Dhakeshwari Temple – An Ancient Hindu Temple in Bangladesh
Dhakeshwari Temple, located in Dhaka, Bangladesh, is one of the most ancient and important Hindu temples in the region. It is considered to be the national temple of Bangladesh and is a symbol of the nation’s religious and cultural heritage. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Dhakeshwari, a form of the Hindu Goddess Durga. It is believed that the temple was built in the 12th century by Ballal Sen, a king of the Sena dynasty.
History and Significance of Dhakeshwari Temple
Dhakeshwari Temple has a long and rich history. According to some records, it was originally built in the 12th century by Ballal Sen. However, many historians believe that it was built much earlier, probably in the 8th century. It has been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries. During the Mughal period, the temple was damaged by Muslim invaders. The British later renovated the temple in the 19th century.
The temple is of great religious and cultural significance to the people of Bangladesh. It is also a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus from all over the world. It is believed that the temple enshrines an image of the Hindu Goddess Durga, making it a sacred place of worship for Hindus. Every year, on the day of Durga Puja, thousands of devotees gather at the temple to celebrate the festival.
Architecture of Dhakeshwari Temple
The architecture of Dhakeshwari Temple is a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles. The main temple is constructed in a typical Bengali style, with a large dome and several smaller towers or spires. The walls of the temple are covered with intricate carvings and sculptures. The temple also has several other smaller temples and shrines dedicated to different Hindu gods and goddesses.
The temple complex also includes a large pond, known as the Dhakeshwari Pond. This pond is said to have been dug by Ballal Sen himself to provide water for the temple.
Festivities at Dhakeshwari Temple
Dhakeshwari Temple is a popular destination for religious festivals and celebrations. Every year, the temple celebrates a number of festivals, including Durga Puja, Janmashtami, and Shivratri. During these festivals, the temple is decorated with lights and flowers and devotees from all over the world come to offer their prayers.
Apart from religious festivals, the temple also hosts a number of cultural events, such as music and dance performances. The temple also organizes a number of charitable events, such as free medical camps and food distribution.
Visiting Dhakeshwari Temple
Dhakeshwari Temple is open to visitors from dawn to dusk. Visitors are asked to dress modestly and follow the temple’s rules and regulations. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple premises.
Located in the heart of Dhaka city, Dhakeshwari Temple is easy to reach by public transport. The nearest airport is Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, located about 13km away. The nearest railway station is Kamalapur Railway Station, located about 5km away.
Dhakeshwari Temple is one of the most important Hindu temples in Bangladesh. The temple is a symbol of the nation’s cultural and religious heritage and is a popular pilgrimage destination for devotees from all over the world. It is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the history and culture of Bangladesh.