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Mahadeva Temple, Kainoor, Kerala

Mahadeva Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Kainoor Village near Thrissur City in Thrissur District in Kerala, India. The Temple is situated on the banks of Manali river, a tributary of Karuvannur Puzha. This Temple is considered as one of the 108 Shiva Temples created by Lord Parasurama. It is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage centres in Kerala.

Legends

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Parasurama created the land between Gokarna and Kanyakumari. Parasurama the sixth avatar of Maha Vishnu, he was youngest son of sage Jamadagni and Renuka. It is said that Kerala was reclaimed from the ocean using his axe for donating to Brahmins after killing of King Kartavirya Arjuna and other Kshatriyas. He split this land in to 64 villages (64 gramas). Out of these 64 villages, 32 villages are in between Perumpuzha and Gokarnam and the spoken language was Tulu.

The remaining 32 villages were in Malayalam speaking area between Perumpuzha and Kanyakumari. According legends, after donating the land to Brahmins108 Maha Shiva Lingam and Durga Idols were installed in these 64 villages. These 108 Shiva Temples are mentioned in the Shivala Stotram and song is written in Malayalam language. Of the 108 Siva Temples, 105 temples are situated in Kerala state, 2 temples in Karnataka and 1 in Kanyakumari District of Tamil Nadu.

Among these temples, the Lord Shiva of Gokarnam Mahabaleswara Temple in the north and Goddess Kumari of Kanyakumari temple in the south were considered as the protectors of Kerala. The first temple created by Parasurama was the Thrissur Vadakkunnathan Temple and the last one was the Thrikkariyoor Mahadeva Temple. This Temple is considered as one of the 108 Shiva Temples created by Lord Parasurama.

The Temple

This Temple is facing towards east with an imposing recently built gopuram. It houses the presiding deity, Lord Shiva in its sanctum. There is a shrine for Lord Vinayaga in the temple premises.

Festivals

Maha Shivarathri festival of the temple celebrates in the Malayalam month of Kumbha (Feb – Mar). Murajapam was conducted daily in this temple in ancient days.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 3 Kms from Puthur, 9 Kms from Thrissur, 11 Kms from Manamangalam, 11 Kms from Thrissur Bus Stand, 11 Kms from Thrissur Railway Station and 50 Kms from Cochin Airport. The temple is situated on the Thrissur – Manamangalam – Puthur route.

Location

Mahadeva Temple, Thiruvaloor – Legends

108 Shiva Temples of Kerala:

Evening Deepa Aradhana Darshan:

As per legend, Bhattathiripad of Sooryakaladi Mana got a curse from Yakshi and Gandharva that he would die on 14^th day from the curse. They also further stated that he would not die if he is able to attend the evening deepa aradhana darshan of Thiruvaloorappan. An oracle on 13^th day from the temple insisted to conduct the Ucha Pooja by 10 AM tomorrow and the temple should be closed. Bhattathiripad of Sooryakaladi Mana arrived at Tiruvallur on 14^th day and could not pray as the Nada was closed earlier.

As per the curse, he had a terrible end. He could not able to bear the pain. He jumped and bite the wooden roof of the temple to manage the sufferings. The teeth marks and his footsteps could be still seen on the wooden roof and granite stone at the entrance. The evening deepa aradhana darshan is considered to be very auspicious. It is also believed that if one does darshan then his death won’t happen that day.

Jatayu wings fell down here:

As per legend, the demon Ravana was abducting the goddess Sita to Lanka when Jatayu tried to rescue her. Jatayu fought valiantly with Ravana, but as Jatayu was very old Ravana soon defeated him by clipping his wings. It is said that his wings fell down at this place.

Mahadeva Temple, Thiruvaloor – Legends

108 Shiva Temples of Kerala:

Evening Deepa Aradhana Darshan:

Jatayu wings fell down here:

Mahadeva Temple, Thiruvaloor, Kerala

Mahadeva Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Thiruvaloor Kara of Alangad Village near Aluva in Ernakulam District in Kerala, India. This Temple is considered as one of the 108 Shiva Temples created by Lord Parasurama. It is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage centers in Kerala.

Legends

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/05/mahadeva-temple-thiruvaloor-legends.html

History

The Temple was rebuilt during the reign of Moolam Thirunal Rama Varma (1857-1924 CE) of Travancore.

The Temple

The temple is facing towards east. The sanctum enshrines the presiding deity in the form of Shiva Linga. He is in Rowdra Bhava The Linga is believed to be an Agni Pratistha (with Lord Shiva's third eye open). It is said that the heat emanating from the Linga might be harmful to the devotees. Hence, a pond is constructed in the east direction facing the Linga in front of the East gopuram to cool down the Rowdra Bhava of the Lord Shiva.

