Birla Mandir Kolkata

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Tags : Temple

Timings : 5:30 AM - 11:00 AM, 4:30 PM - 9:00 PM, All days open

Time Required : 1-2 hours

Entry Fee : Free

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Birla Mandir, Kolkata Overview

Birla Mandir is a stunning structure that adorns the streets of Ballygunge, Kolkata dedicated to Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha. An imposing structure amalgamating traditional style of architecture with modern reflections, the temple is the perfect specimen of craftsmanship and engineering genius. The construction of this splendid edifice began in the year 1970 and after meticulous work spanning over 26 years, it reached its completion on 21st February 1996. The unique patterns on the wall of the temple are sculpted by the artisans specially called from Agra, Mirzapur and Muzaffarpur. Although the chief deities of the temple is Krishna and Radha, other Gods revered here are Lord Ganesha, Lord Hanuman, Lord Shiva, ten avatars of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Durga.

The magnificent structure of the Birla Temple is hard to miss once you reach its vicinity. Towering domes covered in intricate stonework and design adorn the main facade of the temple, while the complex itself is a pearl white marble marvel. In addition to these, some artefacts in the temple are made up of silver and Belgian glass which impart a unique divinity to the shrine. As the dusk approaches, the beautiful Birla Mandir sight to behold adorned with electric diyas and gleaming chandeliers. The continuous chanting and soft music only add to its spiritual charm. With spectacular architecture, devotees and visitors come here from all around the globe, especially during Janmashtami which is celebrated here with great vigour.

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History of Birla Mandir

The Birla Mandir has been built by the ‘Birla family’, the famous industrialist family of India. The construction of the temple began in 1970 and it took 26 years to complete the indelible structure. The temple was inaugurated on the 21st of February, 1996 by Dr. Karan Singh. The Pran Prathistha ceremony of the idols was done by Swami Chidananda Maharaj. The temple is dedicated to the consortium of Lord Krishna and his beloved Radha.

Architecture of Birla Mandir

The exterior of the Birla Mandir complex has been conjured out of sandstone, while the interior is ornamented from white marble. Designed by the architect Nomi Bose, the structure is 160 feet tall and is spread across 44 kathas of land area. Its inspiration is said to have been drawn from the famous Lingaraj Temple and Laxmi Narayan temple of Bhubaneshwar. Its walls depict the pictorial presentation of shlokas and scenes from Bhagavad Geeta engraved on the stone along with intricate Rajasthani style designs. The electric diyas and stunning chandeliers adorning the ceiling is the perfect specimen of ultimate craftsmanship. Apart from the idols of Radha - Krishna, idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga have also been installed inside the sanctum.

Tips For Visiting Birla Mandir

1. Cameras and phones are not allowed inside the temple complex.
2. Taking pictures and videos is strictly prohibited.
3. Wandering around the verandah is also not allowed.
4. For first time visitors, it is suggested to visit the temple in evening as the sight it presents is breathtaking.
5. Evening aarti at the temple is enchanting, so plan your visit accordingly.

How To Reach Birla Mandir Kolkata

To reach the Birla Madir from any part of the city, you have various options of taking a local bus, metered taxis and mini buses. The nearest metro stations to the Birla Temple are Rabindra Sadan, Maidan Metro  Station and Kalighat, from where you can hail a taxi or rickshaw to the temple premises.

Birla Mandir Reviews

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Soumita Ghosh

on Birla Mandir 6 years ago
Birla Mandir can be aptly described in one word – serene. You will be required to submit your shoes and other belongings before entering the temple, so I would advise you to carry only the necessary (Read More)items before going there. Photography is not allowed and you will be required to switch off your phones before stepping into the temple. You must maintain silence once you are inside. Any loud noise echoes through the temple and disturbs the peaceful atmosphere surrounding this place. Although the central idol here is that of Radha-Krishna, Birla Mandir also has idols of Lord Shiva, Lord Hanuman, Goddess Durga, and Lord Ganesha. Apart from these, you will also find various depictions of Bhagavad Gita. You can sit inside the temple as long as you want and meditate in silence.

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