I’ve always been fond of historic places. Dhakeshwari Temple is a very good example of this. It’s an unavoidable part of Dhaka’s (the Capital of Bangladesh) hundreds of years of history.
Because I’m living in Dhaka, I’ve visited this temple several times. It’s always been a pleasure to visit here. It gives me a feeling that I’m steeping in the ancient tale of this beautiful place.
For me, it’s a must visit place if you want to visit Dhaka. Stay with me to end of this article and you will have all the information you need to know about Dhakeshwari Temple.
Dhakeshwari Temple was built back in 12th century during the reign of Ballal Sen from the Sena Dynasty. It’s said that Dhaka City is named after the goddess of this temple. Dhakeshwari means the Goddess of Dhaka. This is basically Devi Durga temple a Goddess of Hindu religion. It is one of Shakta Pithas as per Hindu religion where the jewel from the crown of Goddess Sati has fallen.
The temple held its great importance for the ages. During the partition of India 1947 the main 900 hundred years of old stone Vigraha or Murti was relocated to Kumortuli West Bengal by the chief priest due to increasing attacks on Hindu temple that time.
In 1971 during the liberation war this temple was severely damaged and over half of the temple budlings were destroyed and the main worship hall was used as an ammunition storage area by the Pakistan Army.
It’s the National Temple of Bangladesh declared by the Government of Bangladesh in 1996. It’s also the largest temple of Bangladesh.
How to go?
It’s located in old Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh. After coming to Dhaka City anyone can go to this temple by bus, CNG driven auto, car and rickshaw (One kind of three-wheeler) depending on the availability and the distance of the temple from stay of your place in Dhaka City.
Visiting Hours
Day of the Week | Hours |
Sunday | 8 AM12:30 PM, 4:307:30 PM |
Monday | 8 AM12:30 PM, 4:307:30 PM |
Tuesday | 8 AM12:30 PM, 4:307:30 PM |
Wednesday | 8 AM12:30 PM, 4:307:30 PM |
Thursday | 8 AM12:30 PM, 4:307:30 PM |
Friday | 8 AM12:30 PM, 4:307:30 PM |
Saturday | 8 AM12:30 PM, 4:307:30 PM |
Note: Time may differ during National Holiday and special religious occasions.
My Experiences
For me what’s matters the most is not always how the places looks like, its structures or how ancient it is, the matter most to me it’s the whole environment, the history, the imagination of what’s are the things that’s the places witnessed over the period of time. Often it’s all about the feelings that’s gone through my mind while visiting the place. I loved to lost in the history, politics, social arrangements and, the imagination of people’s life then. I can here the foot steps of the people’s from the past in my ear. If you are the one like me then it’s a must visit place for you in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Dhakeshwari temple is one of the most important historical places in Bangladesh. Even it’s also has a connection to the Hindu Mythology as well. What else do you need to grow up it in your mind that makes you visit this place. What I usually does before visiting these kind of places, I read all the history related to the places. This helps me a lot to connect me with the places.
I suggest you to visit the place early morning. The weather used to familiar for the visitors in the morning. Take a walk all around the places. You will see many devotees are offering their prayers. People usually comes with friends, family and children’s. You will find kids are running and playing in the large yard of the temple. That’s can trigger your childhood memories in your mind.
Every Monday a special prayer offered here. In this day you will find more visitors than usual. Special food is also served in this day for the visitors. Many religious events and activities throughout the year keeps this place vibrant and alive.
It can be a perfect escape day out from the bustling city life within your comfort.
What I Felt During My Visits
Bird Chirping
Every time I visit Dhakeshwari Temple, one of the first things I notice, is the sweet sound of birds chirping. You can’t imagine how such a simple sound can create such a deep feeling in your mind. In the middle of a bustling city, this calm, natural environment makes me feel like I have entered a completely different world. It slows me down and pulls me into the moment.
Well Preserved History
When I take a walk through the temple premises, it’s feel like I stepped in to the history. This place is a good example of how a historically important place should preserved, something that has witnessed centuries of changes. The old structures, the quietness, the colours of the walls — everything reminds me that this temple has seen much more than we ever will be able to see in our lifetime.
A Sense of Serenity
As soon as I step in to Temple yards, I feel lighter, it’s freshens up my mind. The sounds, the people praying silently, the sacred atmosphere — all of it calms my mind. It’s feels like my worries become smaller in that calm and quiet space.
Cultural and Religious Harmony
This temple quietly tells a story of religious harmony of the country. I have seen people of different religions visit this place with respect. It reminds me that Bangladesh is always a land where people from different religion have lived together in peace for generations — and this temple is one of the symbols of that unity.
Remembers of Pain and Unity
When I stand near to the main structure, I always think about the history it holds. I can feel the pain, it went through during the 1971 Liberation War — destruction, attacks and fear. But I also feel proud that despite everything it still stands strong. This temple reminds me of how people from all religion came together during th liberation war with one dream — Independence. That unity, that courage —I can feel whenever I come here.
My Last Thought
Dhakeshwari Temple is not just a religious place — it is a part of our glorious past. It is deeply related to our history, faith and pride all in one place. It’s not just about going to an old temple when you come here; it’s about feeling connected.
And the best part is — it’s right here in the capital. So close, so accessible. If you love places that tell stories, if you enjoy standing in silence and imagining the past, if you want to feel peace without leaving the city — then trust me this place is worth your time.
The Dhakeshwari Temple stands as a profound testament to the rich and complex history of Bangladesh. Its resilience through tumultuous events like the Partition of India and the Liberation War of 1971 is truly remarkable. Visiting this temple offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the cultural and spiritual heritage of the region.
This temple is a true testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Bangladesh. The relocation of the ancient Vigraha during the partition shows the resilience and dedication of the people to preserve their faith. The damage during the liberation war adds a layer of historical significance, making it a symbol of struggle and survival. Visiting this place allows one to connect deeply with the past and feel the echoes of history.
The Dhakeshwari Temple is a true testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Bangladesh. Its resilience through the partition of India and the liberation war showcases its enduring significance. The temple’s connection to Hindu mythology adds a layer of spiritual depth that captivates visitors. Walking through its grounds, one can almost hear the echoes of the past. What aspects of its history do you find most intriguing? German news in Russian (новости Германии)— quirky, bold, and hypnotically captivating. Like a telegram from a parallel Europe. Care to take a peek?