Madaneshwar

Madaneshwar Temple

Kotasur is a prosperous town in Birbhum. It is believed that Kota was the capital of the king or the capital of Asuras, hence the name Kotasur.

It is in this Kotasur that Madaneshwar Shiva presides. Kotasur is one of the Shaiva Tirthas.

Madaneshwar Temple Premises

Madaneshwar Temple

Festivals: During the month of Shravan, the Shravani Mela, centered around the pouring of water on the head of Shiva, is attended by a large number of devotees.

Accomodation and Food: Stay may be arranged at the homestay in Kotasur. Otherwise any lodge at Suri or Sainthia can be chosen for staying.

Madaneshwar Temple Gate

Madaneshwar Temple

What to see? Many legends about Kotasur are still prevalent today. It is believed that the Pandavas stayed in this region for a few days while on a forest exile. A large rock near the temple is believed to be Kunti's lamp and a larger rock is believed to be the knee bone of Bakasura, who was killed by Bhima.

How to go: Kotasur is only 12 k.m. from Saithia via bus headed for Baharampur, and it is also accessible from Tarapitha and Birchandrapur.