KALNA - SIVA TEMPLE GROUP

The Gopbhum region of the Burdwan district is rich in Saivism and temple worship. Though there are temples for Sakti and Vaishnavate gods, the temples dedicated to Siva have characteristic local colour that set them apart from others. They were built by the Maharaja Taj Chandra Bahadur. Their speciality lies in the constructional pattern, first and last. They are hundred and eight in number and are arranged in concentric circles; the outer one consisting of 66, enshrining black and white lingams installed alternately; whereas in the inner circle there are 42 temples, each with a black stone linga only. They are built close to one another except for passage to go from one to another. Each of the temples is provided with a circular domed cell and a pedestal in the centre for the linga. The Tantric scriptures enjoin the worship of 108 phallic emblems of Siva at one place and it has mystic significance, believed to be productive of great religious merit. It ensures special merits, like the warding off the adorer from loss of caste, social degradation, extinction of race, and fatal disease too. Belief, besides giving relief momentary assures them with carefree earthly existence. Hence building by the royalty for their own safety and public prosperity in this odd style.

There are temples here also dedicated to Krishna and others testifying to the religious tolerance and magnanimity of the kings. They contain all the parts with gods for worship in the traditional method.

They lie at Kalna, a big town and the headquarters town of the same name commanding all transport facilities.

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