The sanctum is circular in shape and has unique carvings of Ramayana. There are shrines for Ganesha and Dakshinamurthy in the temple premises. There is a big Rudraksha tree, situated on the north east corner of the temple. Keezhanikavu, a subsidiary temple of Thiruvaloor Mahadeva Temple, is situated very next to the temple. It houses the idols of Vishnu, Bhagavati and Nagas.

Temple Opening Time

The Temple remains open from 4.00 am to 11.00 am and 5.00 pm to 7.30 pm.

Festivals

The festival of the temple is in the month of April finishing one day before Vishu. The Aaraattu (Divine Bath) as part of the festival is held at Aluva in Periyar river. Maha Shivaratri is another festival celebrated here with much fanfare.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 8 Kms from Aluva Bus Stand, 8 Kms from Aluva, 8 Kms from Aluva Railway Station, 11 Kms from North Paravur, 14 Kms from Cochin Airport and 30 Kms from Cochin. The temple is situated on Aluva to North Paravur route.

Location

Sita Ramachandra Swamy Temple, Bhadrachalam – The Temple Complex

The temple complex consists of three parts of Mount Bhadra. The head of the Bhadra is a hill top with a shrine of Ranganatha, the heart is the main shrine and foot is the rajagopuram. The temple complex is facing towards north with five tiered rajagopuram. The temple has four entrances on all four directions and the northern entrance is considered as the main entrance. The northern entrance is famously called as Vaikuntha Dwaram. The temple is situated at the top of the hill and completely enclosed within a compound wall.

The temple can be accessed through flight of 50 steps. The main shrine consists of sanctum, antrala, maha mandapa and mukha mandapa. There is gold plated dwaja sthamba in the mukha mandapa facing towards the sanctum. It is made of panchaloha (five different metal alloy) with carvings of Garuda, the mount of Lord Vishnu. Utsava idols of Rama, Sita and Lakshmana can be seen in the maha mandapa. The sanctum enshrines a seated image of Lord Rama.

He is in padmasana posture with Sita seated on his lap. He is four armed. He holds the conch, discus, bow and arrow in his hands. Lakshmana can be seen on the left side. The images are said to be Swayambhu (self-manifested). The top of the vimana of the sanctum has an eight faced Sudarshana chakra with thousand corners engraved by Gopanna. It is said that the Sudarshana Chakra was found in the waters of Godavari river by Gopanna.

A miniature carving of the presiding deity can be seen in the vimana. There is a south facing shrine for Lord Ranganatha on the taller hill. This shrine is famously called as Ranganayakula Gutta (hillock of Ranganatha). There is a shrine for Goddess Lakshmi situated opposite to the Ranganatha shrine. Both these temples follow the tradition of Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple. The Rushya Mookham Exhibition Centre is situated next to the Lakshmi shrine.

It houses the golden coins made by Lord Rama & given to Tana Shah for the release of Gopanna at its centre, jewels made by Gopanna for the deities and a chain made of pearls. There is a shrine for Ramalingeswara Swamy on the Ranganayakula Gutta. There are shrines for holy feet of Lord Rama, Abhaya Anjaneya, Dasa Anjaneya, Govindaraja Swamy and Yogananda Narasimha in the temple premises. There is a hall named Nithya Kalyana mandapam for conducting the marriage festival of Rama and Sita in the outer prakaram.

There is a hermitage called Govinda Swamy Madam situated next to the Kalyana Mandapam. The icons worshipped by Narasimha Dasu are housed in the Ambasatram, located at the southern end of the temple. Here, food is served to the devotees visiting the temple. A huge hall named Mithila Stadium was built facing the Vaikuntha Dwaram. The story of Sage Bhadra was written on the walls of the prakarams of the temple.

Sita Ramachandra Swamy Temple, Bhadrachalam – Religious Significance

Rituals similar to Srirangam Ranganatha Swamy Temple:

As per Ramayana and other sacred texts, Ranganatha was the Kuladevatha (tutelary deity) of the Ikshvaku Dynasty, the clan of Lord Rama. Hence, Gopanna wanted this temple to follow all the traditions and guidelines of the Srirangam Ranganatha Swamy Temple. To achieve this practice, he invited five families from Srirangam who were well versed in Pancharatra Agama traditions to Bhadrachalam. He successfully implemented the religious practices of Srirangam Ranganatha Swamy Temple here with the help of the migrated brahmin families. Narasimha Dasu later introduced the Dasavidhotsavams (ten kinds of rituals), including Nitya Kainkaryams (daily rituals), Vaarotsavams (weekly rituals), Pakshotsavams (fortnightly rituals), and Punarvasu Utsavam (rituals on the Punarvasu day).

