Nestled in the serene locale of Kaliabor in the Nagaon district, the Hatimura Temple stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Assam. Built during the reign of Ahom King Swargadeo Pramatta Singha in 1745-46 CE, the temple was a significant center of Shaktism, dedicated to the goddess Mahishamardini.
The origins of Hatimura Temple are steeped in legend. It is said that while traveling upstream on the Brahmaputra River, King Pramatta Singha rescued a beautiful girl struggling to stay afloat. As they approached Hatimura Hill, the girl signaled to be let ashore, but the boatmen couldn't stop. In a fit of rage, the girl began to dance frenziedly, prompting the king to throw her back into the water. That night, the girl, revealed to be Goddess Durga, appeared in the king's dream and instructed him to build a temple over the ruins of an old stone structure and to retrieve the idols lying on the riverbed where she had danced.
Following the goddess's command, the king constructed the temple and recovered idols of Durga, Ganesh, and Shiva from underwater. While the idol of Durga and the Shiva linga were taken up the hill, the idol of Ganesha was installed at the foothill.
Hatimura Temple is not just a place of worship but also a symbol of divine intervention and royal devotion. According to another popular legend, the temple marks the spot where Goddess Durga emerged victorious in a fierce battle, further solidifying its spiritual significance. Another tale narrates the blessings of Goddess Durga bestowed upon a local king, adding to the temple's mystique.
Visiting Hatimura Temple offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Assam's history and the enduring legacy of the Ahom dynasty. The temple continues to be a beacon of spiritual solace and historical intrigue, drawing devotees and history enthusiasts alike.
