What do you know about the ancient Dhakeshwari Temple in Dhaka? Well, this article will reveal more than you know about the well-known Hindu temple in Bangladesh. The temple has existed for over a thousand years against all odds, and it has never stopped being a vibrant shrine owing to its shiny architecture, standout size, and colours. Many generations of the Hindu community have worshipped this temple and have thus embodied its virtues and culture.
Dhakeshwari Temple in Dhaka
The temple’s main building is a brick three-roomed structure coloured red. Its outer surface is decorated with detailed carvings and terracotta decorations. A verandah extends from the main entrance, and four smaller Shiva temples are located in the northeastern corner of the complex.
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History of Dhakeshwari Temple
The name ‘Dhakeshwari’, the ‘Goddess of Dhaka,’ is significant in Dhaka’s history. The historical Dhakeshwari Temple in Dhaka has always stood at the top of all its splendour and glory as the most pre-eminent revered temple in the heart of old Dhaka. Therefore, the temple, in other words, cannot be drawn up as a religious place but a cultural and artistic expression. Thousands of people and visitors throughout the year come to take a look at this magnificent temple from the last twelve centuries.
The history of Dhakeshwari Temple is very interesting. According to legends, Ballal Sen, a king in the Sena dynasty, founded the temple. The city was said to be named after the presiding Goddess. The Dhakeshwari Temple has undergone repairs, renovations, and even rebuilding. Nonetheless, the spiritual nature and architectural beauty of the temple remained. Researchers believed the Dhakeshwari to be a Shakti Peetha, where one of the jewels from the crown of Goddess Sati was dropped.
Things to Do at Dhakeshwari Temple
Do you know that aside from being a venue for worship, The Dhakeshwari Temple in Dhaka is also used for celebrations and festivals to honour events and figures from Hindu mythology and culture?
1. Attend the Durga Puja Festival
Durga Puja is an important ten-day Hindu festival celebrated in the Ashvian month of Hinduism and the September-October month of the Gregorian calendar. Durga Puja is celebrated in Bengal, Assam, and other eastern states of India. Durga, the goddess of victory of the good, fought the demon king. Mahishasura was a demon to whom Brahma granted immunity from death. He slaughtered all the gods of heaven and seized them, hurling them down. The gods made Durga, incorporating their powers, a woman warrior who finally defeated the demon and re-established peace.
- The first day of the festival, known as the Mahalaya, is when the Durga Goddess arrives.
- The main celebrations and worship begin on the sixth day, the Sasthi.
- Three days after the Sasthi, the goddess Durga will be revered in her three forms: Durga (strength and victory), Lakshmi (wealth and prosperity), and Saraswati (knowledge and wisdom).
- The festival will then end on the tenth day with Vijayadashami. The grand procession carries sacred images of Durga to local rivers while people chant and drum. In the morning, these idols are submerged in the water to be washed, signifying the goddess’s return to her home and husband, Shiva, in the Himalayas.
During Durga Puja, people build large temporary structures known as pandals. These are decorated with designs and often house exquisite images of Durga, who is usually shown riding a lion as she battles Mahishasura.
Best Time to Visit: Between the months of September and October, when Navratri is observed in India.
Location: In Dhakeshwari Temple. Pandals are spotted throughout the city.
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2. Celebrate Krishna Janmashtami
One other awaited event of the year is Krishna Janmashtami – a public holiday in Bangladesh, second only to Durga Puja in the Bengali calendar. The idols of the deity are carried through the streets of old Dhaka on the day of Lord Krishna’s birth. The tableaux reviving scenes from Krishna’s life, and the Satyabhama-Krishna romance are presented in the huge procession in which the devotees pull the rope of the huge chariot. The annual procession of Krishna Janmashtami festival, passing through the eastern and central part of the city, in the heart of old Dhaka – is the best-known religious proceeding in Dhaka, suspended after 1948 and resumed again in 1989.
Best Time to Visit: When Krishna Janmashtami is observed in India, during the calendar year.
Location: Old Dhaka
3. Visit the Lalbagh Fort
The Dhakeshwari Temple location is an 8-minute walk from the famous Lalbagh Fort. So, if you’re visiting the temple, you must not miss some sightseeing opportunities in Dhaka. The fort boasts beautiful Mughal architecture and is a historical landmark. It is a majestic testament to the rich history of Dhaka.