Worship Procedure:

The Suprabhatha Seva (pre-dawn ritual) begins early in the morning at 4:00 am, followed by providing Balabhoga (minor food offerings) from 5:30 to 7:00 am. The regular archana (prayer) activities are held from 8:30 to 11:30. Rajabhogam (main food offering) is served to the deity from 11:30 am to 12:00 noon; then the temple remains closed until 3:00 pm. From 3:00, the archana rituals continue, after which darbar Seva (the king's court ritual) is performed from 7:00 to 8:00 pm. After a break to offer food to the deity from 8:30 to 9:00 pm, the temple is closed after performance of the pavalimpu seva (the sleeping ritual).

Unique Abhisheka:

Abhisheka (anointment) in the main sanctum is performed only to Rama's feet on the rock structure in this temple. This ritual is also performed to the deities in the Lakshmi, Anjaneya, and Yogananda Narasimha temple exclusively on every Friday, Tuesday, and Saturday, respectively.

Dakshina Ayodhya:

Bhadrachalam is often referred to as Dakshina Ayodhya (Southern Ayodhya); Ayodhya being the capital of Rama.

Vaikuntha Rama:

The iconography of the Vaikuntha Rama form of Rama, is unique and not found anywhere else in the country. The Brahma Purana makes special mention of the temple's significance and adds that Vaikuntha Rama is capable of imparting knowledge to those who worship him at Bhadrachalam.

Divya Kshetrams:

Bhadrachalam is considered as one of the Divya Kshetrams (special temples) that sit on the banks of the Godavari River. Hence, the river's Pushkaram and Maha Pushkaram are celebrated here along with others once every twelve years and 144 years, respectively.

Saint Kabir Visit to this temple:

As per legend, when a Muslim saint Kabir who was also a devotee of Lord Rama, was once denied entry into the temple by the priests. The images of the temple disappeared for the moment. Ramadas who was there pleaded with the priests to let the saint inside the temple, after which the icons appeared again.

Centre of the Bhajan Tradition:

Gopanna used Bhadrachalam as a centre of the Bhajan tradition to spread awareness of the Vaishnavite tradition. This eventually led to the increase in the number of Rama temples in the Telugu-speaking states across the years, especially in villages. Gopanna's songs inspired Thyagaraja, another ardent devotee of Rama who composed several songs in Indian carnatic music. Thyagaraja revered Gopanna as his personal hero and he composed several songs modelled on songs written by Gopanna in praise of Vaikuntha Rama. He later inspired Narasimha Dasu, who composed songs in praise of Rama during his stay at Bhadrachalam. It helped Narasimha Dasu gain recognition as a true follower of Gopanna.

Tradition of offering pearls & Silk robes to Lord Rama:

The annual tradition of giving pearls and silk robes to Rama on the day of his marriage celebrations has been replicated at many other smaller temples dedicated to the deity.

Hindu Saints visit to this temple:

The Hindu saints Adi Shankara and Thirumangai Alvar visited the temple and offered prayers to the deity.

Sita Ramachandra Swamy Temple, Bhadrachalam – Legends

Bhakta Ramadas:

As per legend, Pokala Dhammakka, an ardent devotee of Lord Rama lived in 17^th century CE in Bhadrareddypalem. Bhadrareddypalem is situated at about 2 Kms from this temple. She had darshan of Lord Rama in her dreams in one night. Lord Rama revealed his presence in Bhadrachalam and asked her to find the idols, perform pooja and attain salvation. She started searching for the idols on the very next day morning. She finally found the idols inside an ant hill on top of the Bhadrachalam hill. She constructed a mandapam for housing these idols at the top of the hill.

Later, Kancharla Gopanna, an ardent devotee of Lord Rama, was popularly known as Bhakta Ramadas, constructed this temple in 1674 CE. He was born to Linganna Murthy and Kamamba 1620 CE. He was nephew of Akkanna, a minister of Nawab Abul Hasan Qutb Shah (also known as Tana Shah) of Golkonda. He was appointed as Tahsildar of Palvoncha Paragana responsible for collecting taxes. One day, he noticed the villagers of Palvoncha Paragana were going for a Jatara at Bhadrachalam. He also decided to join them.

