The bustling city of Dhaka is home to numerous temples, many of which have stood for centuries, bearing witness to a significant part of its rich history.
These sacred sites are deeply intertwined with the cultural and religious traditions of various communities, and they quietly reflect the architectural styles of their time. Despite enduring numerous challenges over the years, many of these temples still uphold traditional ceremonies.
Let's explore ten such temples in Dhaka and its nearby areas.
Dhakeshwari National Temple
Located in Puran Dhaka, Dhakeshwari National Temple is one of the largest Hindu temples in Bangladesh and the first Hindu temple in the city. It was founded in the 12th century by Ballal Sena, a ruler from the Sena dynasty.
According to legend, Ballal Sena was born in a forest near the Buriganga River. During his childhood, he discovered an idol of Goddess Durga, and he believed that the goddess protected him from the dangers of the wilderness. After ascending to the throne, he built a temple on the spot where he found the idol. Since the idol was hidden deep within the forest, the goddess came to be known as “Dhakeshwari,” meaning “Goddess of Dhaka” and the temple also became famous by this name.
The Dhakeshwari Temple complex consists of multiple temples and structures, with the main buildings painted in red and bright yellow tones. The four Shiva temples on the premises are all designed in a similar style. Every year, the largest Durga Puja celebration in the capital is held at this temple, and the Janmashtami procession also begins from its grounds.
Joy Kali Temple
Situated between Thathari Bazar and Wari in Old Dhaka, the Joy Kali Temple is the focal point of the 24 No Joy Kali Temple Road. This nearly 400-year-old temple was established in the Bengali year 1001, under the supervision of Nawab Tulsi Narayan Ghosh and Naw Narayan Ghosh.
The temple features a mosaic floor and tiled walls adorned with images of Hindu deities. At the entrance, a symbol of “Om” can be seen, representing divine energy.
The structure is primarily square-shaped, with thick and heavy columns. The upper walls are designed with arches, adding to the temple's architectural significance.
Ramna Kali Temple
Situated across from the Bangla Academy and along the outskirts of Dhaka's Ramna Park, the Ramna Kali Temple complex covers around 2.25 acres. Legend has it that approximately 500 years ago, a monk named Gopalgiri established a spiritual retreat, or akhra, in Dhaka. About 200 years later, another prominent monk, Haricharan Giri, constructed the main temple.
Throughout its history, the temple has seen significant architectural changes. A large pond in front of the temple was once a popular swimming spot for both visitors and worshippers. While the temple's primary festival is Kali Puja, Durga Puja is also celebrated with great festivity.
Dhamrai Jagannath Roth
Situated in Dhaka's Dhamrai Upazila, the Dhamrai Jagannath Rath Temple is widely respected throughout the country. The annual Rath Yatra festival, held during the month of Ashar, attracts thousands of people from diverse backgrounds, creating a large and inclusive gathering.
The temple was first established in 1672, with the rath (chariot) originally made from bamboo. In 1933, the chariot was reconstructed into a three-story structure, standing 60 feet tall and 45 feet wide, featuring 32 large wooden wheels.
After its renovation in 2010, the rath now measures 27 feet in both height and width, and the number of wheels has been reduced to 15. The three-tiered chariot is beautifully decorated with various statues of deities, reflecting its significant transformation.
Siddheshwari Kali Temple
Established in 1441, the Siddheshwari Kali Temple is the origin of the name of Dhaka's Siddheshwari area. It is believed that a man named Chand Rai founded the temple. The main attractions are the idol of Goddess Kali and the blood sandalwood tree in the courtyard. The temple itself is adorned with tall, elegant columns.
The major festival celebrated here is the Durga Puja during the Sharadiya season, which is observed with great festivity.
Ramakrishna Math and Mission
Situated in Tikatuli, Puran Dhaka the Ramakrishna Math and Mission is a branch of the Ramakrishna Mission, closely linked to India's Belur Math. Just a 30-minute walk from Gulistan Bus Stand, this spiritual site was founded in dedication to the Ramakrishna-Vivekananda movement. On February 13, 1916, the temple was established by Swami Brahmananda and Swami Premananda, leaders of the Ramakrishna Mission.
The temple accommodates around 600 people, and its hexagonal hall features five entrances, offering views from all sides except the back. The central dome is flanked by six smaller domes, adding to its unique architecture.
Key festivals celebrated here include Durga Puja, as well as the birth anniversaries of Sri Sarada Devi, Swami Vivekananda, and Sri Ramakrishna.
Swamibagh Temple
Formerly known as Sri Sri Radha Govinda Temple, this temple was established in 1899 under the leadership of Shri Rudra Tridandi Tripurlinga Swami and is also known as Swamibagh Ashram.
In 2000, the temple was handed over to ISKCON Bangladesh by the then-caretaker, Shri Yashoda Nandan Acharya. Since then, it has operated from 79 Swamibagh Road in Gendaria.
Every year, the grand Jagannath Rath Yatra begins at this temple and concludes at Dhakeshwari National Temple.
Khelaram Datar Temple
Situated in Nawabganj Upazila, the Khelaram Datar Temple is a significant archaeological site in Bangladesh. While its exact origins are unknown, experts estimate it was built in the late 19th or early 20th century based on its architectural style.
According to legend, Khelaram, a notorious bandit leader from Nawabganj, constructed the temple. He was famous for robbing the rich and giving to the poor, and it is said he used the temple to hide his loot and for worship.
The temple's design combines traditional Bengali architecture with European elements. Only the second story of the structure remains visible, as much of the ground floor has been buried.
Sri Sri Bura Shivdham
Built during the Mughal Emperor Jahangir's reign, this temple is one of the oldest, largest, and most beautiful in Dhaka. Located just north of the Central Shaheed Minar, the area around the temple is known as Shibbari due to its presence.
In 1912, the temple was heavily damaged by a storm and was later restored by Sir Vijay Chand, the then-Raja of Burdwan. The temple's tall red spire and intricate designs make it a striking architectural landmark.
Throughout the year, the temple hosts various religious festivals, particularly during Shivaratri.
Lakshmi Narayan Temple
Dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and built in the Bengali year 1056, this Hindu temple is located in Nawabpur, Dhaka. The temple walls are intricately carved with stories from Hindu mythology, and the complex also includes a private residence.
Unlike most temples, it lacks a spire and is made entirely of plaster. The walls are tiled with images of deities, and the marble idols inside were brought from Jaipur.
In conclusion, the temples in Dhaka and its surrounding areas are more than just places of worship; they are living embodiments of Bangladesh's rich cultural, religious, and architectural heritage.
Each temple tells a unique story of devotion and resilience.
They not only preserve religious practices but also stand as testaments to the artistry and craftsmanship of past eras, making them integral to understanding the cultural fabric of Bangladesh.