Baranagar GangeswarTemple, West Bengal

Address

Baranagar GangeswarTemple, Baranagar, Murshidabad District West Bengal- 742122

Diety

Gangeswar

Introduction

The Gangeswar Temple, also known as the Jor Bangla Temple, is a dedicated shrine to Lord Shiva located in Baranagar Village in the Murshidabad District of West Bengal, India. This temple, situated on the banks of the Hooghly River, is not only a place of worship but also an architectural and historical gem.

Bengal Style of Architecture: The Gangeswar Temple is celebrated as one of the finest specimens of the Bengal style of temple architecture. This style is known for its unique features and intricate terracotta ornamentation.
Monument of National Importance: The temple holds great historical and architectural significance. It has been recognized and classified as a “Monument of National Importance” by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
Built Under Patronage of Rani Bhabani: The Baranagar Temples, including the Gangeswar Temple, were constructed under the patronage of Rani Bhabani, the Queen of Natore, in the 18th century CE. It is said that her vision was to build 108 temples at Baranagar along the banks of the Hooghly River to elevate the status of the town to that of Varanasi. Unfortunately, many of the temples have not survived the test of time.
Construction Date: The Gangeswar Temple, which is also referred to as Jor Bangla Temple, is believed to have been built in 1753 CE by Rani Bhabani.
Architectural Features: The temple is characterized by its distinct Dochala hut-shaped Bangla style, where two structures are connected as pairs (Jor). The temple is named “Jor Bangla” because of this unique architectural feature.
Three Shiva Lingas: Within the temple, there are three Shiva Lingas, each with its own name: Gangeswar, Kastureswar, and Nageswar. Lord Shiva is the principal deity worshipped here.
Archways and Terracotta Ornamentation: The entrance to the temple features three archways, and the spaces above these arches are adorned with depictions of horses and floral motifs. The pillars and exterior walls of the temple are richly decorated with terracotta panels, depicting scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Krishna Leela, and various aspects of social life.
Bengali Temple Architecture: The Gangeswar Temple showcases the curvilinear form of the roof, which is characteristic of Bengali temple architecture. This style is known for its intricate designs and artistic elements.

The Gangeswar Temple is not only a place of religious worship but also a testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the region. Its architectural features and terracotta ornamentation make it a significant site for history, art, and spirituality.