He was mesmerized by the beauty of the idols at Bhadrachalam. He decided to construct a temple for the idols. He requested the villagers to contribute for the construction activities of the temple. The amount collected from the villagers were found to be insufficient. The villagers requested him to spend the revenue collections for the construction of the temple. Also, the villagers assured that the money used from revenue collections would be repaid after harvesting the crops. He constructed the temple with an amount of six lakhs without seeking the permission from Nawab Abul Hasan Qutb Shah.

When the Nawab came to know about the temple construction using the tax amount meant for the state, he dismissed Gopanna from the post and ordered the arrest of him. Subsequently, he was arrested and kept in jail in Golkonda Fort for 12 years. The Nawab told Gopanna that he will be hanged if he did not return the amount within 12 years. He composed many kirtanas in praise of Sri Rama to provide relief to his miseries. These kirtanas are popularly known as Dasarathy Sathakam.

On the last day of 12^th year, Nawab Tana Shah had dream in which two divine looking people namely Ramoji and Lakshmoji, claiming to be servants of Gopanna, handed over gold coins having imprints of Sri Rama worth six lakhs to the Nawab and requested him to release Gopanna. When the Nawab woke up, he was surprised to see a bag of gold coins lying beside him. He realized his mistake and released Gopanna immediately. Further, Nawab was surprised to see the receipt for the gold coins under the pillow of Gopanna.

Nawab handed over the entire gold coins to Gopanna seeking his forgiveness. However, Gopanna refused to take the money except two gold coins as divine significance. These coins can be seen in the museum in Bhadrachalam Temple. From that day onwards, Gopanna came to be called as Baktha Ramadas. Nawab Tana Shah also became a devotee of Lord Rama and took over the administration of this temple.

He directed that the revenue collected from Palvoncha Paragana, around Rs 20,000 per month to be utilized for the maintenance of Bhadrachalam temple. Also, every year during Sri Ramanavami festival, on the occasion of Kalyana Mahotsavam, pearls will be offered to the deities on an elephant through specially sent messenger. The ritual of sending pearls to the deities is still followed by present state Government.

Bhadragiri / Bhadrachalam:

As per legend, Sage Bhadra, son of Meru and Menaka, was an ardent devotee of Lord Rama performed intense penance at the banks of Godavari river in order to have darshan of Lord Rama. Sage Bhadra had a vision of Lord Rama during his penance and pleaded with him to be seated on his head. But, Lord Rama was in search of Sita, after she was abducted by Ravana, the demon king of Lanka.

However, he promised to return to this place after rescuing Sita from Ravana. Unfortunately, Lord Rama could not fulfill his promise in Treta Yuga. But, Sage Bhadra waited for Lord Rama arrival. Pleased with his devotion, Lord Vishnu descended to this place in the form of Vaikunda Rama along with his consort Sita and his brother Lakshmana. Thus, the place came to be called as Bhadragiri / Bhadrachalam.

Parnasala:

As per legend, Lord Rama along with his consort Sita and his brother Lakshmana spent considerable amount of time in this region during their exile. The region was called as Dandakaranya during Ramayana times. It is said that they built their hermitage at Chitrakoota in Parnasala as per the advice of Sage Agastya. Parnasala is the place where Mother Sita was abducted by Ravana, the demon king of Lanka in the form of golden deer. Parnasala is situated at about 35 Kms from this temple.

Shabari:

Shabari was an elderly woman ascetic mentioned in the Hindu epic Ramayana. She was a tribal woman and an ardent devotee of Lord Rama. She was a seeker of knowledge and wanted to know the meaning of Dharma. She set out to find the truth. She met Sage Matanga at the foot of Mount Rishyamukha after several days of travel. She became a disciple of him and served him sincerely. When Sage Matanga was in death bed, Shabari sought salvation from his Guru.

The sage advised Shabari that she should stay at this place and wait for the arrival of Lord Rama and Lakshmana who will visit the hermitage in near future. She would attain salvation with their blessings. Shabari took up the responsibility of the hermitage and started waiting for Rama and his brother. Every day, Shabari would go out of her ashram, with the help of a walking stick, and pluck berries for Lord Rama.

She would pluck one, taste it and, if it was sweet, she would put it in her basket, discarding the bitter ones. She wanted to give the good berries to Rama. She didn't know that offerings must not be tasted. Thus, collecting a few berries, Shabari would return to the ashram and eagerly await Lord Rama's arrival. Lord Rama with his brother, Lakshmana, were searching for Sita in Dandaka forest. Finally, Lord Rama and Lakshmana reached the hermitage and found Shabari was waiting for them. Shabari became ecstatic on seeing Lord Rama.

