🛕 Hanseswari Temple, Bansberia
Hanseswari Temple (also spelled Hangseshwari) is a uniquely designed Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Hanseswari, considered a form of Maa Kali. Located in the historical town of Bansberia, this temple is a blend of Tantric symbolism, human anatomy, and traditional Bengali temple architecture.
📖 History & Significance
- Commissioned By: Raja Nrisinhadeb Roy Mahasay in 1799
- Completed By: His wife Rani Shankari, in 1814 after his death
- Deity: Hanseswari Mata, believed to be a manifestation of Adi Shakti/Kali
- Philosophy: Based on Tantrik Satchakrabhed, symbolizing the kundalini system and chakra (energy) points in the human body
🏛️ Architectural Marvel
- Five-story temple structure with 13 minarets, each shaped like lotus buds
- Inspired by the “Tantric Human Anatomy”, representing the five principal parts of the human nervous system:
- Bajraksha
- Ira
- Chitrini
- Pingala
- Sushumna
- Inner chambers follow Yogic philosophies, creating a meditative aura
- Blue-painted Neem wood idol of the goddess with four arms
🕒 Timings
Activity | Time |
---|---|
Temple Opens | 6:00 AM |
Midday Closure | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
Reopens | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
📅 Best Time to Visit
- November to February: Pleasant winter weather and festive season
- Special Occasions:
- Kali Puja
- Navaratri
- Poush Sankranti
🚗 How to Reach Hanseswari Temple
🛤️ By Train:
- From Howrah: Board Katwa or Bardhaman local trains
- Nearest Station: Bansberia Railway Station (10-minute walk to temple)
🚘 By Road:
- From Kolkata: ~50 km via Delhi Road (SH-6) or GT Road
- Local buses and autos are easily available
✈️ By Air:
- Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata (~55 km away)
🛏️ Accommodation
Nearby stays include:
- Guesthouses & hotels in Bandel, Chinsurah, and Hooghly
- For more comfort: hotels in Serampore or Kolkata suburbs
🏞️ Nearby Attractions
Place | Distance | Highlights |
---|---|---|
Ananta Basudev Temple | Next door | Terracotta temple with Vaishnav influence |
Swanbhaba Kali Temple | ~1 km | Another ancient Kali shrine by same royal family |
Chandannagar Strand | ~10 km | Scenic riverbank, colonial heritage |
🙏 What to Expect
- Peaceful and quiet environment
- Modest crowds except during festivals
- Devotional chants, incense, and rituals
- A blend of spirituality and heritage
🔖 Tips for Visitors
- Remove shoes before entering temple
- Respect local customs & dress modestly
- Carry water during summer visits
- Plan early morning or evening visits for cooler weather
- Combine with a half-day tour of Bandel and Hooghly landmarks
Hanseswari Temple is more than a religious site—it’s a philosophical statement in stone and mortar, showcasing how spiritual beliefs, human anatomy, and architecture can come together. Its unique lotus-topped towers and Tantric symbolism make it a must-visit gem in Bengal’s rich temple heritage.
- Address: Bansberia, Hooghly District, West Bengal, India
- Nearest Towns: Bandel (~4 km), Chinsurah (~6 km), Kolkata (~50 km)
- Coordinates: 22.9758° N, 88.4027° E