In the heart of Kolkata’s bustling Chinatown, a unique temple dedicated to Goddess Kali stands out for its unconventional offerings. Forget the traditional animal sacrifices; here, devotees present steaming plates of chow mein and momos as prasad to the fierce deity. This fusion of Chinese cuisine and Hindu worship has made the Chinese Kali Temple in Tangra a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists.
Tangra, often called Kolkata’s China Town, is home to a thriving Hakka Chinese community who proudly identify as Chinese Hindus. They built this one-of-a-kind shrine decades ago, blending their cultural heritage with deep devotion to Maa Kali, revered in West Bengal as the goddess of tantra. The temple’s management is handled by the Chinese community, but rituals follow strict Sanatan Dharma traditions performed by local priests.
Every Diwali night, the temple comes alive with elaborate pujas that stretch into the early hours. Devotees light thick Chinese candles instead of regular diyas, symbolizing their unique expression of faith. But the real highlight is the prasad: purely vegetarian chow mein and momos, prepared fresh and offered to the goddess before being distributed among worshippers.
The temple’s origin is steeped in folklore. About 60 years ago, a young Chinese boy fell critically ill, defying all medical treatments. Nearby, Hindu neighbors worshipped two black stones under a tree as Kali and Shiva. Desperate parents joined the rituals, and miraculously, their son recovered fully. Grateful, the Chinese community expanded the site into a full-fledged temple, with the sacred tree still standing at its center.
Today, thousands flock here, attributing fulfilled wishes to the tree’s blessings. Maintained meticulously by the Chinese Hindus, the temple exemplifies cultural harmony. This unusual practice of noodle offerings has become a cherished tradition, drawing curious foodies and spiritual seekers alike to witness this delightful Indo-Chinese synergy.