Shabari offered the fruits which she had meticulously collected from the forest. When Lord Rama was about to taste, Lakshmana raised the concern that Shabari had already tasted them and therefore unworthy of eating. Lord Rama informed Lakshamana that the fruits offered by her was tastiest of all which he had eaten till now. He further said that offerings made with pure devotion is more important than the sanctity of the offerings. The Sabari river flowing here is named after her.

Sita Ramachandra Swamy Temple, Bhadrachalam – History

The temple was constructed in 17^th century CE by Kancherla Gopanna during the reign of Golconda Nawab Abul Hasan Qutb Shah. However, the Swayambu idols of the presiding deities were discovered in the early 17^th century CE by Pokala Dhammakka, a tribal woman lived in the nearby village of Bhadrareddypalem. Kancherla Gopanna was popularly called as Bhadradri Ramadasu or Bhadrachala Ramadasu. He was a 17^th century Indian devotee of Rama and a composer of Carnatic music. His devotional lyrics to Rama are famous in South Indian classical music as Ramadaasu Keertanalu.

Renowned composer of Carnatic music, Tumu Lakshmi Narasimha Dasu of Guntur and his friend Varada Ramadasu of Kanchipuram offered prayers daily at Bhadrachalam and spent their life in this temple in 19^th century CE. After Varada Ramadasu's death, Narasimha Dasu carried his corpse into the Godavari and died by drowning. The temple was a part of the Godavari district until the end of the Visalandhra movement, after which the town was merged into Khammam district in 1956. The maintenance and administration of the temple were undertaken by the endowment ministry of the Government of Andhra Pradesh in 1958.

Repairs were made to the temple in 1960 under the supervision of the then-endowments minister Kalluri Chandramouli. The temple faced a severe threat from flash floods in the Godavari River in August 1986. The main streets and several structures, including cottages, were submerged in water for nearly five days. Many local people took shelter in the halls of the temple. The Kalyana mandapam (marriage hall) was completely inundated except for its gopuram (temple tower). P. Seshacharyulu and other priests stayed in the temple and performed all the daily rituals without any interruption during the floods.

The Nizam of Hyderabad, Mir Osman Ali Khan during his time made a huge donation of Rs. 50,000 for this temple during his time. During the Telangana movement, both the states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh claimed that the Bhadrachalam temple belongs to their respective regions. Telangana politicians and activists stood firm on their stance and stated that they would not let Bhadrachalam be separated from the state. Bhadrachalam was retained in Telangana, and after reorganization of districts in October 2016, the temple became a part of Bhadradri Kothagudem district.

Sita Ramachandra Swamy Temple, Bhadrachalam, Telangana

Sita Ramachandra Swamy Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Rama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu located in Bhadrachalam Town in Bhadradri Kothagudem District of Telangana, India. The temple is situated on the banks of Godavari river. The temple is considered one of the Divya Kshetrams of Godavari and is also revered as Dakshina Ayodhya.

Legends

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/05/sita-ramachandra-swamy-temple-bhadrachalam-legends.html

History

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/05/sita-ramachandra-swamy-temple-bhadrachalam-history.html

The Temple Complex

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/05/sita-ramachandra-swamy-temple-bhadrachalam-temple-complex.html

Temple Opening Time

The temple remains open from 04.00 AM to 12.00 Noon and 03.00 PM to 09.30 PM.

Festivals

12 days Brahmotsavam, Rama Navami, Kalyana Mahotsavam, Vaikuntha Ekadashi, Theppotsavam, Vasantotsavam, Vijayadashami, Dussehra, Hanuman Jayanti, Sabari Smruthi Yatra and Dhammakka Seva Yatra are the festivals celebrated here.

Religious Significance

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/05/sita-ramachandra-swamy-temple-bhadrachalam-religious-significance.html

Contact

Sita Ramachandra Swamy Temple,

Bhadrachalam – 507 111,

Bhadradri – Kothagudem District,

Telangana, India

Phone: +91 8743 232 428 / 232 467

Mobile: +91 76600 07679 / 76600 07681

Email: eo_bhadrachalam@yahoo.co.in

Web: https://www.bhadrachalarama.org/

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 1.5 Kms from Bhadrachalam Bus Stand, 29 Kms from Palwancha, 40 Kms from Kothagudem, 41 Kms from Bhadrachalam Road Railway Station, 116 Kms from Khammam, 182 Kms from Vijayawada and 192 Kms from Vijayawada Airport. TSRTC and APSRTC operates buses connecting Bhadrachalam to various parts of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

Location

Rajrajeshwar Temple, Dwarhatta, West Bengal

Rajrajeshwar Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in Dwarhatta village in the Haripal CD block in the Chandannagar subdivision of Hooghly district in the Indian state of West Bengal. The temple is one of the state protected monuments in West Bengal declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

History

The temple was built in 1728 CE by Apurbamohan Singha Roy. The Singha Roy family trace their ancestry to Rajasthan. They are Rajput Kshatriyas who migrated to Bengal after the defeat of the Rajputs at the battle of Haldighati in the 16^th century CE.

