Kankalitala Shakti Peetha, Birbhum

Deeply rooted in ancient history, unwavering faith, and profound devotion, Goddess Kali is worshipped here as Kankaleshwari or Devagarbha, while Lord Mahadeva is venerated as Ruru Bhairava. It is the place where the skeletal part of waist (Kankal) of Sati Devi fell and is regarded as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas.

Located on the tranquil banks of the sacred river Kopai, this sacred abode of divine feminine energy is tucked in the small Kankalitala village, Birbhum district of West Bengal. The goddess is known for performing many miracles, curing ailments, removing obstacles, and granting success.

Since the skeletal part from the waist of the goddess Sati Devi fell at this site, it is known as Kankali Shakti Peetha.

Alternatively, an image or photo of the goddess Kali is placed on the stone altar and worshiped.

The garbhagriha of the temple is modest with a low roof design, enriching the divine ambience of the temple. There is a small prayer hall in front of the temple, where devotees stand and pray to the goddess. White Marble flooring enhances the temple’s splendor.

The garbhagriha of the temple is modest, featuring a low-roof design that enriches the divine ambience of the shrine. A small prayer hall stands in front of the temple, where devotees gather to offer prayers to the Goddess. White marble flooring further enhances the temple’s splendor.

Adjacent to the temple is a pond that marks the exact spot where the skeletal part fell. Five Shiva lingas are immersed inside this tank, and it is taken out only once a year, on the day of the Gajan festival.

Charak Festival: It is also known as Batri Charak, Nila Puja, and Gajan Puja, and takes place in the month of Chaitra. It is the last month in the Bengali calendar.

Gajan Festival: It is a major festival celebrated in West Bengal, beginning weeks before Chaitra Sankranti and concluding on Charak Puja. Sanyasis participate in this festival and perform intense practices such as tongue piercing, walking on thorns, and fire rituals, expressing their devotion to Lord Shiva and Dharmathakur.

Also, festivals such as Navaratri, Makara Sankranti, Holi, Diwali, and Shivaratri are celebrated with deep devotion and faith. Special occasions like Sharad Purnima and Kaushi Amavasya are also observed with great joy and reverence.

Bakreshwar Shakti Peetha: It is a famous Shakti Peetha in Bakreshwar, where the eyebrows of Sati Devi fell. 

Tarapith Temple: It is a powerful tantrik temple dedicated to the worship of Tara Devi. This famous Shakti Peetha is located in the Birbhum district, 60 km away from the village of Kankalitala.

Fullara Temple: Goddess Fullara is worshiped in the form of a pindi. Also called Attahas Shakti Peetha, this sacred site is believed to mark the spot where the lower lip of Sati Devi fell.

By Railway: The nearest railhead to reach the temple is the Bolpur Shantiniketan railway station. From here, autos, cabs, and bus services are readily available.

By Road: The road to Birbhum is accessible by the Bolpur–Labhpur road.