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When the sound of conch shells and slogans of ‘Jai Shri Ram’ swelled in the streets of Kolkata, its first sound stopped on a 300 year old door frame. Before the historic road show in North Kolkata, Prime Minister Narendra Modi bowed his head in the court where the devotional voice of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa once echoed. this is the court ‘Thanthaniya Kalibari’ Where the history of the year 1703 still breathes in the air. When PM Modi stood in front of the awakened statue of Maa Siddheshwari with a tilak on his head and a lamp of devotion in his hands, he looked not just a politician but an exclusive worshipper. This is the same temple on whose walls it is still written – ‘Shankarar Hriday Majhe, Kali Viraje’. But the most unique thing about this temple is the tradition, which has challenged dogmatic beliefs for centuries. Here ‘Daab-Chingadi’ is offered to the Mother Goddess. From this center of faith, spirituality and ancient identity of Bengal, PM Modi has given a divine touch to his election campaign.

Thanthaniya Kalibari: 300 years old glorious history

This temple was established in 1703, making it one of the oldest and revered Kali temples in Kolkata. Its more than 320-year-old heritage predates the city of Kolkata taking its modern form. Here Maa Kali is worshiped as ‘Maa Siddheshwari’. There is an unwavering belief among the devotees that the presiding deity here is ‘Jagrat’ and every wish made with a true heart is fulfilled here. Swami Ramakrishna Paramahansa often used to come to this temple and sing hymns absorbed in the devotion of Maa Siddheshwari.

Why is non-vegetarian food offered to the Mother Goddess?

Thanthaniya Kalibari is one of the few Shaktipeeths and temples in India where non-vegetarian offerings are made to the Goddess. There is a very special story hidden behind this unique tradition. It is said that the tradition of offering non-vegetarian food to the Mother Goddess was started by Ramakrishna Paramhansa himself. He prayed to Mother Siddheshwari for the speedy recovery of Brahmanand Keshav Chandra Sen. ‘Dab-chingadi’ (shrimp cooked in coconut) Had offered. From then till today this tradition is unbroken. When Ramakrishna Dev himself fell ill, his followers prayed for his health in this temple and made non-vegetarian offerings to the goddess.

What is the political and cultural significance of Modi’s visit?

Prime Minister Modi’s visit to this temple before the road show is not only being considered a religious ritual but also a deep cultural message. Showing respect for the identity of ‘Maa Kali’ and Bengali culture has always been a big issue in Bengal politics. By choosing a historical and spiritual place like Thanthaniya Kalibari, PM Modi has honored the ancient roots of Kolkata and the heritage associated with the Ramakrishna Mission. Experts believe that this step is a big sign towards further strengthening their cultural acceptance among the Bengali society.