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Location
The town of Kalna is a subdivision in Bardhaman District, at West Bengal (India). Being on the western bank of the river Bhagirathi, the town is infested with historical monuments. The place is at a distance of 25 kilometers from Nabadwip and is 77 kilometers from Kolkata. The place is at 23.22° N 88.37°
History
Kalna is close to the pilgrimages of Mayapur and Nabadwip and is better known as 'Ambika Kalna', named after the famous deity of Goddess Kali, Ambika. The place once housed the Rajas of Bardhaman. Kalna is the meeting point of the Vaishnava and Shakta forms of worship. The temples here are made of bricks and displays detailed terracotta artworks.
Attraction
The 108 Shiv Mandirs or the Nava Kailash have been constructed in 1809. The temples have been built in two circles. One circle has 74 temples, consisting white marble and black stone Shivlingas, while the other circle has 34 temples having only white marble Shivlingas. The unique factor is that all the Shivlingas can be viewed from the center of the temple premise. The temples symbolize beads in a rosary. Some temples of the 108 temples of Lord Shiva (Hindu deity) have been listed below:
Pratapeswar Temple stands on a high platform and has a single-arched entrance. The 19th century temple does not have a roof.
Rash Mancha temple holds the festivities of the Dolyatra. This temple has been refurbished by the Archaeological Department, Govt. of West Bengal recently.
Krishna Chandraji Temple has a long verandah in front with three arched entrances. This temple, built in 1751-55 A.D is adorned with terracotta plaques.
Lalji Temple is located in an enclosed compound and was constructed in 1739. This temple is the oldest of the 108 Shiv temples.
Jagannath Temple has been named after the Hindu deity, Lord Jagannath. The temple is in need of a renovation and has the idol of Lord Shiva.
Gopalbari Temple has 25 monuments and its walls flaunt Terracotta artwork. You will find a hall close to the temple created for the purpose of musical performances and devotional dancing.
Mahaprabhu Bari has the manuscripts of Punthi that have been composed by Mahaprabhu or Lord Sree Chaitanya. This is among the best pilgrimages.
Special Events
Debi Bhabani temple is known to hold a special Puja on the last Saturday of Baisakh (the Bengali month). This had been made famous with the Hindu saint Bhaba Pagla or Ramakrishna.
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