Ujaani Temple, Mangalkot, West Bengal
The Ujani Shakti Peeth, located in the serene village of Ujani near Guskara in Bardhaman district is dedicated to Maa Mangal Chandi, a powerful form of Goddess Durga. It is believed that Sati’s right wrist fell at this location in Ujani village.

The temple has been a centre of devotion for centuries. The name Mangal Chandi reflects the goddess’s role as a protector and benefactor of her devotees. The word Mangal means welfare, while Chandi refers to Goddess Durga’s fierce and protective aspect. The temple’s current structure is simple yet exudes an aura of divinity that draws pilgrims seeking peace and blessings. The temple is located about 16 kilometers from Guskara Railway Station and is easily accessible by road. Surrounded by lush greenery and ancient trees, the temple offers a serene environment for meditation and worship.

Goddess Sati is worshipped here as Maa Mangal Chandi, symbolising divine protection and nurturing energy. Lord Shiva is revered as Kapilambar Bhairava, representing his role as a guardian and protector. The combination of Maa Mangal Chandi and Kapilambar Bhairava represents the union of nurturing feminine energy with protective masculine power, making this Shakti Peetha a site of immense spiritual significance.

The Ujani Shakti Peeth stands out for its distinctive characteristics. The sanctum sanctorum houses two idols: one of Maa Mangal Chandi and another of Lord Shiva as Kapilambar Bhairava. Maa Mangal Chandi’s idol depicts her in a benevolent yet powerful form, adorned with ornaments and flowers offered by devotees. Kapilambar Bhairava’s idol symbolises Lord Shiva’s meditative yet protective aspect.

The temple structure is painted yellow and lacks elaborate architectural ornamentation. Its simplicity emphasizes spiritual connection over material grandeur. The courtyard is shaded by ancient trees that add to the temple’s serene ambiance. A pavilion or mandap in front of the deity provides space for devotees to sit and meditate. Pilgrims often describe entering meditative states effortlessly in this peaceful setting. Surrounded by greenery, the temple offers a calm environment ideal for introspection and prayer. Birds chirping in the trees add to its natural charm.

Daily pujas are performed by priests with morning Aarti begining at sunrise with chanting of hymns like Durga Saptashati and evening Aarti concluding with the lighting oil lamps around the temple premises. Durga Puja is celebrated with great fervor at Ujani Shakti Peeth. Elaborate rituals are conducted to honour Maa Mangal Chandi’s victory over evil forces. The deity is adorned with new clothes and jewelry donated by devotees during this time. Navratri is celebrated twice a year with grand rituals honoring Maa Mangal Chandi’s nurturing aspect. Devotees observe fasting during these nine days to seek blessings for prosperity and protection.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva who is worshipped as Kapilambar Bhairava, Mahashivratri involves night-long prayers and abhishekam with milk, honey, ghee, curd, and holy water. Devotees light oil lamps around the temple premises as part of their offerings. Yagnas are conducted during auspicious occasions like Navratri to invoke divine blessings for health, wealth, and spiritual growth.

According to legend, when Sati’s right wrist fell at this site after being dismembered by Vishnu’s Sudarshan Chakra, it radiated immense divine energy that sanctified not only Ujani but also its surrounding regions. Devotees believe that this energy can still be felt within the temple premises during meditation or prayer. Local lore suggests that Kapilambar Bhairava appeared in his fierce form to protect this sacred site from negative energies after Sati’s right wrist fell here. His presence ensures balance and harmony at Ujani Shakti Peeth. Devotees believe that Maa Mangal Chandi possesses miraculous healing powers. Many pilgrims visit the temple seeking relief from physical ailments or emotional distress after hearing stories of miraculous recoveries attributed to her blessings.

The Ujani Shakti Peeth offers visitors a unique spiritual experience rooted in mythology and devotion.

