Published Paper Details:

Abstract (English): This study explains the backdrop of history, religious values that are attached to that particular temple, its socio-cultural impacts and spiritual significances of the "Yugal Kishore Temple" in Aranghata, Nadia district. Started in 1728 by Maharaja Krishnachandra and this temple was not just founded for the sake of worship but an embodiment of Bengal Vaishnav's tradition. As per a legend Gangaram Das, a devotee from Vrindavan established the idol of Lord Krishna in his youthful form at Vrundaban near Nabadwip. Subsequently during the Bargi invasion he left with the idol and stayed at Aranghata for shelter. Later on through a divine dream King Krishnachandra was able to find out a metal made idol Radhika from his palace's underground chamber and positioned Her beside Lord Krishna. This divine couple led to temple becoming famous as "Yugal Kishore." The architectural style of the temple, with its five-arched hall, pankha ornamentation, and engraved images of the Dashavatar, speaks volumes about the rich heritage of Bengali folk art. A nearly three-hundred-year-old "Siddha Bakul" tree stands right within the premises of the temple and is believed to be the sacred site of Radha-Krishna's divine union. Every year in the month of Jyeshtha, the Yugal Kishore festival and fair are held, drawing devotees and baul artists from across the state. It is believed that women who offer prayers here are freed from the sorrow of widowhood. Maharaja Krishnachandra donated about 125 bighas of land to ensure the daily worship and long-term sustenance of the temple. Even today, the Yugal Kishore Temple stands as a symbol of religion, art, and communal harmony for the local society where spirituality, music, and devotion blend together, keeping Bengal's Vaishnava heritage vibrant and alive.