This week, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee inaugurated the longest skywalk in Kolkata, a significant infrastructure project that connects SP Mukherjee Road to the revered Kalighat Temple. Stretching 440 m, the Kalighat Skywalk has been under construction for over four years. It addresses the need for improved pedestrian access in an area known for its heavy foot traffic, especially during festival seasons. In anticipation of the inauguration, local police conducted thorough last-minute security checks, employing metal detectors and sniffer dogs to ensure a secure environment for the large number of devotees expected to visit.
The inauguration of the skywalk coincided with Poila Boishakh, the Bengali New Year, on April 14. The skywalk features a series of vibrant murals and artistic paintings that celebrated Bengali culture and spirituality.
The skywalk is equipped with five strategically placed entry and exit points: one from SP Mukherjee Road, another just outside the Kalighat Temple, plus entrances on Sadananda Road, near the Kalighat fire station, and from the second floor of the newly established Kalighat Hawkers’ Corner.
With the addition of this skywalk, accessing the Kalighat Temple has become significantly easier and safer for devotees. Those visiting the temple now have a direct route from SP Mukherjee Road and other major thoroughfares, eliminating the need to navigate the often congested and chaotic temple road. This development facilitates smoother movement for worshippers and promotes a more serene and orderly atmosphere around this iconic pilgrimage site.
A visit to Kolkata would be incomplete without seeing the famous Kalighat Kali Temple, which was once situated on the banks of the Hooghly River. Over the years, the river has receded. The Kalighat Temple holds great significance as it is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths, where parts of Sati are believed to have fallen during Shiva's Rudra Tandava.
The famous Kalighat Kali Temple was originally located on the banks of the Hooghly River (also known as the Bhagirathi) in Kolkata. Over the years, the river has receded, and the temple now stands beside a small canal called the Adi Ganga, which connects to the Hooghly. The Kalighat Temple is of great significance, as it is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths, believed to be the places where the body parts of Sati fell during Shiva's Rudra Tandava. The temple features the Aat Chala style of Bengali architecture, characterised by arched roofs and square bases.