Bargabhima Temple, Tamluk, West Bengal
Located in Tamluk, Purba Medinipur district, the Vibhash Shakti Peeth, also known as the Bargabhima Temple, is dedicated to Maa Kapalini or Bhimarupa, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. As one of the 51 sacred Shakti Peethas, it is believed that the left ankle or heel of Goddess Sati fell at this site. Nestled on the banks of the Roopnarayan River, this ancient temple blends spirituality, history, and cultural heritage. Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Sarvanand Bhairava.

The temple is said to have been constructed during the reign of the Mayur dynasty, which ruled over Tamluk in ancient times. The current structure has undergone several renovations over centuries but retains its spiritual essence. Historical records suggest that the temple has been a centre of devotion for over 1,000 years. Tamluk itself holds special significance as a sacred Vaishnava Tirtha or pilgrimage site. According to the Jaimini Mahabharata and Kashidas Mahabharata, Lord Krishna visited Tamluk to release the divine horse for the Ashwamedha Yajna.

Goddess Sati is worshipped here as Maa Kapalini or Bhimarupa, symbolising power and protection. Lord Shiva is revered as Sarvanand Bhairava, representing his role as a guardian and protector. The left ankle or vama gulpha of Sati is believed to have fallen at this site.

The sanctum sanctorum houses an idol of Maa Kapalini in her fierce form. She is depicted with multiple arms holding weapons and adorned with ornaments offered by devotees. Adjacent to her shrine is a large black stone Shiva Lingam representing Sarvanand Bhairava. The Lingam is surrounded by a circular white marble boundary. The temple architecture reflects a blend of Hindu, Buddhist, and Oriya styles. Its pyramidal dome resembles Kalinga temple tombs, while the natmandir or prayer hall follows the traditional Bengali aatchala style. The intricate carvings on its walls depict scenes from Hindu mythology.

Situated on the banks of the Roopnarayan River amidst lush greenery, the temple offers a serene environment ideal for meditation and prayer. During India’s freedom struggle, revolutionaries like Khudiram Bose visited this temple to seek blessings before embarking on their missions. The temple served as an oath-taking site for many revolutionaries who vowed to free their motherland. Unlike most temples where vegetarian offerings are made, Maa Kapalini’s prasad includes non-vegetarian items such as cooked fish or sol mach. This practice reflects ancient traditions associated with Shakti worship.

The rituals at Vibhash Shakti Peeth reflect deep-rooted traditions combined with local customs. Daily pujas are performed by priests. The morning Aarti begins at sunrise with chanting of hymns like Durga Saptashati, while evening Aarti concludes with lighting oil lamps around the temple premises. Durga Puja is celebrated with grandeur at Vibhash Shakti Peeth. Elaborate rituals are conducted over nine days to honour Maa Kapalini’s victory over evil forces. Devotees participate in cultural programs and community feasts during this time.

Held during Makara Sankranti in January, Barunir Mela is an annual fair that attracts thousands of pilgrims who come to take a holy dip in the Roopnarayan River before offering prayers at the temple. On Sharad Purnima, special prayers are held under moonlight to invoke divine blessings for prosperity and happiness. Dedicated to Sarvanand Bhairava, Mahashivratri involves night-long prayers and abhishekam with milk, honey, ghee, curd, and holy water. Devotees light oil lamps around the Shiva Lingam as part of their offerings.

Tamluk holds special significance due to its association with Lord Krishna. According to local lore recorded in Jaimini Mahabharata and Kashidas Mahabharata, Lord Krishna visited Tamluk during his Ashwamedha Yajna and blessed the region with his divine presence. During India’s freedom struggle, many revolutionaries took oaths at Vibhash Shakti Peeth before embarking on their missions. They believed that Maa Kapalini’s blessings would protect them in their fight for independence.

The Vibhash Shakti Peeth offers visitors a unique spiritual experience rooted in mythology and devotion. Unique features like non-vegetarian prasad emphasise ancient traditions while preserving spiritual heritage. Whether you seek spiritual solace or wish to explore India’s rich cultural heritage, visiting this ancient shrine will leave you feeling connected to divine feminine energy embodied by Maa Kapalini.

