Ancient Hindu Temples of Bangladesh: Sacred Sites with a Long, Turbulent History

Bangladesh: Bangladesh is home to several ancient Hindu temples that have stood for centuries. These sites are deeply tied to Hindu beliefs, local culture and the region’s long history of spiritual traditions. Some are linked to the ancient Shakti Peeth legend, where parts of the goddess Sati’s body are believed to have fallen on earth, making each location sacred for devotees. 

Here’s a closer look at the most important temples and what makes each of them unique.

Dhakeshwari Temple: What Makes It Bangladesh’s National Temple?

Dhakeshwari Temple in Dhaka is widely regarded as the national Hindu temple of Bangladesh. The name means "Goddess of Dhaka." It holds a special place in the hearts of the Hindu community and is traditionally considered one of the holy Shakti Peeth sites. Long ago, sacred gems associated with Sati's crown were believed to have fallen here.

Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple: Why Is It a Sacred Shakti Peetha?

Another historic shrine is the Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple in Satkhira district. This temple dates back many centuries and is believed to be one of the 51 Shakti Peeths, where the palm of Sati’s hand is said to have fallen. Over time, rulers such as Lakshman Sen and Pratapaditya renovated the site, and it has remained a focus of worship in southwestern Bangladesh.

In recent years, the Jeshoreshwari Temple also drew attention for a theft that upset many devotees. A silver and gold-plated crown, gifted by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit in 2021, was reported stolen in 2024. Local police are investigating and reviewing CCTV footage to find those responsible. 

Ramna Kali Mandir: What Is Its Tragic Legacy?

Ramna Kali Mandir in Dhaka was one of Bangladesh’s most prominent temples before 1971. The temple, dedicated to Goddess Kali, was a historic landmark near Suhrawardy Udyan. During the Bangladesh Liberation War, the temple was destroyed by the Pakistan Army, and many people taking refuge there were killed. The incident remains a painful chapter in the nation’s history. Today, a smaller shrine stands near the original site, and reconstruction efforts have been ongoing to restore its heritage and honour those lost.

Bhawanipur Shakti Peetha: Why Is It a Sacred Shakti Peetha?

Another historic shrine is the Bhawanipur Shakti Peetha in Bogura district. This temple dates back many centuries and is believed to be one of the 51 Shakti Peeths, where the palm of Sati’s left ankle ornament (or left ear/rib, according to some traditions) is believed to have fallen. 

Why do these temples matter today?

Beyond their spiritual value, these temples are living links to Bangladesh’s layered past. They reflect centuries of architectural styles, religious devotion, and the blending of cultural traditions in the Bengal region. Pilgrims and tourists visit these sites to pay respects, understand history, and connect with a religious legacy that predates modern borders.