Kamarghat Dwadosh Shiv Mandir

Kinjal Bose

Kamarghat Dwadosh (twelve) Shiva Temples of Prankrishna Chandra Lane was founded by Nilmani Chandra in 1259 Bangabda, which, according to Gregorian calendar dates back to 1852. The locals refer to this as ‘Baro Shiv Mandir’.

The temples are situated on a raised platform within a square shaped paved courtyard following Bengal’s traditional aatchala (eight roofed) style. On entering the courtyard, the first temple on the right is known by the name of ‘Buro Shiv Mandir’. Worship is performed here on a daily basis. On every Monday, there is a large number of devotees visit this temple premises. During Shiva Ratri and Nil Puja, the number of devotees increase manifold.

The Shiva lingas, which were brought from Kanthi are made of kosthipathar (touch stone) and they are cleaned on a regular basis. Beside the Shiva lingam there is a small statue of Nandi, the bull.

Previously, there existed a ghat with a flight of stairs having rooms on both sides by the side of Adi Ganga. The pillars on which the ghat rested had collapsed more than four decades back. There also happened to be a foundation plaque on the ghat and the dates which we now see in the temple, didn’t exist at that time. They were inscribed much later, possibly after the collapse of the ghat. In this connection it is to be mentioned that Chandras are originally the residents of Kamarpara in Behala.

One will come across a large flock of pigeons in the temple courtyard. If anyone visits the temple [remises during high tide, then they are likely to find water from Adi Ganga in the square courtyard.

The temple can be reached by multiple approaches. Those coming from Tollygunge Phari to New Alipore, just after crossing the Tollygunge Bridge take the road on your left which is known as B. L. Saha Road. Carry on straight on this road for about five minutes and ask anybody about Kamarghat Dwadosh Shiv Mandir and they will show you. Or you can simply look for Prankrishna Chandra Lane on your left. Go straight through this lane and towards the end of this lane you will come across Kamarghat Dwadosh Shiv Mandir on your right. Alternately, just after half crossing the Tollygunge Bridge, you will notice that there is a short staircase on your left. Walk down through it and you will find Canal Road just by the side of Adi Ganga. Go straight through this road and after walking for about five minutes you will find Kamarghat Dwadosh Shiv Mandir.