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At first glance, one might mistake it for just another temple, but the Annapurna Temple stands as a testament to its spiritual heritage. Crafted in the likeness of the revered Dakshineswar Temple, this temple pays homage to Goddess Annapurna, the bestower of sustenance for over 150 years.
Jagadamba Devi, the youngest daughter of Rani Rashmoni, envisioned and laid the foundation stone of this temple. Legend has it that during the temple's inauguration, Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa himself graced the occasion with his divine presence.
The temple abounds with tales of triumph and struggle. Founded in 1875, Jagadamba Devi, driven by a divine vision, faced numerous obstacles in its construction. Bearing the weight of her husband Mathura Mohan Biswas's demise, she and her eldest son, Dwarakanath Biswas, persevered until its completion.
On April 12, 1875, on the auspicious day of Chaitra Sankranti, Sri Ramakrishna Dev inaugurated the temple in Chanok, which is now known as Barrackpore.
Adorning the entrance of the temple is a majestic lion sculpture, a symbol of strength and sovereignty. However, even the installation of this lion faced opposition from the British authorities, leading Jagadamba Devi and her son Dwarakanath to personally install it.
Inside, seated atop a lotus pedestal, is the divine idol of Sri Sri Shiva-Shakti Annapurna Thakurani. Facing her is Lord Shiva himself. The goddess Annapurna is worshipped daily with fervour and devotion.
The temple's foundation myth, the Kashi Legend, is widely revered. It recounts a time when marital discord plagued Shiva and Parvati. In a fit of anger, Parvati left Mount Kailash. After that, devotees were suffering from an epidemic. They prayed to various deities for sustenance. Moved by their plight, Shiva disguised himself as a beggar and sought alms from a woman in Kashi. Unknowingly, Parvati fed him, leading to their reconciliation. Inspired by this tale, the devotees built the Annapurna Temple in Kashi.
In recent years, devotee gatherings have surged, with elaborate offerings and festivities on special occasions. From floral decorations to sumptuous feasts comprising thirteen types of fish, fried delicacies, khichuri, polao, paayesh, and desserts, devotees celebrate Goddess Annapurna with zeal and reverence.
The Annapurna Temple stands not just as a place of worship but as a testament to faith, resilience, and divine grace, weaving together the threads of history, spirituality, and devotion in the vibrant tapestry of Kolkata's cultural heritage.
To visit the temple, travellers can board any train from Sealdah to Barrackpore or Titagarh and then hire a toto or auto to reach the temple gates in Barrackpore.
