Dhakeshwari Temple, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Dhakeshwari Temple is one of the oldest and most significant Hindu temples in Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Dhakeshwari, who is a form of the Hindu goddess Durga.

The exact date of the temple's construction is uncertain, but it is believed to have been built in the 12th century by Ballal Sen, a king of the Sena dynasty. The temple was destroyed during the Muslim conquest of Bengal in the 13th century and was later rebuilt in the 16th century by a wealthy merchant named Mukunda Das.

The temple has undergone several renovations and expansions over the centuries, and the current structure dates back to the early 1900s. The architecture of the temple is a blend of Hindu and Mughal styles, with intricate carvings, ornate domes, and spires. The temple complex also includes several other smaller temples dedicated to other deities, such as Lord Shiva and Lord Krishna.

Dhakeshwari Temple is not only a significant religious site for Hindus in Bangladesh but also an important cultural landmark in the country. The temple attracts a large number of devotees and visitors throughout the year, especially during festivals such as Durga Puja and Kali Puja.

Legend of Dhakeshwari Temple

There are different legends associated with Dhakeshwari Temple's origin and history. One of the most popular legends is that during the 12th century, the Sena dynasty's King Ballal Sen had a dream in which the goddess Dhakeshwari appeared to him and instructed him to build a temple in her honour. The goddess also revealed the location of a hidden idol that she wished to be worshipped.

The king followed the goddess's instructions and discovered the idol at the location indicated in his dream. He built the temple and installed the idol, which became the object of worship for the people of Dhaka.

Another legend states that during the 13th century, the temple was destroyed by the invading army of the Delhi Sultanate, and the idol was thrown into the nearby river. However, the idol was miraculously recovered and reinstalled in the temple by a group of devotees.

Over the centuries, Dhakeshwari Temple has undergone several renovations and reconstructions, including during the Mughal period and the British colonial era. Despite the temple's turbulent history, it has remained an important religious and cultural center for Hindus in Bangladesh and a symbol of the country's diverse heritage.

Puja timing of Dhakeshwari Temple

Dhakeshwari Temple in Dhaka follows a specific schedule for the daily puja rituals. The temple is open every day of the week, including weekends and public holidays, and the puja timings are as follows:

Morning:

• Mangal Aarati: 4:00 AM
• Shachipatra Aarati: 5:00 AM
• Bhog Aarati: 6:00 AM
• Shondhya Aarati: 7:00 AM
• Thakur Darshan: 7:30 AM

Afternoon:

• Bhog Aarati: 12:00 PM

Evening:

• Sandhya Aarati: 6:00 PM
• Ratri Shayan Aarati: 8:00 PM

The temple may also have special puja timings during festivals and other significant occasions, and the schedule may be subject to change. It is advisable to confirm the puja timings with the temple authorities before planning a visit.

How to visit of Dhakeshwari Temple

Dhakeshwari Temple is located in the old part of Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh. The temple is easily accessible by public transport, and visitors can take a taxi, rickshaw, or bus to reach the temple.

Here are some guidelines to help you plan your visit to Dhakeshwari Temple:

• Dress Code: Visitors to the temple are required to dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the main temple premises. It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing that covers your knees and shoulders.
• Photography: Photography is allowed inside the temple, but visitors are advised to seek permission before taking pictures of the idols and the temple architecture.
• Puja timings: As mentioned earlier, the temple follows specific puja timings, and visitors can plan their visit accordingly.
• Temple Etiquette: Visitors are expected to maintain silence inside the temple premises and respect the sentiments of the devotees. It is also recommended to avoid touching the idols and other objects of worship.
• Local Guides: Hiring a local guide is recommended for foreign visitors as they can provide useful information about the temple's history and traditions.

Overall, visiting Dhakeshwari Temple is a spiritual and cultural experience that offers insight into the rich heritage and traditions of Bangladesh's Hindu community.

How to go Dhakeshwari Temple

Dhakeshwari Temple is located in the old part of Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh. The temple is easily accessible by various means of transportation, and visitors can choose the most convenient option based on their location and preferences. Here are some ways to go to Dhakeshwari Temple:

• Taxi: Visitors can take a taxi to reach the temple from anywhere in Dhaka. Taxis are readily available and can be hired through ride-hailing apps or at designated taxi stands.
• Bus: Visitors can take a bus from different parts of the city to reach the temple. Several public and private buses operate on this route, and visitors can inquire about the bus timings and routes from the local bus terminals.
• Rickshaw: Visitors can also take a rickshaw to reach the temple. Rickshaws are a popular mode of transportation in Dhaka and are easily available in the city.
• Private Car: Visitors can also hire a private car or a driver to take them to the temple. This option may be more expensive than other modes of transportation, but it offers more comfort and convenience.

It is advisable to plan the trip to the temple in advance and confirm the route and fares with the driver or local authorities to avoid any confusion or inconvenience.

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