Bakranath Temple is one of unique temples which attract the tourists towards its Oriya style of architecture. Known for its hot springs and legends of Rishi Ashtabakra this temple is considered one of the most popular temples which most important pilgrimages of West Bengal. The Bakranath temple, also known as Bakreswar, is one of well known pilgrimages of West Bengal. Located in the Birbhum disrtrict of West Bengal; this village is located at a distance of 6 miles to the north west of Durbajpur railway station on the Andal- saithia railway section of Eastern railway. Besides its scenic beauty the place is popularly known for its legends. Bakreswar is among the 51 shakti piths that was established in the subcontinent. According to the Hindu mythology when sati was deciminated by the chakra of Lord Vishnu, one of her body parts fell on Bakreswar along with Tarapith and Kalighat in Kolkata. As such this place was also included among the legendary shakti piths which is revered along with Tarapith, and Kalighat.
Bakranath temple received its name from the legend according to which once two renowned sages Subrita and Lomas received an invitation for the swayamvar of Lakshmi. On their arrival the host received Rishi Lomas was first received which annoyed the other. So fearful was the anger of the other sage that all his nerves got twisted into eight folds which gave him he name of Ashtabakra muni. Thus disfigured and disillusioned he wondered in the earth till he reached Kashi where he intended to worship Lord Shiva. But on his arrival he was informed by the divine voice that in order to overcome the curse he has to worship Lord Shiva in a place called Gupt Kashi which is located somewhere in the east. This brought Ashtabakra muni to the east and he landed up at Bakreswar where he began to meditate for Lord Shiva for ten thousand years. After being satisfied with his worship lord blessed him for being worshiped before the worship of Lord Shiva. Whosoever will worship him first and Shiva later shall be blessed with all virtues. On the instructions of Lord Shiva the divine temple of Bakreswar was constructed by Vishwakarma the architect of heaven. This created the auspicious Bakranath temple on the eastern shore of Brakreswar River that flows through the state of West Bengal.
Thus known for the legends of Ashtabakra Rishi this is one of the legendary temples of West Bengal. Counted as one of the major shakti piths of West Bengal this is another important temple of West Bengal.