Jogadya Temple, Kshirgram, West Bengal
The Jogadya Temple, located in Kshirgram, Purba Bardhaman district s dedicated to Maa Jogadya, a fierce form of Goddess Durga. Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Kshireshwar Bhairava. It is believed that the big toe of Sati’s right leg fell at this site, sanctifying it as a Shakti Peetha. Known for its unique rituals, historical significance, and mystical legends, the Jogadya Temple attracts devotees from across India who come to seek blessings and experience its divine energy.

Historical evidence suggests that the temple dates back to the 11th century CE. It was originally constructed as a brick temple surrounded by a compound wall. Over time, it underwent several phases of destruction and reconstruction. The temple was severely damaged during invasions by Kalapahar but was later restored by local rulers and devotees. The current structure reflects a blend of ancient and modern architecture.

The name Jogadya derives from two Sanskrit words: Jug meaning era and Adya meaning the first, symbolising the goddess as the primordial force who presides over all eras. Locals also refer to the temple as Maa-er Baari or the Mother’s Home, emphasising its importance in their lives. The combination of Maa Jogadya and Kshireshwar Bhairava represents the union of nurturing feminine energy with protective masculine power.

The main sanctum does not house a traditional idol but instead has an altar connected to an underground chamber symbolising Maa Jogadya’s connection to the underworld or Paatalnivasini. Devotees worship this altar as her divine presence. Adjacent to the temple lies a sacred pond known as Kshirdighi. It is believed that Maa Jogadya resides in this water body. The goddess is ceremonially brought out of the water only seven days a year for public worship. Devotees believe that bathing in this pond purifies sins and brings prosperity. A copper pot or kalash filled with water from the sacred pond, Kshirdighi, is placed on the altar during special rituals.

A beautifully carved decagonal statue of Mahishamardini Durga was created by Nabin Chandra Bhaskar in imitation of an older idol lost during invasions. This statue is housed in a new temple built by villagers and remains open for darshan throughout the year. The temple complex includes three main sections: the domed sanctum or the garbhagriha, an entrance hall or the ardhamandap, and a dance hall or the natmandir. Its design reflects traditional Bengali temple architecture with minimal ornamentation. A small shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva as Kshireshwar Bhairava stands near Maa Jogadya’s temple. The idol of Shiva is placed at an elevated height and is accessible via stairs.

Daily pujas are performed by priests with the morning Aarti at sunrise which begins with chanting of hymns like Durga Saptashati, while evening Aarti concludes with lighting oil lamps around the temple premises. On Baishakh Sankranti, the last day of Baishakh, Maa Jogadya is ceremonially brought out of Kshirdighi for public worship. This grand event attracts thousands of devotees who gather to witness her darshan. Buffalo sacrifices are performed during this ritual as part of ancient Shakti worship practices. Apart from Baishakh Sankranti, Maa Jogadya is brought out on select days like Asadh Navami, Vijayadashami or Dussehra, Paush Sankranti, and Makara Sankranti for worship by priests or specific community members. Durga Puja is celebrated with grandeur at Jogadya Temple. Elaborate rituals are conducted over nine days to honor Maa Durga’s victory over evil forces. Devotees participate in cultural programs and community feasts during this time. On new moon nights or Amavasya, special Tantric rituals are conducted by priests to invoke Maa Jogadya’s protective energy.

According to local legend recorded in Chandi Mangal and Jogadya Bandana, Hanuman carried Maa Durga on his back while searching for a suitable place to establish her shrine after rescuing her from Paatal Lok, the underworld. He chose Kshirgram due to its central position on Earth. This story reinforces the belief that Kshirgram is a spiritually significant location. During renovations of Kshirdighi in recent years, villagers discovered an ancient idol believed to be the original statue of Maa Jogadya hidden underwater for centuries to protect it from invaders. In medieval times, human sacrifices were reportedly performed at Jogadya Temple as part of Shakti worship rituals. These were later replaced by buffalo sacrifices under royal decree from the Bardhaman Raj family.

The Jogadya Temple is somewhere one should go if they are seeking spiritual solace or wish to explore India’s rich cultural heritage.

