Kali temple being constructed in Digha modeled on Dkashineshwar shrine

Following the recent inauguration of the grand Jagannath temple in Digha, East Medinipur district is set to welcome another significant religious structure – a Kali temple meticulously designed on the lines of Kolkata's famed Dakshineshwar Temple. This development promises to enhance the region's appeal as a spiritual destination.

This impressive new temple, named the Shantishwari Kali Temple, is taking shape in the Pratapdighi market area, located approximately 45 kilometers from the Digha Jagannath temple. Being constructed within an area of 450 square feet, the temple complex will not only house the primary deity, Maa Shantishwari Kali, but will also feature revered idols of Thakur Ramakrishna Paramahansa and Mata Sharada Devi.

Bhargvendra Nath Jana, the President of the Temple Trust Committee, elaborated on the inspiration behind the project. "A deep religious sentiment is associated with the Dakshineshwar Kali Temple," he explained. "That is why this temple of Shantishwari Maa was envisioned and built in its likeness. Now, the residents of the Digha area and visitors will have the opportunity to experience the spiritual ambiance akin to Dakshineshwar Temple right here."

The history of Kali worship in Pratapdighi dates back around seven decades. According to local legend, a saint named Laxminarayan Das initiated the first Kali Puja in this market area, which falls under the Patashpur region of East Medinipur. At that time, the worship took place in a simple thatched house with mud walls, where the saint worshipped a clay idol of Maa Shantishwari Kali.

As Saint Laxminarayan Das advanced in age, he found himself unable to continue the daily rituals and appointed a priest to carry on the worship. After the saint's passing, the local community, along with the appointed priest, took over the responsibility of maintaining the humble temple. Over the years, the temple gained popularity, attracting a large number of devotees and becoming a center for local festivals.