Kalna Lalji Temple is Lord Krishna’s temple located within the Kalna temple complex and is one of the oldest terracotta temples in Kalna, Bardhaman region of West Bengal. Lalji temple was built in 1739 by Braja Kishori Devi who was the wife of Maharaja Jagat Ram. Inside the temple grounds, a bright yellow Garuda with icy green wings guards the main Radha and Krishna idols.

The Lalji temple in West Bengal features small panels that surround the temple’s base and depict scenes from the Puranas. This temple is primarily dedicated to Shri Radhika and Shri Krishna. Because of the 25 peaks on the roof, this temple is known as Panchabinsati-Ratna Mandir. From a distance, it appears to be very beautiful. The temple is made of bricks and has terracotta figures on the walls. The majority of it has faded with time, but what remains never ceases to amaze the viewer.

Story Behind Kalna Lalji Temple

According to legend, a poor sadhu named Lalji had stopped in Kalna to seek alms. He had this lovely Lord Krishna idol. Brajakishori Devi became enamoured with the idol and asked him to leave it with her. The sadhu was initially hesitant, but when Braja Kishori Devi suggested marrying his Krishna idol with her Radha idol, the sadhu relented.

As a result, the idols were married and placed inside the temple. Lalji then returned to Ambika Kalna to continue worshipping Lord Krishna. Locals affectionately referred to the temple as Lalji Mandir after his death due to old age.

History of Kalna Lalji Temple

Three dusky statues of Lord Krishna were discovered in 1840 when an acacia tree was cut and dug up in Bagund village during the construction of the unpaved road from Udaipur to Chittor in the then Mewar state.

The flag was hoisted on the temple in front of a large crowd in 1978. The construction, expansion, and beautification of the temple, which began in 1961, is still ongoing today. At this location, a beautiful and massive temple has been constructed. In February 2011, a huge 36-foot-high peak was built on which a gold-studded urn and flag were hoisted.

The architecture of Kalna Lalji Temple

It is made of bricks and terracotta panels. Unfortunately, parts of the facade have been covered with a layer of cement, concealing the worn-out details. Some terracotta peeks out here and there, adding a splash of colour to the otherwise dull cemented background. Nonetheless, what remained astounded me beyond words.

The unique feature of this temple is the 25 peaks on the roof; thus, these temples are known as Panchabinsati-Ratna Mandir (25 peaks). From a distance, Lalji Temple appears to be very beautiful. Count the peaks carefully; there are 12 in the first layer, three in each corner.

The second layer has eight peaks, two in each corner, the third layer has four pinnacles, and the final layer has a single large pinnacle in the centre, for a total of 25 pinnacles.

In the enclosure, there is a Natamandapa (hall for dancers), which may have been built for dance performances during festivals and important days, as the name suggests. The structure’s pillars are ornately decorated with terracotta figures. The Lord Krishna and his consort Radha are honoured at Kalna’s Lalji Oldest Terracotta Temple. Krishna and Radha idols are depicted in the Temple.

Facts about Kalna Lalji Temple

• The magnificent Kalna Lalji Temple stands in the heart of Kalna, a small town in West Bengal’s Bardhaman region.
• Kalna Lalji Temple holds great religious significance for the faithful. It’s a haven for spiritual seekers and a place of devotion.
• The Kalna Lalji Temple is a precious gem that exemplifies Bengal’s architectural and aesthetic excellence. It is worth seeing for its terracotta panels, historical significance, and religious significance.
• Whether you enjoy history, fine art, or spirituality, a visit to Lalji Temple will provide you with a memorable experience and a better understanding of West Bengal’s rich cultural heritage.
• Janmashtami, which commemorates Lord Krishna’s birth, is the most well-known religious celebration held at the temple each year. It’s incredible to see how these holidays fill the temple with prayers and devotional singing.
• Kalna Lalji Temple has 25 steeples and is the oldest temple in the Rajbari complex, having been built in 1739 AD.
• It is made of brick and has 25 ratnas (towers). The temple’s walls are adorned with terracotta plaques depicting royal hunting scenes.

Famous Festivals In Kalna Lalji Temple

• Krishna Janmashtami – Lord Krishna was born on Ashtami, the eighth day of the Hindu month of Bhadra. The celebrations at the Temple begin early in the morning and continue until late at night.
• Dev-Jhulni Ekaadashi – On the 11th day of Bhadra- Shukla especially Dev-Jhulni Ekaadashi, a fair or mela is organized by the mandir mandal.
• Holi – This festival is celebrated in the month of  Phalgun (Feb – March). During the celebration, people celebrate with colours and also celebrate and enjoy in temples complex.

Best Time to Visit Kalna Lalji Temple

This place is heavenly and spiritual; you can visit it all year. However, the best time to visit this temple is during the monsoon and winter seasons. During the monsoon season, this location receives moderate to heavy rainfall, making it appear heavenly with its greenery and bringing freshness elsewhere.

How to Reach Kalna Lalji Temple

Kalna Lalji Temple is within an enclosure inside the temple complex of Kalna.

By Air: The nearest airport is Kolkata Airport which is 91 Km from the Kalna Lalji Temple.

By Rail: The nearest railway station to Sanwariya Seth Temple is Ambika-Kalna station which is 2.3 Km From the Kalna Lalji Temple.

By Road: Kalna is known as Bardhaman’s temple town. It is located 60 kilometres from the district headquarters of Bardhman.

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