Kalanka Devi Temple, Barshi Takli, Maharashtra

Kalanka Devi Temple, Barshi Takli, Maharashtra

Kalanka Devi Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to goddess Sakthi located in Barshi Takli Town in Barshi Takli Taluk in Akola District in Maharashtra, India. The temple is one of the state protected monuments in Maharashtra declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

History

The temple was initially built as Vishnu temple by Gamiyaya, a minister of Hemadrideva of an unknown royal family of Tekkali in 1177 CE. Later, the temple got converted into Bhavani temple. Barshi Takli was called as Tekkali / Tankavati during ancient times. Barshi Takli was the capital of an unknown royal family during 12^th century CE. A damaged Sanskrit inscription dating back to 1177 CE of King Hemadrideva of an unknown royal family can be seen in the temple. Hemadrideva ruled over the region with Tekkali (modern Barshi Takli) as his capital. This inscription records that Gamiyaya, a minister of Hemadrideva, constructed a temple of Vishnu, a tank and a well at Tekkali.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east, but the entrance is from the north. The temple follows Hemadpanthi style of architecture and stands over a raised platform. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala and sabha mandapa. The sabha mandapa can be entered from the northern side. The mandapa is rectangular on plan and the sanctum is star shaped. The ceiling of the mandapa is supported by four intricately carved pillars.

The northern side of the sabha mandapa has parapet wall with seating arrangement. There are two half pillars and pilasters supporting the roof on the northern side. The eastern wall of the sabha mandapa has two miniature windows to allow the first rays of the sun to fall on the head of the goddess in the sanctum.

The ceilings of the sabha mandapa are intricately decorated. The sanctum enshrines an image of the presiding deity, Kalanka Devi / Bhavani. The exterior of the temple is carved with images of various deities, animals, floral motifs and geometrical patterns. Images of Ganesha, Mahakali and Mahishasura Mardini can be seen in the temple premises.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 2 Kms from Barshi Takli New Bus Stand, 2 Kms from Barshi Takli Railway Station, 16 Kms from Akola, 32 Kms from Shelu Bazar and 254 Kms from Nagpur Airport. The temple is situated on Akola to Shelu Bazar route.

Location