Are you looking for a place to experience the rich culture and heritage of Kolkata? Do you want to witness the stunning beauty and craftsmanship of a temple that blends tradition and modernity? If yes, then you should not miss visiting Birla Mandir Kolkata, one of the most magnificent temples in the city. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about this temple, such as its history, architecture, features, timings, address, and images. We will also give you some tips and trivia to make your visit more enjoyable and memorable. Read on to find out why Birla Mandir Kolkata is a must-see attraction for anyone who loves art, culture, and spirituality.
History of Birla Mandir Kolkata
Birla Mandir Kolkata is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and his consort Radha. It was built by the Birla family, one of the most prominent industrialist and philanthropist families in India. The construction of the temple started in 1970 and took 26 years to complete. It was inaugurated by Swami Chidananda Saraswati, the president of the Ramakrishna Mission, on 21 February 1996.
The temple has witnessed the visits of many eminent personalities, such as Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and Pranab Mukherjee. The temple is also known as Lakshmi Narayan Mandir, as it houses the idols of Lord Vishnu and his consort Lakshmi, along with other deities, such as Shiva, Durga, Hanuman, and Ganesha.
Architecture of Birla Mandir Kolkata
Birla Mandir Kolkata is a masterpiece of architecture that showcases the fusion of traditional and modern elements. The temple is built with white marble from Rajasthan, and covers an area of 44 katha (approximately 0.66 acres). The temple has a height of 160 feet, and is adorned with intricate carvings, chandeliers, and paintings. The temple’s design is inspired by the Lingaraj Temple of Bhubaneswar, the Somnath Temple of Gujarat, and the Konark Temple of Odisha. The temple’s interior is decorated with silver and Belgian glass. The temple has four main chambers, each housing the idols of different gods and goddesses.
The main chamber has the idols of Krishna and Radha, made of Italian marble, and surrounded by 12 other idols representing the 12 zodiac signs. The second chamber has the idols of Vishnu and Lakshmi, along with their incarnations, such as Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, Hanuman, Krishna, and Balarama. The third chamber has the idols of Shiva and Parvati, along with their sons, Ganesha and Kartikeya. The fourth chamber has the idols of Durga and Saraswati, along with other goddesses, such as Lakshmi, Kali, and Annapurna.
Features of Birla Mandir Kolkata
Birla Mandir Kolkata is not only a place of worship, but also a place of attraction and enjoyment. The temple offers many features and attractions for the visitors, such as:
Evening Aarti:
The temple conducts a grand evening aarti (prayer ceremony) every day at 6:30 pm, which is a sight to behold. The temple is illuminated with lights and candles, and the sound of bells, conch shells, and chants fills the air. The devotees sing and dance along with the priests, and offer flowers, fruits, and sweets to the deities. The aarti is a way of expressing gratitude and devotion to the gods, and seeking their blessings and protection.
Janmashtami Festival:
The temple celebrates the birthday of Lord Krishna, known as Janmashtami, with great pomp and fervor. The festival falls on the eighth day of the dark fortnight of the Hindu month of Bhadra (usually in August or September). The temple is decorated with flowers, balloons, and flags, and the idols of Krishna and Radha are dressed in new clothes and ornaments. The devotees throng the temple to offer prayers, sing bhajans (devotional songs), and perform dances and dramas depicting the life and deeds of Krishna. The highlight of the festival is the breaking of the dahi handi (earthen pot filled with curd), which symbolizes the childhood mischief of Krishna, who used to steal butter from the pots of the cowherds.
Serene Atmosphere:
The temple is a place of peace and tranquility, where one can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in the lap of nature. The temple is surrounded by lush green lawns, gardens, and fountains, which add to its beauty and charm. The temple also has a panoramic view of the city, especially at night, when the lights of the buildings and bridges create a mesmerizing effect. The temple is a place where one can meditate, pray, or simply admire the beauty and grandeur of the temple and its surroundings.
Tips and Trivia for Visiting Birla Mandir Kolkata
To make your visit to Birla Mandir Kolkata more enjoyable and memorable, here are some tips and trivia for you:
The temple is open from 5:30 am to 11:00 am and from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm every day. The best time to visit the temple is during the evening aarti or the Janmashtami festival, when the temple is at its most lively and colorful.
The temple is located at 29, Ashutosh Chowdhury Avenue, Ballygunge, Kolkata, West Bengal 700019. The temple is easily accessible by public transport, such as buses, taxis, or metro. The nearest metro station is Kalighat, which is about 2 km away from the temple.
The temple does not charge any entry fee, but donations are welcome. The temple also provides free prasad (sacred food) to the devotees after the aarti. The temple has a cloakroom, where one can keep their belongings, such as shoes, bags, or umbrellas, for a nominal charge.
The temple has a strict dress code, which requires the visitors to wear modest and decent clothes, covering their shoulders, knees, and chest. The temple also prohibits photography, videography, smoking, drinking, or eating inside the premises. The temple expects the visitors to maintain silence, cleanliness, and respect inside the temple.
The temple is close to many other attractions and places of interest in Kolkata, such as the Victoria Memorial, the Howrah Bridge, the Park Street, and the Indian Museum. The temple is also near to many restaurants, cafes, and shops, where one can enjoy the local cuisine, such as the rosogolla (sweet cheese ball), the kathi roll (stuffed flatbread), and the puchka (spicy water-filled snack).
The temple is a source of inspiration and pride for the people of Kolkata, as it represents the city’s culture, heritage, and spirituality. The temple is also a symbol of harmony and unity, as it welcomes people of all faiths, backgrounds, and walks of life. The temple is a place where one can experience the true essence of Kolkata, the City of Joy.