti Peetha because the four fingers of Goddess Sati’s right foot fell here.

Today, Kalighat Temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for devotees of Maa Kali.

The idol of Goddess Kali here represents her fierce form. The Goddess has a golden tongue extending outward, stands with one foot on Lord Shiva’s chest, and wears a garland of skulls. She is depicted holding a sword and severed heads in her hands.

Maa Kali Temple

The Maa Kali Temple is located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River. At one time, Swami Ramakrishna Paramahansa served as the priest of this temple.

It is believed that he experienced the realization of unity among all religions at this very place.

The temple houses an idol of Maa Kali. According to Hindu scriptures, Goddess Kali is considered a form of Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva.

The present temple was constructed in 1809 at the site of the earlier temple.

Belur Math

Belur Math is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission. It was established in 1899 by Swami Vivekananda.

The architecture of Belur Math represents a beautiful blend of Hindu, Muslim, and Christian architectural styles. This unique design reflects the message of religious harmony and the principle of equal respect for all faiths.

Fort William

Fort William is located near the Hooghly River and is one of the important historical landmarks of Kolkata.

The surrounding ground covers an area of approximately 3 square kilometers, and the fort is situated on its western side.

Since Fort William is currently used by the Indian Army, special permission is required for entry.

Victoria Memorial

The Victoria Memorial was constructed between 1906 and 1921 and is dedicated to Queen Victoria.

This magnificent monument is considered an excellent example of architectural beauty. Its Mughal-style domes showcase influences of Indo-Saracenic and Renaissance architectural styles.

The memorial also houses a grand museum displaying various historical objects, including Queen Victoria’s piano and other artifacts.