Overview of Birla Mandir in Kolkata
The Birla Mandir, a magnificent building honoring Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha, is located in Ballygunge, Kolkata. The temple is an impressive building that combines classic architecture with contemporary reflections. It is the epitome of engineering brilliance. This magnificent building was meticulously constructed over a 26-year period, starting in 1970, and was finished on February 21, 1996. Artists particularly summoned from Agra, Mirzapur, and Muzaffarpur carve the distinctive designs on the temple’s walls. The ten avatars of Lord Vishnu, Goddess Durga, Lord Ganesha, Lord Hanuman, and Lord Shiva are all venerated here in addition to Krishna and Radha, the temple’s main deities.
Once you are in the area of the Birla Temple, it is difficult to miss the spectacular building. The main facade of the temple is adorned with towering domes that are covered in elaborate brickwork and design, and the entire complex is a wonder of pearl-white marble. In addition to them, some of the temple’s artifacts are fashioned of silver and Belgian glass, which give the shrine a special spirituality. The stunning Birla Mandir is a sight to behold as twilight falls, decorated with electric diyas and sparkling chandeliers. Its spiritual appeal is only enhanced by the constant chanting and soothing music. Devotees and tourists travel here from all over the world because of the breathtaking architecture, especially during Janmashtami, which is celebrated here with tremendous vigor.
Timings of Birla Mandir: 5:30 AM – 11:00 AM, 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM, All days open
Time Required: 1-2 hours
Entry Fee: Free
History of Birla Mandir
The famed Indian business family known as the “Birla family” constructed the Birla Mandir. The temple’s construction took 26 years to complete after it was first started in 1970. The temple was opened on February 21st, 1996, by Dr. Karan Singh. Swami Chidananda Maharaj performed the idols’ Pran Prathistha ritual. The union of Lord Krishna and his beloved Radha is honored in the temple.
Architecture of Birla Mandir
The Birla Mandir complex’s outside is made of sandstone, while its interior is embellished with white marble. The building, which was created by architect Nomi Bose, is 160 feet tall and occupies 44 kathas of space. It is claimed that the well-known Lingaraj Temple and Laxmi Narayan Temple of Bhubaneshwar served as inspiration for it. Its walls have elaborate Rajasthani-style decorations coupled with a graphical portrayal of Bhagavad Geeta scenes and shlokas etched on stone. Electric diyas and gorgeous chandeliers that grace the ceiling are the epitome of exquisite craftsmanship. Along with the statues of Radha and Krishna, the shrine also contains idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga.
Tips For Visiting Birla Mandir
- Photographic and mobile devices are not permitted inside the temple complex.
- It is absolutely forbidden to take photos or films.
- Another prohibited behavior is to wander about the verandah.
- Due to the stunning scenery the temple offers, it is advised for first-time tourists to go there in the evening.
- The temple’s evening aarti is beautiful; schedule your visit accordingly.
How To Reach Birla Mandir Kolkata
You can take a local bus, a metered taxi, or a minibus to go to the Birla Madir from any location in the city. Rabindra Sadan, Maidan Metro Station, and Kalighat are the three closest metro stations to the Birla Temple, and from there you can grab a taxi or rickshaw to the temple’s grounds.
