Bahula Shakti Peeth, Katwa – Embrace the Divine Left Arm of Sati
Located in Katwa of Burdwan district, West Bengal, the Bahula Shakti Peeth is honored as the spot where the left arm of Goddess Sati fell. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Bahula, also known as Bahulakshi, revered for her maternal love, protection, and power to remove negativity.
🕉 Mythological Significance
According to the Daksha Yagna legend, Goddess Sati immolated herself, and when Lord Shiva carried her body, various parts fell on earth, forming sacred Shakti Peethas. At this site in Katwa, her left arm (bahu) is believed to have fallen. Today, devotees worship Goddess Bahula for strength, healing, and maternal blessings.
📜 Historical Overview
- Medieval Era: Records mention Bahula as a local tribal deity integrated into mainstream Shakti worship under Hindu kings.
- 18th–19th Century: The temple received patronage and reconstruction support from the Bengal Maharajas.
- Modern Era: Managed by a local temple committee; popular among regional pilgrims but peaceful and less crowded than major Peethas.
🛕 Temple Features & Worship
- Deity: Goddess Bahula, depicted in a serene motherly form, sometimes accompanied by a reclining pose statue.
- Sanctum: Houses a sacred ḍaka (anointing pot) believed to contain holy water from ancestral blessings.
- Architecture: Bengali-style ek-ratna structure with a single gilded spire.
- Rituals:
- Daily abhishek, aarti, and red hibiscus offerings
- Mantra recitation and group bhajans
- Special worship during Navratri, Durga Puja, and Magh Mela
🗺 Travel & Access Guide
- Location: Katwa, Purba Bardhaman District, West Bengal
- By Train: Katwa Railway Station – on the Bandel–Katwa branch line
- By Road: Katwa town well-connected via West Bengal State Transport buses and private coaches
- Nearest Major Station: Bardhaman Junction (~34 km)
- Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata (~180 km)
🩺 Health & Safety
- Local Clinic: Katwa State General Hospital — walkable from temple
- Common Concerns: Heat and humidity — carry bottled water, sunscreen
- Essentials to Bring: ORS, paracetamol, small first-aid kit
- Baggage Advice: Compact daypack to carry temple offerings and water
🗣 Languages & Guides
- Local Language: Bengali
- Others: Hindi and English widely understood
- Guides: Temple volunteers offer basic explanations and history
⚠️ Etiquette & Rules
- Modest attire encouraged (no sleeveless or overly casual clothing)
- Footwear must be removed before entering the sanctum
- Photography allowed outside the sanctum only
- Quiet atmosphere during worship; maintain respectful silence
👥 Who Can Visit?
| Visitor Type | Notes |
|---|---|
| Families & Children | Safe, calm environment suitable for all ages |
| Solo Devotees | Welcomed warmly by locals |
| Elderly / Differently-abled | Manageable steps, seating in prayer hall |
| Foreign Tourists | Culturally immersive, accessible with basics |
| Ritual Seekers | Mahavidya traditions and Navratri celebrations available |
🛐 FAQ (Only Q&A)
- What mythological event makes this a Shakti Peeth?
Sati’s left arm is believed to have fallen here during Shiva’s grief-filled wanderings. - Who is worshipped at the temple?
Goddess Bahula, a maternal and protective form of Shakti. - Where exactly is this located?
In Katwa, Purba Bardhaman District, West Bengal. - How do I get here?
Reach Katwa by train or bus from Kolkata/Bardhaman; the temple is centrally located in town. - What is the dress code?
Modest traditional clothing; remove footwear before entering. - What are the main festivals celebrated?
Navratri, Durga Puja, Magh Mela, with special pujas and chanting. - Is the temple open to all?
Yes—open to devotees of all religions and nationalities. - Are there facilities like drinking water and toilets?
Yes — available near the temple premises. - When is the best time to visit?
October–April, coinciding with major festivals and pleasant weather. - Any accessibility or health advice?
Manageable steps; carry water and medications for heat.
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