Kantaji Temple, Dinajpur, Bangladesh | Kantaji Mondir। Kantajew Temple

Kantaji Temple (

শ্রী শ্রী জগন্নাথদেব জিউ মন্দির, 

Kantajew Temple), also known as the Kantanagar Temple, is a late-medieval Hindu temple located in Dinajpur, a district in northern Bangladesh. The temple is considered one of the most significant examples of terracotta Hindu temple architecture in the Indian subcontinent and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Kantaji Temple, Dinajpur, Picture- wikipedia

The Kantaji Temple was built during the late 18th century by Maharaja Pran Nath, a renowned patron of the arts and culture. The temple was dedicated to the Hindu god Krishna and was built in the Navaratna style, characterized by nine spires or shikharas. The temple's design and construction were influenced by the local Bengal style of temple architecture, as well as the Mughal and colonial architectural styles that were prevalent in the region at the time.

The temple's most striking feature is the intricate terracotta ornamentation that covers its exterior walls, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, folklore, and everyday life. The temple's terracotta panels are known for their high artistic and aesthetic value and are regarded as a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the local artisans of that era.

Over the centuries, the Kantaji Temple has undergone several renovations and restorations, including a major restoration effort in the 1980s by the Bangladesh government and UNESCO. Today, the temple remains an important cultural and religious center for the Hindu community in Bangladesh and a symbol of the country's rich cultural heritage.

Deities of Kantaji Temple

The Kantaji Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is worshipped here as the main deity. The temple complex consists of several other smaller temples and shrines dedicated to various deities, including:

• Radha - Radha, the consort of Lord Krishna, is worshipped in a separate shrine located within the temple complex.
• Shiva - The temple also houses a small shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the most important Hindu gods.
• Ganesh - Lord Ganesh, the remover of obstacles, is also worshipped in a small temple within the temple complex.
• Hanuman - The monkey god Hanuman, a popular deity in Hindu mythology, is also worshipped in a separate shrine in the temple complex.
• Various other deities - The temple complex also includes several smaller shrines and idols dedicated to other Hindu deities, such as Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and learning, and Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.

The Kantaji Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus in Bangladesh, who visit the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings from the deities.

Timing of worship at Kantaji Temple

The timing of worship at the Kantaji Temple may vary depending on the season and the specific day of the week. However, in general, the temple is open for worship from early morning to late evening.

The temple opens at around 7:00 am in the morning and remains open until around 6:00 pm in the evening. There is a break for about two hours in the afternoon when the temple remains closed for visitors. During this time, the priests perform special puja and rituals for the deities.

Visitors are advised to check the temple timings before planning a visit to the temple to ensure that they do not miss out on any of the important worship rituals or events. It is also important to dress appropriately and follow the temple's guidelines and rules while visiting the temple complex.

How to go Dinajpur to Kantaji Temple

Dinajpur is the nearest city to the Kantaji Temple and is located approximately 12 kilometers away. There are several modes of transportation available to reach the temple from Dinajpur:

• By Car/Taxi: The most convenient way to reach the Kantaji Temple is by hiring a car or taxi from Dinajpur. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes, and the road leading to the temple is in good condition.
• By Bus: Regular buses are available from Dinajpur to the town of Kantanagar, which is located near the temple. From there, visitors can take a short rickshaw ride or walk to the temple. The journey by bus takes around 45 minutes.
• By Train: The nearest railway station to the Kantaji Temple is at Dinajpur. From there, visitors can take a local bus or taxi to reach the temple.

Visitors are advised to check the timings and availability of buses and trains before planning a trip to the Kantaji Temple. It is also recommended to start the journey early in the morning to avoid the rush and ensure sufficient time for visiting the temple.

You May Like Also Also Like This