Ratnavali, Khanakul I, West Bengal
Also known as the Anandamayee Shakti Peeth, the Ratnavali Shakti Peeth is a sacred temple located in Khanakul-Krishnanagar, Hooghly district. Nestled on the banks of the Ratnakar River, this ancient shrine is dedicated to Maa Kumari, and Lord Shiva is worshipped as Bhairava.

It is believed that Sati’s right shoulder fell at this location in Khanakul-Krishnanagar. The temple has been a centre of devotion for centuries and is known locally as the Anandamayee Shakti Peeth. The name Ratnavali translates to a string of gems, symbolising the divine radiance and spiritual wealth associated with this sacred site. The current structure reflects traditional Bengali temple architecture and has undergone renovations over time to preserve its sanctity.

Goddess Sati is worshipped here as Maa Kumari, symbolising purity and divine energy. Lord Shiva is revered as Bhairava, representing his protective aspect. The right shoulder or dakshina skandha of Sati fell at this site.

The temple is situated on the tranquil banks of the Ratnakar River, adding to its serene ambiance. Devotees believe that the river’s waters carry divine blessings and often perform purification rituals before entering the temple. The sanctum sanctorum houses an intricately carved idol of Maa Kumari adorned with ornaments and flowers. Adjacent to her shrine is a smaller shrine dedicated to Bhairava, symbolizing Lord Shiva’s presence as her protector. The temple features traditional Bengali architecture with a curved roof or chala and terracotta designs on its walls. Its simplicity emphasizes spiritual connection over material grandeur. During Navratri, the temple becomes a hub of religious activity with grand decorations, cultural performances, and community feasts. Despite being located in a relatively remote area, the temple is well-connected by road and rail. Pilgrims often travel from Howrah or Kolkata to visit this sacred site.

Daily worship includes the morning and evening aartis and devotees offer flowers, especially hibiscus, fruits, sweets, incense sticks, and coconuts to Maa Kumari while chanting hymns like Durga Saptashati. Navratri is celebrated twice a year in March-April and September-October with great fervor. Special pujas are performed over nine days to honor Maa Kumari’s nurturing aspect. Devotees observe fasting during these nine days as an act of devotion. Durga Puja is one of the most vibrant festivals celebrated at Ratnavali Shakti Peeth. Elaborate rituals are conducted to honor Mahishamardini Durga’s victory over evil forces. The deity is adorned with new clothes and jewelry donated by devotees during this time.

Dedicated to Bhairava or Lord Shiva, Maha Shivratri involves night-long prayers and abhishekam with milk, honey, ghee, curd, and holy water. Devotees light oil lamps around the temple premises as part of their offerings. Havan ceremonies are conducted during auspicious occasions like Navratri and Shivratri to invoke divine blessings for prosperity and protection.

According to legend, when Sati’s right shoulder fell at this site after being dismembered by Vishnu’s Sudarshan Chakra, it radiated immense divine energy that sanctified the surrounding area. Devotees believe that this energy still permeates the temple premises, making it a powerful center for spiritual awakening. Local lore suggests that Bhairava appeared in his fierce form to protect this sacred site from negative energies after Sati’s right shoulder fell here. His presence ensures balance and harmony at Ratnavali Shakti Peeth. It is believed that devotees who pray earnestly at Ratnavali Shakti Peeth experience miraculous healing from ailments. Many pilgrims visit the temple seeking relief from physical and emotional hardships through Maa Kumari’s blessings.

The Ratnavali Shakti Peeth offers visitors a unique spiritual experience rooted in mythology, devotion, and natural beauty. Whether you seek spiritual solace or wish to explore India’s rich cultural heritage, visiting this ancient shrine will leave you feeling connected to the divine feminine energy.

Trishrota/Bhramari Devi, Jalpaiguri, West Bengal
The Bhramari Devi Temple, also known as the Trisrota Shakti Peetha, is a revered Hindu shrine located in Bodaganj village, Jalpaiguri district. Nestled on the banks of the Tista River, this temple is one of the 51 sacred Shakti Peethas, where it is believed that the thumb of Sati’s left leg fell.