The Temple

The temple follows atchala style of architecture. The atchala style is similar to the four-sided char chala temple style, but with a small replica of the base temple on top. This temple is facing towards east and stands over a raised platform. The temple measures 24 ft x 21 ft. The temple consists of sanctum and a verandah with triple arched entrance. The sanctum enshrines a salagrama image of Vishnu. The facade is decorated with rich terracotta plaques depicting scenes from Ramayana, Krishnalila, scenes from daily life and floral motifs.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 2 Kms from Ramhati Tala Bus Stop, 9 Kms from Haripal Railway Station, 17 Kms from Tarakeswar, 34 Kms from Arambag, 41 Kms from Chandannagar, 50 Kms from Kolkata and 51 Kms from Kolkata Airport. The temple is situated at about 2 Kms from Ramhati Tala Bus Stop on Kolkata to Arambag route.

Location

Dihar Twin Temples – The Temple Complex

The temple complex consists of two early medieval temples namely Saresvara and Shailesvara Temples. The temple complex is situated on the elevated bank of the Kana nadi in the northern corner of the village of Dihar. It is said that the temples were built upon the Chalcolithic / Neolithic habitational mounds.

Saresvara Temple:

The external walls of the temple are decorated with images of deities, human figurines, floral motifs and geometric designs. Most of these works are eroded due to the force of nature and human negligence. Nandi can be found facing towards the sanctum. The temple got its name from this Nandi only (Sar means Bull). The stone idol of Nandi is heavily eroded losing all its intricate features.

Sailesvara Temple:

This temple follows Kalingan deul style architecture. The temple is built with laterite stones. The temple consists of sanctum and a shallow entrance porch. The sanctum enshrines the presiding deity Sailesvara in the form of Shiva Linga. The shikara (superstructure) over the sanctum have long been collapsed. The shikara follows nagara style architecture. The external walls of the temple are decorated with images of deities, human figurines, floral motifs and geometric designs. Most of these works are eroded due to the force of nature and human negligence.

Dihar Twin Temples, West Bengal

Dihar Twin Temples are group of two Hindu Temples dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Dihar village in the Bishnupur subdivision of the Bankura district in the Indian state of West Bengal. The temple complex is an ancient archaeological site (approximately 3,200 years old) of great antiquarian importance. The temple complex is situated on the northern bank of the River Dwarakeswar and on the left bank of the Kana nadi, the dried bed of the Dwarakeswar.

History

Saresvara and Shailesvara Temples were believed to be built by King Prithvi Malla of the Malla Dynasty in the middle of 13^th century CE. There is another belief that the temples were built by the kings from earlier dynasties and were extensively renovated by King Prithvi Malla. The temple complex is protected as monuments of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

The Temple Complex

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/05/dihar-twin-temples-temple-complex.html

Festivals

Shivaratri is the most famous festival celebrated here with much fanfare.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 6 Kms from Joykrishnapur, 10 Kms from Bishnupur, 15 Kms from Bishnupur Railway Station, 28 Kms from Sonamukhi, 43 Kms from Bankura, 171 Kms from Kolkata Airport and 171 Kms from Kolkata. The temple is situated at about 10 Kms from Bishnupur on the Bishnupur – Sonamukhi highway.

Location

Siddhanath Temple, Dhaliabari, West Bengal

Siddhanath Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Dhaliabari Town in the Cooch Behar I CD block in the Cooch Behar Sadar subdivision of the Cooch Behar district in the state of West Bengal, India. This temple is one of the few terracotta temples in Cooch Behar district. The temple is one of the state protected monuments in West Bengal declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

History

The temple was built during the rule of Raja Upendra Narayan (1714-1763) of the Cooch Behar State. Later the temple was extensively renovated during the rule of Raja Harendra Narayan (1780-1839) and his son Raja Shivendra Narayan (1796-1849).

