Jogadya Shakti Peeth Temple
Jogadya Shakti Peeth (Kshirgram) – History, Temple Guide & Travel Information
Jogadya Shakti Peeth Temple, located in Kshirgram village of Purba Bardhaman, West Bengal, is one of the sacred 51 Shakti Peethas. According to Hindu mythology, the right great toe of Goddess Sati fell at this site during the Daksha Yajna, making it an important pilgrimage destination. Devotees worship Goddess Sati here as Maa Jogadya (Yogadya), while they revere Lord Shiva as Kshireswar (Kshirakantha).
History of Jogadya Shakti Peeth
Several renowned Tantric scriptures, including Kujjika Tantra, Brihannila Tantra, Gandharva Tantra, Tantrasara, Tantrachudamani, Annada Mangal, Mahapith Nirupanam, and Shiva Charita, mention Kshirgram and recognize it as one of the most sacred Shakti Peethas.
The Ramayana also connects Kshirgram with Goddess Jogadya. After defeating Mahiravana in Patal Lok, Lord Hanuman rescued Lord Rama and Lakshmana. He then brought the idol of Goddess Bhadrakali to Kshirgram and established it there. Over time, devotees began worshipping the goddess as Maa Jogadya, and the temple became one of the most revered Shakti Peeths in West Bengal.
Old & New Temples
The ancient brick temple, locally known as “Maa-er Bari,” dates back to around the 11th century. However, invasions led by Kalapahar damaged the original structure. Later, Maharaja Kirti Chandra restored the temple in the 18th century.
Today, devotees visit two important temples:
- Old Temple: This historic shrine no longer houses the original idol.
- New Jogadya Temple: Built near Kshirdighi, this temple features beautiful red stone architecture. During the annual festival, devotees ceremonially bring the sacred idol out of the pond for public darshan.
Kshireswar Temple
Lord Kshireswar Shiva serves as the Bhairava of this Shakti Peeth. The ancient Shiva temple stands close to Kshirdighi. Therefore, it forms an important part of the pilgrimage.
Kshirdighi
The scenic Kshirdighi is a large sacred pond covering around 13 acres. Beautiful gardens surround the pond and create a peaceful setting. As a result, it offers visitors a calm place for prayer and reflection.
Festivals
The most important celebration is Baishakhi Sankranti Maha Puja. During this festival, devotees ceremonially bring the idol of Maa Jogadya out of the waters of Kshirdighi.
Thousands of devotees gather for public darshan each year. Moreover, the festival creates a vibrant spiritual atmosphere around the temple complex.
How to Reach Jogadya Shakti Peeth
By Train: Kaichar Railway Station is around 4 km away. The station has connections to Bardhaman and Katwa.
By Road: Regular buses and taxis operate from Bardhaman, around 40 km away. Katwa is approximately 20 km from the temple.
By Air: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata, is approximately 165 km away.
Temple Timings
Darshan: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Visitors should check locally before travelling, especially during major festivals, as timings may change.
Accommodation
Basic accommodation facilities are available within the temple complex for pilgrims. In addition, devotees can access Bhog Prasad facilities. These services make the pilgrimage more convenient for visitors.
You can check west bengal shaktipeeth packages.