पश्चिम बंगाल
The Seth Banshidhar Jalan Smriti Mandir, situated amidst Howrah s lively surroundings, was established in 1953 by the illustrious Jalan family. Known fondly as Naya Mandir Notun Mandir , this complex encapsulates not just religious reverence but also has significant cultural and social relevance, making it a must-visit for those exploring Kolkata and Bengal. This temple complex, gracing the western bank of River Hooghly, boasts exquisite architecture in the Utkal style. On the walls of the temple invocations to deities are etched in the Hindi language on slabs of marble. The main temple honors Lord Bangeshwar Mahadev with adjacent shrines housing the revered deities like Shri Lakshminarayanm, Goddess Bhagwati Parvati with Lord Ganesh, Lord Hanuman, Goddess Durga, Shyam Prabhu, Rani Sati Dadiji, Ram Durbar and Radha Krishna images. The temple s allure extends to the Seth Bansidhar Jalan bathing ghats, providing devotees with a peaceful riverside experience.
A notable addition is the colossal 61 feet tall Lord Shiva statue, unveiled in 2015, symbolizing spiritual grandeur. With indoor and outdoor auditoriums, the complex hosts revered scholars and conducts various festivals like Mahashivratri, Hanuman Jayanti, and Ganga Dussehra. The weekly Ganga aarti is a cherished ritual, adding cultural richness to the region. The temple complex s recent upgrades, including a covered area for discourses inaugurated in 2023, align with its goal to serve as a hub for spiritual and communal gatherings. The inclusion of replicas of the twelve Jyotiling shrines adds to its significance, offering pilgrims a unique experience. Furthermore, the complex caters to visitors with accommodations, a goshala, and plans for a jetty, enhancing accessibility and connectivity. The temple s immaculate maintenance and diverse offerings make it a hidden gem, deserving a visit from tourists in West Bengal.
By Air: The nearest airport to Seth Banshidhar Jalan Smriti Mandir is Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose international airport, Kolkata.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Seth Banshidhar Jalan Smriti Mandir is Howrah Station
By Road: Buses are available from Howrah station. Other vehicles are also available to reach this place.