The Tarapith Maha Shamshan is the cremation ground located next to the Tarapith Temple in Tarapith in West Bengal, India. It is a significant site for Tantric rituals and considered sacred by many Hindus.
The cremation ground is associated with the worship of the goddess Tara, a fierce aspect of the Devi. Tantric practitioners perform spiritual practices and rituals here, believing the Shakti energy is particularly potent. Some Tantric rituals involve meditation or yoga practiced while seated on burning funeral pyres.
Location of the Maha Shamshan
Why Famous?
The Tarapith Maha Shamshan is well-known for its special connections to spirituality, death, and the goddess Tara:
- Tantric Practices: People come here for Tantric rituals, which are about connecting with powerful energy. Tantrics believe the cremation ground has special energy for meditation and spiritual growth. Some even do rituals while sitting on burning pyres.
- Association with Goddess Tara: The cremation ground is near the temple of the fierce goddess Tara. People see it as part of her sacred space. Tara represents overcoming darkness and change, which fits with the themes of death and rebirth.
- Belief in Afterlife: Hindus believe in reincarnation, the idea of the soul living multiple lives. Cremation grounds are where bodies are cremated, letting the soul move on to the next life. The Maha Shamshan being close to the temple reminds people of this cycle.
- Uniqueness and Intensity: The combination of a cremation ground and a place of worship makes Tarapith special. It’s a powerful and intense place that attracts curious visitors. They might come to learn about Tantric practices, explore the spiritual side of death, or simply experience something profound.
- Bamakhepa: Bamakhepa, a renowned mystic from the 18th century, had a strong connection to the Tantric practices of Tarapith. He was considered a siddha, which means he attained spiritual perfection. Bamakhepa spent a lot of time meditating and performing rituals at the Maha Shamshan, the cremation ground. His association with Tarapith and the Maha Shamshan adds to the spiritual significance of the place. Many believe his practices and presence contributed to the potent spiritual energy that draws people to Tarapith even today.
Things to Do
Here are some things you can do in Tarapith, considering the religious significance of the place:
- Visit the Tarapith Temple: This terracotta and marble temple is dedicated to Goddess Tara. Witness the daily rituals and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere.
- Explore the surrounding temples: Tarapith boasts several other temples, including the Bakreswar Temple, Nalhateshwari Temple, Mallarpur Shiv Temple, and Birchandrapur Temple. Each temple holds its own unique significance and story.
- Witness the Aarti (prayer ceremony): The aarti at the Tarapith Temple is a beautiful and powerful ceremony. Let yourself be captivated by the rhythmic chants, flickering lamps, and the devotion of the devotees.
- Learn about Bamakhepa: Visit the Bamdev Shangha Ashram, established by Bamakhepa. Discover his life and philosophies, and see his samadhi located within the Maha Shamshan.
- Observe rituals at the Maha Shamshan (respectfully): If comfortable, observe the rituals happening at the Maha Shamshan from a distance. Remember to be respectful of the mourners and ongoing religious practices.
Additional Activities
- Visit the Local Markets: Explore the local markets for traditional Bengali handicrafts, souvenirs, and Bengali sweets.
- Day trip to Bakreshwar: Take a day trip to Bakreshwar, renowned for its hot springs and natural beauty. You can bathe in the kund (natural pool) or simply relax by the river.
Best Time to Visit the Maha Shamshan in Tarapith
The Maha Shamshan in Tarapith is a significant religious site, especially during special occasions like Kali Puja and Kaushiki Amavasya. These events usually attract a large number of devotees and visitors seeking blessings and participating in rituals.
If you want to experience the vibrant atmosphere and religious fervor at the Maha Shamshan, the best time to visit is during these special occasions, particularly during Kali Puja, which typically falls in October or November, and Koushiki Amavasya, observed according to the lunar calendar.
During these times, you can witness unique rituals, ceremonies, and cultural performances that contribute to the spiritual ambiance of the place. However, be prepared for larger crowds and plan your accommodations and travel arrangements in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
The Maha Shamshan became famous partly due to Bamakhepa’s association with it. His story adds another layer to the mystique of the place, drawing those interested in unconventional spiritual practices and challenging social norms. It’s important to note that while Bamakhepa is a significant figure, the Maha Shamshan has its own inherent importance as a center for Tantric practices and a sacred space for devotees of Goddess Tara.