The Temple

The temple follows pancha ratna style of architecture. The temple is about 9.1 metres (30 ft) high and has a square base of 6.4 metres (21 ft). The temple has a square flat roof with curved cornices with four towers at the four corners of the roof, but the larger central tower is missing. The sanctum enshrines the presiding deity, Siddhanath in the form of Linga. It also has an image of Lord Vishnu. The temple has a mihrab, normally found in mosques. There was an attempt made to convert it to a mosque during the short Muslim rule in the 18^th century.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 6 Kms from Cooch Behar Railway Station, 8 Kms from Cooch Behar Bus Stand, 9 Kms from Cooch Behar, 20 Kms from Dinhata, 32 Kms from Alipurduar and 159 Kms from Jalpaiguri Airport. The temple is situated on Cooch Behar to Dinhata route.

Location

Dakshina Kali Temple, Malancha, West Bengal

Dakshina Kali Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Goddess Kali located in Malancha, an outskirt of Kharagpur City in the Paschim Medinipur District in the state of West Bengal, India. The Temple is one of the state protected monuments in West Bengal declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

History

The temple was built by Gobindaram Roy of Mahashay royal family of Jakpur in 1634 CE. However, some historians date this temple to 1712 CE.

The Temple

The temple follows atchala style of architecture. The atchala style is similar to the four-sided char chala temple style, but with a small replica of the base temple on top. The temple stands over a raised platform within a fenced compound. The temple measures 25.5 feet long and 23 feet wide and is about 50 feet tall. The temple consists of sanctum and a verandah with triple arched entrance. The sanctum enshrines an image of Dakshina Kali. The façade is decorated with rich terracotta ornamentation depicting Ramayana scenes, Mahishasura Mardhini, musical procession, kalasa, chakra, floral motifs and geometrical patterns.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 6 Kms from Kharagpur, 6 Kms from Kharagpur Bus Stand, 7 Kms from Kharagpur Junction Railway Station, 16 Kms from Midnapore, 132 Kms from Kolkata and 140 Kms from Kolkata Airport. The temple is situated in the outskirt of Kharagpur City.

Location

Jay Chandi Temple, Deulpara, West Bengal

Jay Chandi Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Goddess Durga located in Deulpara village in Pursura Block in Hooghly district in the Indian state of West Bengal, India. The temple is situated on the banks of Damodar river. The Temple is one of the state protected monuments in West Bengal declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

The Temple

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 4 Kms from Baikunthapur, 5 Kms from Talpur Halt Railway Station, 7 Kms from Tarakeshwar Railway Station, 8 Kms from Tarakeshwar, 8 Kms from Tarakeshwar Bus Stand, 8 Kms from Pursura, 67 Kms from Kolkata Airport and 69 Kms from Kolkata. The temple is situated on Pursura to Baikunthapur route.

Location

Brindaban Chandra Math, Guptipara – The Temple Complex

The temple complex consists of four temples namely Brindaban Chandra Temple, Krishna Chandra Temple, Rama Chandra Temple and Chaitanya Dev Temple. The Brindaban Chandra Temple & Krishna Chandra Temple follows Atchala style of architecture, Rama Chandra Temple follows Eka Ratna style of architecture and Chaitanya Dev Temple follows Jor Bangla style of architecture. All these temples are enclosed with in a high wall. All the four temples stands over a raised platform and are interconnected through narrow pathways. The huge wooden Ratha (chariot) is kept behind the temple complex. This rath is taken out during the Rath Yatra festival.

Brindaban Chandra Temple:

This temple is considered as the biggest temple in the temple complex. The Temple is situated in between the Rama Chandra Temple and Krishna Chandra Temple. The temple follows atchala style of architecture. The atchala style is similar to the four-sided char chala temple style, but with a small replica of the base temple on top. The temple is about 60 feet tall and stands over a raised platform.

The temple consists of sanctum and a verandah with triple arched entrance. The sanctum enshrines the images of Radha Krishna, Jagannath, Subhadra and Balarama. There are three decorative finials at the top. The temple did not have rich terracotta ornamentation, but it is gifted with rich frescos on the columns, ceilings, external and interior walls.

Krishna Chandra Temple:

The temple also two archways on the northern and southern side. There are no terracotta ornamentation in this temple. A Tulsi plant can be seen in front of the temple. The sanctum enshrines an ashta dhatu (mixture of eight metals) idol of Krishna Chandra. The original idol was stolen and has been replaced by a similar idol.

