About

(from right to left) Rev. Swami Ambikananda Saraswati, Rev. Swami Bhajanananda Saraswati, and Board of Directors: Shivaani Ma, Jateshwara Das, Balaram Chandra Das

Kali Mata Kutir is a devotional sanctuary dedicated to the worship of the Divine Mother Kali, the service of humanity, and the fostering of interfaith harmony. We are a registered 501(c)(3) religious nonprofit and chartered branch of Kali Mandir in Laguna Beach, CA. We operate under the guidance of Rev. Pujya Swami Bhajanananda Saraswati, within the universal spiritual wisdom of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa, a 19th-century Bengali saint whose life exemplified ecstatic love and the transcendent harmony of all religions.

Founded by longtime devotees Shivaani Ma and Jateshwara Das, the kutir (meaning “hermitage” or “cottage”) offers a sacred space for worship, meditation, and spiritual connection. Our lineage follows the mood of loving devotion (bhakti) within the Hindu Dakshinachara Tantric tradition, worshiping Ma Kali as the Divine Mother.

At Kali Mata Kutir, we offer public and private pujas, kirtan, spiritual counseling, seasonal festivals, retreats, and community outreach. We are committed to preserving the beauty and depth of Sanatana Dharma while also welcoming seekers of all paths. Our work is grounded in both tradition and inclusivity — honoring the land, the local community, and the rich spiritual heritage we have been blessed to inherit.

Whether you come to sit quietly in meditation, participate in a joyful festival, or simply share a meal, you are welcome here. All hearts are held in the embrace of the Divine Mother.

Our aim is to invite others to come and experience the beauty that’s alive in this rich tradition, to cultivate a spiritual community to worship alongside of, and to serve humanity through offerings to our local community.

Visiting Kali Mata Kutir

We are currently raising funds for a permanent location in Ashland, Oregon. In the meantime, please see our events page for puja schedule, details, and location.