Dhakeshwari Devi Temple, the national temple of Bangladesh, is the largest Hindu temple in Bangladesh. Dhakeshwari Devi is the incarnation of Adi Shakti Devi Durga. This temple is one of the 52 Shaktipeeths. It is believed that the gem of Sati's crown had fallen there. Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, was named after Goddess Dakeshwari (name of Goddess Durga). The Hindus of Bangladesh consider Devi Dhakeshwari as the presiding deity of Dhaka and thus they worship Adi Shakti at the Dhakeshwari Temple.
History and Architecture of Dhakeshwari Devi Temple
This temple is an inseparable part of the cultural heritage of Bangladesh. Dhakeshwari Temple is a divine masterpiece, where history, spirituality and beauty meet. The present presiding deity in the Dhakeshwari temple is a replica of the original idol. The goddess is Dasho Vuja (ten-handed). It is believed that the representation of the goddess is made of gold. Shiva Temple, Mansa Temple, Durga Temple and Kali Temple are also located inside this temple complex.
The temple was founded in the 12th century by a Hindu king named Ballal Sen, who was inspired to build the temple after seeing an idol of Goddess Durga buried in a particular part of the forest.
This temple was Pancharatno, it had the Natamandir in front and around it a row of rooms and a large pond and the Nahobotola gate through which elephants passed. To the east are the tombs of some saints who used to pray or meditate in the temple. There are 5-6 pagodas outside the temple, each with a Shivalinga. There are some other idols on the left and right sides of the goddess. Like many ancient temples, there is darkness inside it too.
In 1996, the Dhakeshwari Temple was renamed the Dhakeshwari Jatiya Mandir (National Temple), reflecting its status as a center of Hindu culture and worship in Bangladesh.
Dhakeshwari Devi Temple Darshan Timings
The temple remains open throughout the week and darshan timings are from 8 am to 7:30 pm.
Major festivals of Dhakeshwari Devi Temple
Dhakeshwari Temple is the center of Hindu socio-cultural and religious activities. Every year, the biggest celebration of Durga Puja in Dhaka is held at the National Temple. Janmashtami festival is also organized.
How to reach Dhakeshwari Devi Temple?
Dhakeshwari Devi Temple, the national temple is located in Dhaka, Bangladesh. One can visit the temple by train; Maitri Express runs five days a week. The train travels approximately 400 kilometers (250 mi) from Kolkata to reach Dhaka. The distance of Dhakeshwari National Temple from Dhaka International Airport is 18 km, so one can easily reach this place.
Dhakeshwari Devi Temple Experience
❀ Devotees come here in large numbers during Durga Puja and Pohela Boishakh (first day of Bengali New Year).
❀ The environment is very peaceful. All types of worship of Hindu culture take place here. There are also sweet shops with candles, lighters and many more. The peda sold for prasad here tastes good!
❀ The transport system is very good, rickshaws drop right in front of the temple.
Popular Name: Dhakeshwari Jatiya Mandir