Sadhguru says in his mystic journey to Ma Bongkeshwari Temple in Birbhum that the temple of Devi Bongkeshwari is not merely built on soil but on centuries of reverence, mysticism, and the spirit of the eternal feminine. Birbhum’s crimson soil carries the ancient echoes of mystics and sages, reminding us that every step is sacred.
Mystic Journey | Birbhum | November 10, 2005
Sadhguru: Birbhum, often called the “Land of the Red Soil,” is a mystical region in West Bengal, where history, spirituality, and folklore weave an enchanting tapestry. Known for its crimson-hued earth, Birbhum is not merely a geographical location; it’s a world of ancient rituals, hidden temples, and sacred groves where the echoes of mystic chants still linger in the air. Nestled in the heart of Birbhum, a land steeped in mysticism and folklore, lies the ancient shrine of Devi Bongkeshwari, an embodiment of the divine feminine power worshipped with unshakable devotion.
Rooted in the village of Bongkeshwaritala, this temple is a sacred sanctuary where legends and spiritual heritage intertwine, creating an aura of reverence and mystery. From the stone idol enshrined within to the tranquil Triveni canal that flows nearby, every aspect of this temple has an air of antiquity and enchantment. The deity herself is believed to embody the fierce unity of Shiva and Parvati, representing a divine balance of masculine and feminine energies.
Bong Bongkeshwari—a goddess imbued with profound spiritual power, worshipped with deep reverence by locals and pilgrims alike. Enshrined at Bongkeshwaritala under the jurisdiction of Rampurhat police station, her temple is located a mere three kilometres west of Rampurhat railway station. It is said that the Bongkeshwari temple, steeped in antiquity, was originally established by the Chaudhury family of Nimtita in Murshidabad.
Legend has it that the goddess was initially worshipped beneath ancient neem and sheora trees, her presence sanctifying the earth below in the form of a rustic stone altar, much like other deities of the rural folk tradition. Later, on the divine command of Bong Bongkeshwari herself, a permanent temple was constructed. Initially, the temple faced north; however, another divine vision prompted its reorientation southward, where it stands to this day—simple and unadorned, bearing a timeless, unfinished appearance that exudes a certain sacred austerity.
Birbhum is more than a place; it is an embodiment of the mystic, where the divine feminine pulses with life.
To the south of the temple flows a canal, known locally as Kandar, yet also referred to as Triveni by some devotees. This Triveni water is said to possess a striking blue clarity. Nestled within a dense grove of ancient silk-cotton trees, the cremation ground adjacent to the temple bears a mystical aura. It is rumoured that on every new moon, at least one body is brought here for cremation—a practice that has continued for centuries. This cremation ground, spanning around twelve to thirteen bighas, is venerated as a pious resting place, attracting bodies even from distant places like Raniganj, Munger, and Patna. Around it are numerous altars, built by families in honour of their loved ones who were cremated here.
To the west of the temple lies a meditation seat, once graced by Bamakhyapa, the revered Tantric saint, who performed his esoteric practices here. It is believed that only those initiated into Tantra may conduct rituals within this sacred temple. According to popular belief, ordinary people are unable to stay overnight at this temple, while special Kaula-Tantriks arrive during auspicious nights to perform Nishi Puja (night worship) in the temple precincts.
The temple of Maa Bungkeshwari is not merely built on soil but on centuries of reverence, mysticism, and the spirit of the eternal feminine.
The annual worship of Devi Bongkeshwari takes place on the first day of the Bengali month of Magh, with an accompanying fair that has been celebrated for nearly 300 years. Previously, the fair lasted several days; however, it is now held for only one day. This fair, affectionately known as Brahmadaitya’s fair by the locals, is a day when devotees gather to pay homage to the goddess. Although worship is performed during the day, rituals honouring Bong Bongkeshwari occur on every new moon, with her devotees assembling in reverence.
Many residents regard Devi Bongkeshwari as a composite form of Shiva and Parvati. According to local lore, Parvati, upon seeing the holy Ganges flowing through Shiva’s locks, became enraged. To appease her, Shiva united with her form, creating a divine balance—one half embodying Shiva’s serene presence, the other, Parvati’s fierce energy. This confluence of divine masculine and feminine powers manifests as Devi Bongkeshwari, the supreme goddess of power. She is known for her miraculous healing abilities; devotees believe that if any part of their body is wounded, sincere prayer to the goddess will bring swift recovery. In gratitude, those healed bring soil from their homes to lay before her shrine.
Near the temple flows the legendary Triveni canal, which, despite the summer heat, never runs dry. Locals say that its surface resembles a braid, creating an illusion of three intertwining streams. The canal is believed to harbour deep, unknown chasms, rendering it a place few dare to venture into.
Birbhum’s mystic lands remind us that the journey to the divine is both vast and intimate, where every shrine holds the essence of the universe.
The image of Devi Bongkeshwari is crafted from stone, an embodiment of her enduring strength and power. Folklore suggests that it was Harish Bandyopadhyay, an executive engineer from the canal department, who first installed the goddess’s image—a form that closely resembles the fierce icon of Devi Kali. The temple’s sanctum hosts her stone image, accompanied by representations of two ancient snakes said to be her celestial guardians. Over time, animal sacrifice has become an aspect of worship here, though this was not part of the temple’s initial rituals. Alongside the Bongkeshwari temple are other sacred sites within Bongkeshwaritala, including shrines dedicated to Shmashan Kali, Bishalakshi, and Shiva, each adding to the sacred aura that envelops this holy site.
Every detail of Devi Bongkeshwari’s domain, from the stone idol to the ever-flowing canal, speaks of her mystic presence, drawing countless pilgrims who come seeking blessings, healing, and the divine grace that pervades Kalikshetra.
