This holy site is also popularly known as the Bakreshwar Shakti Peetha. It is located in the tranquil village of Bakreshwar in the Birbhum district of West Bengal. Nestled on the serene banks of the Paphra River is a beautiful and powerful place that one must visit to experience its profound spiritual ambience.
Mahishmardini Shakti Peetha is the sacred pilgrimage site beloved by devotees. It is the place of the sacred union of Shakti and Shiva. Devi Mahishmardini is the presiding deity of the temple, while Lord Shiva is worshiped as Vakranath.
It is the place where the space between the eyebrows has fallen and is considered one of the 51 Shakti Peethas.
Sthala Purana of Mahishmardini Shakti Peetha
His anger was so fierce that his nerves twisted into eight folds, earning him the name Ashtavakra. Later, the sage regretted his act. The sage went to Kashi to pray to Lord Vishwanatha to overcome his weak emotions like anger.
Later, the sage traveled to Gupta Kashi and performed tapas. Then he moved to a place called Bakreshwar, where he performed tapas for ten thousand years to please Lord Shiva and appeared before him and granted him a boon that the sage would be worshiped first before him. Only after worshiping sage Ashtavakra, it is possible to obtain the grace of Lord Shiva.
Due to His grace on the sage Ashtavakra, Lord Mahadeva came to be called Bakreshwar or Vakreshwar. The term “vakra” means “bent,” and “Ishwara” means “Lord Shiva.”
At the request of Lord Mahadeva, the celestial architect Vishwakarma constructed this temple.
Architecture of Mahishmardini Shakti Peetha
The hallmarks of traditional Odisha temples, like intricate carvings, domes, and spire-like structures, are often seen in typical Odisha temples.
This temple also blends with Bengali-style architecture, like elaborate carvings, domes, and spires.
Inside the temple complex, there are seven kundas, which have therapeutic properties. It possesses medicinal values that cure ailments. The seven kundas are Khar Kunda, Bhairav Kunda, Agni Kunda, Dudh Kunda, Surya Kunda, Brahma Kunda, and Amrita Kunda. Beside each kundas, there are Shiva Lingas found.
Festivals Celebrated at Mahishamardini Shakti Peetha
Maha Shivaratri: It is celebrated with great splendor, as the temple is closely linked with Bhairav Vakranath, a form of Lord Shiva.
Bakreshwar Mela: A lively annual fair in the temple town that attracts large gatherings of devotees and showcases traditional cultural activities.
Poush Mela: It is held during the Bengali month of Poush (December–January), marked by local traditions and festive spirit.
Kali Puja & Other Fairs: Special observances are conducted for kali puja, along with fairs during occasions like makar sankranti and dharmaraj puja, adding to the region’s vibrant cultural calendar.
Temple Timing of Mahishamardini Shakti Peetha
Morning: 6:30 AM to 1:00 PM
Evening: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Best Time to Visit
Nearby Places to Visit
Bakreshwar Hot Spring: It is famous for its naturally occurring thermal springs, believed to have healing properties. Visitors often bathe in the warm waters, which remain hot throughout the year due to geothermal activity.
Fullara Maa Shakti Peetha: It is one of the sacred Shakti Peetha’s where the lip part of Goddess Sati is said to have fallen. It holds immense religious significance and is a major center of devotion for followers of Shakti worship.
How to Reach Mahishmardini Shakti Peetha
By Railway: Prantik Railway Station is the nearest railway station to reach the temple.
By Road: The nearest bus stop to reach the temple is Bakreshwar bus stop, located 1.5 km away from the temple.
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