Kali Temple

    The Kalighat temple was built in 1809 on the site of an ancient temple. It is on the name of this temple that English gave the place name Calcutta which is anglicized form of Kalikata. The legend says that a finger of the Sati, wife of Lord Shiva, fell here. Since then it has been an important pilgrimage site. But the temple is dedicated to the destructive side of Shiva which takes the form of Kali. She requires sacrifice daily to satisfy her blood lust so every morning goats are sacrificed on the alter of the temple. The temple is busy through out the year and is surrounded by poor who come to have free meal. The Hospital for Dying Destitute by Mother Teresa is near the temple and every one is a welcome visitor here.




Belur Math

     The structure is similar to a temple, a mosque or a church depending on the way you look at it. The Architecture of the structure is very interesting. The math was established in 1899. The Ramkrishna mission established by the Swami Vivekanand has its head Quarters here. The Indian Philosopher Ramkrishna who preached unity among all the religions died in 1897 and his follower Vivekanand established the mission to preach the teachings of his Guru. This mission has branches all over the country. The headquarter of this international movement is Belur Math.

     Across the river is the Dakshineswar Kali temple. At this place Ramkrishna attained his spiritual enlightenment of unity among religions. The Kali temple is surrounded by 12 other temples dedicated to Siva. This temple was built in 1847.