West Bengal’s Kiriteshwari Village: A Cultural Gem Blending Harmony and Architecture
West Bengal’s Kiriteshwari village has earned the prestigious title of “Best Tourism Village in India” from the Ministry of Tourism due to its remarkable communal harmony and unique religious architecture. Situated in the Murshidabad district of West Bengal, this quaint village is home to a relatively new red-and-white temple juxtaposed with the ruins of a thousand-year-old shrine, reclaimed by nature. What sets this village apart is its extraordinary blend of religious and architectural influences.
Murshidabad’s Kiriteshwari village awarded best tourism village of Indiahttps://t.co/AkeIKq732Q
— Siliguri Times (@SiliguriTimes) September 22, 2023
Kiriteshwari A Sacred Village
The village’s namesake, the Kiriteshwari temple, is one of the revered ‘Shakti peeths,’ believed to be where a part of the goddess Sati’s skull fell. Kiriteshwari village, also known as Kiritkona, is a tranquil hamlet nestled around 20 kilometres away from the district headquarters, Berhampur. It boasts a population of just over 1,200 residents primarily engaged in agriculture.
The Kiriteshwari village is a shining example of communal harmony. The temple committee includes members from the Muslim community who actively participate in various Hindu religious rituals and cultural activities. In a gesture of unity, Muslims have even donated land to the Hindus for temple use.
Temple Land Donation Legacy
Sirajul Islam, a member of the Kiriteshwari Temple Committee, shared, “My grandfather wanted to donate a piece of land for the temple, and that wish has been fulfilled. The paperwork was completed about two years ago.” Furthermore, the village hosts a grand feast on Ashtami during the Durga Puja festival, attracting thousands of participants, including many Muslim families.
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The Kiriteshwari temple, believed to be approximately 300 years old, was constructed during the reign of Rani Bhavani of Natore. It continues to host daily rituals, with repairs conducted around a century ago by Maharaja of Lalgola, Yogendra Narayan Roy. However, little is known about the neighbouring ancient temples, some believed to be dedicated to Lord Shiva.
What distinguishes the 300-year-old Kiriteshwari temple is its architectural fusion, featuring influences from Buddhist, Muslim, and Hindu styles. The sanctum sanctorum, where a black stone represents the goddess, showcases a harmonious blend of these architectural traditions.
A new feather to @TourismBengal .In the past few years Bengal has faced a new boom with a number of off-bit locations coming in the forefront.The temple #kiriteshwari & the entire village is a part of this award & we expect a lot more like this to come up.
Congratulations!!! https://t.co/POlRsB95x4— rajaonlinelive(Raja ) (@rajaonlinelive) September 22, 2023
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Kiriteshwari Thrives with Tourism
Since receiving recognition as the Best Tourism Village in India, Kiriteshwari village has witnessed an influx of tourists. Madan Mohan Mitra, a visitor from Kolkata, expressed his interest in the temple, driven by its recent accolade. Local villagers running small shops selling puja items near the temple, such as Hemanta Mondal, Paban Das, and Uttam Das, anticipate positive changes in their lives due to increased tourism. However, they also highlight the need for infrastructure development, including lodges, a hospital, and a police station.
The village currently offers limited lodging options, accommodating only a few pilgrims. Murshidabad District Magistrate Rajarshi Mitra acknowledges the village’s potential to become a thriving tourism hub. The state government has allocated funds for the restoration of the ancient ruins, further enhancing the appeal of this culturally rich destination.
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