Exploring Kiriteswari village, the Best Tourism Village of India 2023
The remote Kiriteswari village in West Bengal's Murshidabad district has been a hot topic in recent days after the Union Ministery of Tourism declared Kiriteswari as the "Best Tourism Village of India 2023." Kiriteswari, located about 215 km north of Kolkata became the winner from a total of 795 villages across 31 states and Union Territories that participated in the contest.
Significance
Along with several small handloom businesses, the region also houses the 1,000-year-old Kiriteshwari Temple, one of the 51 shaktipeethas. The shaktipeethas are shrines for Shaktism worship built on the locations where Sati's numerous body parts are believed to have fallen. This ancient Hindu shrine, which consists of the Kiriteswari Temple and the Kiriteswari Gupta Temple, was constructed where Sati's crown (kirit), had fallen.
How to reach the village
The village, which is part of the Nabagram block of Murshidabad, is only two kilometers from Dahapara and 25 km from Behrampore rail station. You can then take a taxi or bus to the settlement. The village is nine kilometers from Palsandamore if you're on NH-34. The temple which is situated on the bank of the Bhagirathi River is connected via ferry service.
Place of cultural harmony
Kiriteswari village thrives as a symbol of cultural and communal harmony. It's remarkable to witness the unity among individuals of diverse faiths. Members of the Muslim community wholeheartedly engage in Hindu religious and cultural events and play an active role in the temple committee. The Muslims willingly contributed a piece of land, without disputes since a portion of it was within the temple premises.
Selection of the village
The selection was made as part of a yearly competition designed to enhance and promote rural culture and way of life in rural communities across the nation. Many village officials say that the cultural setting and harmony could be a reason for the award. This award would hopefully make Kiriteswari village a tourist hub. Currently, only the local tourists visit the place.