The temple is named after Maa Bhramari, an incarnation of Goddess Durga who is associated with bees or bhramara in Sanskrit. According to legend, Maa Bhramari transformed into a swarm of bees to defeat a demon named Arun Asura who had terrorised heaven and earth. Her fierce yet protective nature earned her the title Goddess of Bees. Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Ambar Bhairava.

While the exact date of the temple’s construction remains unknown, it has been a center of devotion for centuries. The temple’s serene location on the banks of the Tista River adds to its spiritual ambiance and makes it an ideal destination for meditation and worship.

Maa Bhramari is known as the Goddess of Bees. Devotees believe that her divine energy manifests through bees that protect her temple. Honey, associated with bees, is offered as a sacred item during rituals. The temple is located on the banks of the Tista River, also known as Trisrota, meaning three streams. The river’s tranquil flow creates a serene environment that enhances meditation and spiritual practices. Unlike many temples that house stone or metal idols, Maa Bhramari is represented by a symbolic stone structure adorned with flowers and sacred cloths. The temple features traditional Bengali architectural elements with minimal ornamentation. Its natural setting amidst greenery adds to its charm. Devotees believe that Maa Bhramari possesses miraculous powers to heal ailments, bless couples with children, and protect devotees from evil forces.

The rituals at Trisrota Shakti Peetha reflect ancient Hindu traditions combined with local customs. Daily pujas are performed by priests who offer flowers, especially hibiscus, fruits, honey, incense sticks, and coconuts to Maa Bhramari. Morning Aarti begins at sunrise with chanting of hymns like Durga Saptashati. Evening Aarti concludes with lighting oil lamps around the temple premises. Bhramari Puja, a special 10-day festival dedicated to Maa Bhramari takes place annually in July-August. During this time the temple is decorated with flowers and lights, devotees offer honey as a sacred item, and cultural performances and community feasts are organised.

Navratri is celebrated twice a year in March-April and September-October with grand rituals honoring Maa Bhramari’s protective aspect. Devotees observe fasting during these nine days to seek blessings for prosperity and protection. Honey or madhu is considered sacred due to its association with bees and is offered daily at Maa Bhramari’s altar. Yagnas are conducted during auspicious occasions like Navratri to invoke divine blessings for health, wealth, and spiritual growth.

According to legend, Arun Asura was a cruel demon who terrorised heaven and earth after gaining immense power through penance. He drove out gods from their celestial abodes and harassed their families. In desperation, they sought help from Maa Parmeshwari, another form of Goddess Durga, who transformed into Maa Bhramari—a giant bee surrounded by swarms of bees. Maa Bhramari attacked Arun Asura with her swarm, piercing his chest repeatedly until he was defeated. This victory symbolises triumph over evil forces and establishes Maa Bhramari as a fierce protector.

Devotees believe that Maa Bhramari possesses miraculous healing powers. Many pilgrims visit the temple seeking relief from physical ailments or emotional distress after hearing stories of miraculous recoveries attributed to her blessings. It is said that those who offer honey at Maa Bhramari’s altar with sincere devotion often see their wishes fulfilled—whether related to financial stability, fertility, or personal growth.

The Trisrota Shakti Peetha with its unique rituals like honey offerings emphasise simplicity in worship while preserving ancient traditions. Whether you seek spiritual solace or wish to explore India’s rich cultural heritage, visiting this ancient shrine will leave you feeling connected to the divine feminine energy embodied by Maa Bhramari.

Nandikeshwari Temple, Sainthia, West Bengal
Believed to be where the necklace of Sati fell, the Nandikeshwari Temple, located in Sainthia, Birbhum district is dedicated to Maa Nandikeshwari, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The origins of the Nandikeshwari Temple are deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. After Sati’s self-immolation during Daksha Yajna, Lord Vishnu dismembered her body with his Sudarshan Chakra to pacify Lord Shiva’s grief-stricken Tandava. It is believed that Sati’s necklace fell at this site in what was once known as Nandipur village, now part of Sainthia town. This event sanctified the location as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas.