Lalbagh Fort sits in the busy streets of Old Dhaka. It is an old building from the 1600s. The fort has a mysterious air to it. Commissioned by Prince Muhammad Azam, son of Emperor Aurangzeb, its construction was left incomplete, yet its allure remains intact. Once you step in, you’ll be immediately transported to the past. Centuries-old corridors and courtyards are decorated with delicate motifs and intricate carvings. The fort’s main attractions include the stunning Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Audience), the tranquil Hammam (bathhouse), and the solemn Tomb of Pari Bibi. If you’re a history buff, you will revel in the stories of valour that the ancient walls narrate. On the other hand, photographers can enjoy endless inspiration in its architectural splendour. The fort has tranquil gardens, making it an oasis of peace and serenity between the urban chaos of Dhaka. Walk through Bangladesh’s rich and timeless history while the fort leaves a mark on your heart.
Best Time to Visit: Visit during the morning or before sunset, when the fort is in full glory.
Location: Lalbagh Rd, Dhaka 1211, Bangladesh
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Things to Know About the Dhakeshwari Temple Before Visiting
- This ancient temple is known to be the largest Hindu National Temple in all of Bangladesh.
- The name Dhaka was coined from Devi Dhakeshwari, an incarnation of Goddess Durga.
- The temple in Dhaka was first built in the 12th century by Ballal Sen, a member of the Sena Dynasty.
- Many people are unaware that the Durga idol, now in the temple, replicates the original. Around 800 years old, the original idol was taken to Kumartuli, Kolkata, from Dhaka, along with millions of refugees during the partition.
- The independence war in Bangladesh in 1971 was a dark time in the temple’s history. Much of the temple’s architecture was mutilated, and the Pakistani troops used it as an ammunition storage unit. Then, the government set out to renovate the temple as one of its primary jobs. Ever since then, the temple has become a Hindu pilgrimage destination.
- The Devi is offered strictly vegetarian bhog prasad, and twelve deep (earthen lamps) are lit on the mangal ghat.
The Devi is offered strictly vegetarian bhog prasad, and twelve deep (earthen lamps) are lit on the mangal ghat.
Dhakeshwari Temple Timings
The temple is open for devotees from 8:00 AM to 7:30 PM and closes for visitors from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM. Tourists can also see the four Shiva Temples built by King Mansigh in the 16th century. However, given the traditions of Hindu temples in Bangladesh, visitors are recommended to wear local attire as a token of respect to the Goddess. It is important to note that the entire territory of the temple property, namely 54.4 bighas, is open from 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM to 8:30 PM from October to March.
Further Read: Must Visit Ancient Temples in India
Now that you have learned the cultural and spiritual significance of the Dhakeshwari Temple and when to visit, you can begin planning a visit to this ancient, revered location. The Dhakeshwari Temple is a place that people cannot forget, whether you are an inclined Hindu yearning for spiritual comfort or a traveller who wants to explore Bangladesh’s culture. Therefore, mark your calendar and book a trip to Asia to visit the Dhakeshwari Temple. Plan your trip today and uncover lasting memories deep within your heart after you come home.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Dhakeshwari Temple
Does the temple have any dress code and manners to be followed while visiting?
Like all other Hindu temples in Bangladesh, visitors should dress decently in traditional attire. This is a sign of respect to the presiding Goddess. Shoes have to be removed before going into the temple premises.
What time are visitors allowed in the Dhakeshwari Temple premises?
The time for visiting is between 8:00 AM to 7:30 PM daily. However, between 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM, the temple is locked.
Are people who are not Hindus allowed in the Dhakeshwari Temple?
Different worshippers and tourists with different faiths can visit the temple. Decorum and modesty are just something that should be adhered to.
Is there any historical or mythological background behind selecting the current temple location?
According to legend, King Bijoy Sen's wife gave birth to their son, Ballal Sen (the temple builder), on her way to Langolbond for a ritual bath. Ballal Sen constructed the Dhakeshwari Temple to commemorate his birthplace and enshrine the Goddess who guided his arrival.
Can anyone visit the Dhakeshwari Temple?
Dhakeshwari Temple can be accessed by different people of various faiths.
here is Dhakeshwari Temple location?
Dhakeshwari Temple is in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
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