Today, we’re heading to one of the most spiritually powerful and mysterious Shakti Peethas of India—Kankalitala Temple, located near Bolpur in the Birbhum district of West Bengal.
But what makes this sacred temple so unique among the 51 Shakti Peethas?
Is it really true that Goddess Sati’s waist—her kankal—fell right here, giving the place its name, Kankalitala?
Why is the sacred pond considered the most important place in the entire temple complex?
What’s the story behind the ancient vigraha of Shiva Bhagawan kept beneath this pond—and when is it taken out each year for darshan?
Who destroyed the original swayambhu Shiva Lingas of these temples?
And why do thousands of devotees hang stones on this ancient tree?
There are so many fascinating mysteries waiting to be uncovered…
So let’s dive into the divine world of Kankalitala Shakti Peetha.
In ancient times, this area was known as "Kanchidesh."
This temple faced many Islamic invasions, and later, several renovations were carried out.
There’s also a historical account involving Kalapahad, a man known for attacking many Hindu temples such as the Jagannath Temple in Puri, the Konark Sun Temple, and the Kamakhya Temple.
It is said that he also destroyed the original swayambhu Shiva Lingams of Ruru Bhairava and Kanchishwar here.
These lingams were huge and self-manifested, but Kalapahad broke their top portions.
Even today, the broken Shiva Lingas can still be seen inside these temples.
It is believed that when Sati Devi’s bones fell here, they hit the ground with such power that a hole was formed, which later filled with water and became this holy kund. The waist Portion of Goddess Sati still rests under the water. This pond is considered very sacred, and many devotees touch the water to their forehead for blessings.
Near the temple, there’s a sacred tree. Devotees tie red threads on small stones here while praying for wishes like childbirth or health.
Just like other Shakti Peethas, Kankalitala becomes very crowded during Durga Puja, Maha Shivaratri, and Kali Puja. The devotion and energy during these festivals is truly something to experience.
Inside, we can’t see any vigraha of Maa. Instead, there is a beautiful painting of the Goddess on a wooden structure placed over a peedham.
One of the most powerful spots here is the sacred pond, or kund, beside the temple. It is believed that when Sati’s bones fell here, they hit the ground with such power that a hole was formed, which later filled with water and became this holy kund. People believe that part of Goddess Sati still rests under the water. This pond is considered very sacred, and many devotees touch the water to their forehead for blessings.
Inside the temple complex, there’s a small shrine called Kanchishwar Temple, and a place called Harikath where animal offerings are made during some rituals. There’s also a smashan (cremation ground) nearby, which is common in powerful Shakti and Tantric sites. It represents life, death, and rebirth. You can also find samadhis of spiritual masters and Tantriks here.
Near the temple, there’s a sacred tree. Devotees tie red threads or small stones here while praying for wishes like childbirth or health. If the wish comes true, they come back and untie it.
The temple is very well maintained. In front of it, there’s a beautiful natmandapa where people can sit, meditate, and feel the energy of the place. On the way to the temple, you’ll find many small shops selling puja samagri (ritual items).
Just like other Shakti Peethas, Kankalitala becomes very crowded during Durga Puja, Maha Shivaratri, and Kali Puja. The devotion and energy during these festivals is truly something to experience.
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