The temple was constructed in 1913 CE, the year 1320 according to the Bengali calendar on an elevated platform. Over time, it has undergone renovations but retains its ancient charm. The name Nandikeshwari derives from Nandi, the sacred bull and follower of Lord Shiva, and Ishwari, meaning goddess. This etymology reflects the temple’s association with both Shiva and Shakti. Sainthia itself is derived from the Bengali term Sain, meaning Islamic priest, symbolising the region’s history of cultural coexistence. The temple stands on the banks of the Mayurakshi River.

Goddess Sati is worshipped here as Maa Nandikeshwari, symbolising divine protection and nurturing energy. Lord Shiva is revered here as Nandikeshwar Bhairava, representing his role as a guardian and protector. The necklace or mala of Sati is believed to have fallen at this site. The combination of Maa Nandikeshwari and Nandikeshwar Bhairava represents the union of nurturing feminine energy with protective masculine power, making this Shakti Peetha a site of immense spiritual significance.

The Nandikeshwari Temple stands out for its distinctive characteristics. The main idol in the temple is a black stone that has turned red over time due to the continuous application of vermilion by devotees. This stone is adorned with a silver crown and three golden eyes symbolizing divine vision. Devotees believe that touching or praying before this sacred stone brings blessings and fulfils wishes.

Adjacent to the temple is an ancient banyan tree where devotees tie red or yellow threads with prayers for wish fulfilment. This practice symbolises their faith in Maa Nandikeshwari’s divine grace. The temple features a pyramidal dome marking Maa Nandikeshwari’s sanctum. Surrounding it are smaller shrines dedicated to other deities like Lord Shiva, Ram-Sita, Radha-Krishna, Saraswati, Lakshmi-Narayana, and Hanuman. The walls overlooking the main temple feature carvings of the Dasa Mahavidya, the ten forms of Goddess Durga, symbolising her diverse manifestations.

The rituals at Nandikeshwari Temple reflect deep-rooted traditions combined with local customs. Daily pujas are performed by priests who offer flowers, fruits, coconuts, rice, incense sticks, and sweets to Maa Nandikeshwari. Morning Aarti begins at sunrise with chanting of hymns like Durga Saptashati, while evening Aarti concludes with lighting oil lamps around the temple premises.

The 10-day Nandikeshwari Utsav is a festival held annually in October-November is one of the most important events at the temple. During this time, the temple is adorned with flowers and lights, special yagnas are conducted to invoke divine blessings, and devotees from across India participate in cultural programs and community feasts. Celebrated on Buddha Purnima, the full moon day commemorating the birth of the Buddha, the festival of Baishakhi Purnima, involves special prayers and offerings at Maa Nandikeshwari’s altar. Devotees light lamps under the banyan tree to seek blessings for prosperity and happiness.

Kali Puja is celebrated with grand rituals honoring Maa Durga’s fierce aspect as Kali. Devotees offer red hibiscus flowers symbolic of power and victory over evil forces. On new moon nights or Amavasya, special Tantric rituals are conducted by priests to invoke Maa Nandikeshwari’s protective energy.

It is believed that when Sati’s necklace fell at this site, it radiated immense divine energy that sanctified not only Sainthia but also its surrounding regions. Devotees claim that this energy can still be felt within the temple premises during meditation or prayer. According to legend, tying threads around the banyan tree adjacent to the temple fulfills devotees’ wishes—whether related to health, prosperity, or personal relationships. Many pilgrims return annually to untie their threads as a gesture of gratitude after their wishes are fulfilled. Devotees believe that Maa Nandikeshwari possesses miraculous healing powers. Many visit the temple seeking relief from physical ailments or emotional distress after hearing stories of miraculous recoveries attributed to her blessings.

The Nandikeshwari Temple, on the banks of the Mayurakshi River provides an ideal setting for meditation and introspection. If one is seeking spiritual solace, visiting this ancient shrine will leave one connected to the divine feminine energy.