Bankura, a district in the western part of West Bengal, is known for its rich tribal culture, terracotta temples, and scenic hills. While sites like Bishnupur are famous for their terracotta temple architecture, the remote interior villages of Bankura hide numerous forgotten temples, many in ruins, some still used for worship, and others lost in dense forests or farmlands. This article explores the lost temples of inner Bankura, their cultural significance, and why they deserve documentation and preservation.
Introduction to Inner Bankura’s Temple Heritage
Beyond Bishnupur: An Untapped Sacred Geography
While Bishnupur is a major tourist hub known for temples built by the Malla kings, the inner regions of Bankura—such as Ranibandh, Indpur, Sarenga, Joypur, and Taldangra—house small, undocumented temples that date back centuries. Built with laterite, brick, and stone, these shrines reflect indigenous styles, folk beliefs, and local craftsmanship.
Why These Temples Remain Forgotten
1. Remote Location and Poor Accessibility
Many of these temples are located in tribal belts and forested areas, far from major roads and towns. The lack of infrastructure and poor digital presence contribute to their obscurity.
2. Absence in Historical Records
Unlike the temples of Bishnupur, which were part of royal records and temple chronicles, these village temples were often built by local communities without documentation, making them absent in mainstream historical accounts.
3. Decline of Local Patronage
As villagers migrate to urban areas and traditional patrons disappear, these temples fall into disuse. In some places, the original deity or iconography has been replaced with newer ones, disconnecting the site from its past.
Unique Features of These Lost Temples
Local Architectural Styles
These shrines often follow a rekha deul or char chala design, constructed using locally available laterite stones, mud, or bricks. Many structures lack ornamental work but display primitive terracotta panels, tribal symbols, and unique spire shapes.
Nature-Inspired Settings
Many temples are located near rivers, hills, or ancient banyan trees. They are often protected by sacred groves or jungle patches, reinforcing the connection between nature and worship in rural Bankura.
Deities of Regional Importance
The temples are often dedicated to local forms of Shiva, Kali, Dharmathakur, Manasa, or even tribal gods not found in mainstream Hindu iconography. These deities are revered through oral tradition rather than scriptural references.
Examples of Forgotten Shrines in Inner Bankura
1. Shiva Temple of Bheduasole
Located near Ranibandh, this laterite Shiva temple sits near a dried-up pond. Partially collapsed, the temple still receives offerings during Shivratri. The locals believe the site to be a “tapovan” of a lost sage.
2. Manasa Temple in Shyampur Village
This brick temple is located deep inside Taldangra block and is dedicated to the snake goddess Manasa. It is active only during monsoon festivals, when villagers gather for ritual snake dances and storytelling.
3. Bhairav Shrine in Kankradara Forest
Hidden within the dense forests of Joypur lies a small shrine dedicated to Bhairav (a fierce form of Shiva). The structure is now roofless, but tribal villagers still offer liquor, flowers, and animal figurines during harvest festivals.
4. Shitala Temple in Gosaigram
This neglected temple, located on a mound, is made of unbaked clay and features minimal ornamentation. Believed to be 300 years old, the shrine is associated with disease protection rituals, especially during outbreaks.
Cultural Importance of These Shrines
Oral Traditions and Festivals
Even without written records, these temples are embedded in local folklore. Ballads, folk songs, and seasonal rituals often revolve around these sacred spaces.
- Jhumur and Baul singers incorporate temple legends into their songs
- Ritual storytelling sessions take place around the shrines during Poush Mela or Chaitra Sankranti
Sacred Spaces for Tribal Communities
For many tribal groups like the Santhals, Bhumij, and Mundas, these temples represent both ancestral spirits and protective deities. Rituals are a blend of animist and Hindu practices.
Threats to Their Survival
Environmental Degradation
Forest encroachment, soil erosion, and shifting river courses have physically damaged many of these ancient sites.
Urbanization and Neglect
As new concrete temples are built, older ones are abandoned. Some shrines are now used as storage areas or community dumps due to lack of awareness.
Lack of Preservation Policy
These temples do not fall under ASI or State Archaeology protection lists, leaving them vulnerable to complete ruin.
The Need for Documentation and Revival
Community-Led Restoration
Villagers can be engaged in low-cost preservation programs, especially during annual festivals. Local youth groups and schools can help in cleaning, repairing, and archiving stories linked to the temples.
Inclusion in Heritage Tourism
Small heritage circuits can be developed that include these forgotten temples alongside popular destinations like Bishnupur or Susunia Hills. Guided rural walks and cultural storytelling can attract responsible tourists.
Digital Archiving
Photographic documentation, drone mapping, and digital storytelling can help preserve the legacy of these temples online and connect them with researchers and cultural organizations.
Conclusion
The lost temples of inner Bankura are more than just neglected ruins, they are silent bearers of centuries-old traditions, spiritual memories, and rural craftsmanship. As development spreads and modernity redefines culture, these ancient shrines risk being permanently forgotten. Through community engagement, documentation, and heritage recognition, these sacred spaces can reclaim their place in the cultural map of Bengal.