Jalpesh Temple
Jalpesh Temple is an important Hindu temple in West Bengal, India, dedicated to Bhairava as Jalpesh, a form of Lord Shiva. Founded in the 16th century and rebuilt multiple times by various rulers, it is a significant pilgrimage site, particularly during the Mahashivratri festival. The temple is situated on the banks of the Jarda river.
Key Facts
- ›Dedicated to Bhairava as Jalpesh, a form of Shiva.
- ›Founded in 1524 by Bishwa Singha, father of Maharaja Nara Narayan.
- ›Rebuilt in 1563 and again in 1663 by King Pran Narayan.
- ›The main festival celebrated is Mahashivratri, attracting hundreds of thousands of pilgrims.
- ›Has been under the supervision of the Raikats of Baikunthapur since 1621 AD.
- ›Restored in 1899 by Rani Jagadeswari Devi.
Bhairava As Jalpesh
- Important Hindu Pilgrimage Site
- Site of One of West Bengal's Oldest Fairs
- Historical Religious Site With Multiple Reconstructions
Koch Dynasty, Raikats of Baikunthapur
Mahashivratri, Shravani Mela
Bishwa Singha, King Pran Narayan, Rani Jagadeswari Devi
Jarda River
About Jalpesh Temple
Jalpesh Temple is a significant Hindu religious site located in West Bengal, India, dedicated to Bhairava as Jalpesh, a manifestation of Lord Shiva. Situated on the banks of the Jarda river, approximately 7–8 km from Mainaguri town, the temple holds considerable historical and religious importance.
History and Construction
The temple's establishment dates back to 1524 when it was founded by Bishwa Singha, the father of Maharaja Nara Narayan of Cooch Behar. The structure underwent significant rebuilding efforts over the centuries. Bishwa Singha himself rebuilt the temple in 1563, and later, King Pran Narayan undertook another reconstruction in 1663. Following a declaration of independence by Mahidev Raikut in 1621 AD, which ended direct obedience to the Koch dynasty, the temple came under the supervision of the Raikats of Baikunthapur. A notable restoration occurred on January 30, 1899, by Rani Jagadeswari Devi, wife of King Jagendra Deva Raikut.
Deity and Worship
The principal deity enshrined is Bhairava in the form of Jalpesh. Within the sanctum, a Shivalinga known as 'Anadi' is also present, signifying the deep reverence for Shiva.
Festivals and Significance
Jalpesh Temple is renowned for its vibrant festivals, with Mahashivratri being the most prominent. This occasion draws hundreds of thousands of devotees who undertake pilgrimages during July–August and February–March to worship Lord Shiva. The temple also hosts the Shravani Mela during the month of Shravan. A famous fair, considered one of the oldest in West Bengal, has been held here on the occasion of Shiva Ratri since the temple's construction in the 17th century. Historically, this fair was a venue for elephant trading and attracted visitors from Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and other neighboring regions.
Recent Events
In April 2015, an earthquake measuring between 6.9 and 7.8 on the Richter scale struck the Jalpaiguri district, causing damage to Jalpesh Temple. Numerous cracks appeared on its walls and spire as a result of the tremor.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the primary deity worshipped at Jalpesh Temple?
The primary deity worshipped at Jalpesh Temple is Bhairava as Jalpesh, who is considered a form of Lord Shiva. Inside the temple, there is also a Shivalinga known as 'Anadi'.
When was Jalpesh Temple founded and by whom?
Jalpesh Temple was founded in 1524 by Bishwa Singha, who was the father of Maharaja Nara Narayan of Cooch Behar. The temple has undergone several reconstructions since its initial founding.
What are the main festivals celebrated at Jalpesh Temple?
The main festival celebrated at Jalpesh Temple is Mahashivratri. Pilgrims also visit in July-August and February-March to worship Lord Shiva. The Shravani Mela is held during the month of Shravan.
Where is Jalpesh Temple located?
Jalpesh Temple is located on the banks of the Jarda river, approximately 7–8 km from Mainaguri town in the Indian state of West Bengal.
Has Jalpesh Temple been affected by natural disasters?
Yes, an earthquake in the Jalpaiguri district on April 26, 2015, caused numerous cracks in the walls and spire of the ancient Jalpesh Temple. The earthquake's magnitude was reported between 6.9 and 7.8 on the Richter scale.
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