Chaitanya Dev Temple:

The Chaitanya Dev Temple is considered as the oldest temple in the temple complex. The temple is situated in between the Krishna Chandra Temple and Brindaban Chandra Temple. The temple follows Jor Bangla style of architecture and stands over a raised platform. This style involves two structures that resemble the traditional thatched village huts of Bengal, one serves as a porch in the front and other serves as the sanctum. Each structure has a roof of the ek-bangla (do-chala) style, with two curved segments that meet at a curved ridge. The sanctum enshrines an image of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.

Rama Chandra Temple:

The temple follows eka ratna style of architecture. The temple has a square flat roof with curved cornices and a pinnacle over the top. The temple is facing towards east and stands over a raised platform. The temple consists of sanctum and a verandah with triple arched entrance. The temple also two archways on the northern and southern side.

The sanctum enshrines images of Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman and Hanuman. The external walls and the façade are decorated with rich terracotta ornamentation depicting the legends from Ramayana, Mahabharata, Krishna Leela, royal processions, naval voyages and social life.

Brindaban Chandra Math, Guptipara – History

The temple complex was built around the 17^th – 18^th century CE. The Jor Bangla temple of Chaitanya in the temple complex is considered as the earliest Bangla style temple. The temple was built by King Bishwar Roy during the reign of Emperor Akbar (1542 – 1605 CE). The Krishna Chandra Temple was constructed in 1745 during the rule of Nawab Alibardi Khan (1740 – 1756 CE). The Brindaban Chandra Temple was built under the patronage of Zamindar Ganga Narayan Sarkar of Bagbazar in 1810 CE.

The Rama Chandra Temple was constructed in late 18^th century CE by Harishchandra Roy, the king of Sheraphuli. The temple complex faced an invasion from Kalapahar, a Muslim general of Sulaiman Khan Karrani of Karrani dynasty during 16^th century CE. The idol of Brindaban Chandra was hidden inside a secret chamber in the ceiling of the temple concealed by fresco paintings in order to avoid the desecration at the hands of Kalapahar. The fresco paintings can be still seen in this temple.

As the idol was hidden (gupt), the place came to be called as Guptipara (concealed quarters). It is also said that the name Guptipara originated from Guptopalli (an old settlement) mentioned in ancient scriptures dating back to 8^th century CE. During the reign of Alibardi Khan, Nawab of Bengal (1740 – 1756 CE), it was brought to his notice that the tax was not paid for a plot of land in the name of Brindaban Chandra for long time.

As he did not knew that Brindaban Chandra was an idol, he ordered Brindaban Chandra to be brought to his court for trial. The devotees of Brindaban Chandra made a replica of the deity and took it to the court. Alibardi Khan was surprised to see the deity and cancelled all tax dues. Further, he gave permission to build the temple of Brindaban Chandra. The temple complex is protected as monuments of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

Brindaban Chandra Math, Guptipara, West Bengal

Brindaban Chandra Math is a Hindu Temple Complex dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in Guptipara Village in the Balagarh CD block in the Chinsurah subdivision of the Hooghly district in the Indian state of West Bengal. The temple complex consists of four Terracotta temples with different architectural styles of Bengal. Guptipara is an ancient historic town situated on the banks of Hooghly river nestled between the three districts of Nadia, Hooghly and Burdwan.

History

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/05/brindaban-chandra-math-guptipara-history.html

The Temple Complex

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/05/brindaban-chandra-math-guptipara-temple-complex.html

Festivals

Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival) is the most celebrated festival here. The Ratha festival here is the fourth largest in India after Puri in Orissa, Mahesh in Sreerampore and Mahishadal in Purba Medinipur. The idols of Jagannath, Balaram & Subhadra are in rath (chariot) to another temple known as Masir Bari where the idols are kept for 7 days. After spending seven days, the idols are brought back to the Brindaban Chandra temple. This procession is called as ulto rath. Guptipara is also known for holding the first Baroari Durga Puja in Bengal.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 3 Kms from Guptipara Railway Station, 12 Kms from Kalna, 15 Kms from Balagarh, 40 Kms from Chinsurah, 80 Kms from Kolkata Airport and 93 Kms from Kolkata. The temple is situated at about 3 Kms from Behula on the Kolkata to Kalna route. Guptipara can be reached from Kolkata or Howrah on the suburban train service. Local trains from Howrah, Katwa and Bandel stop at Guptipara railway station. Train service is also available from Sealdah. Buses are available from district headquarters Chinsurah & Kalna (Kalna – Chinsurah 8 No. Private Bus), Burdwan (Guptipara – Burdwan) and Tarakeswar (Guptipara – Tarakeswar). Ferry service to Guptipara is available from Santipur and Tarapur. Autorickshaw services are available from Jirat (Jirat – Guptipara) and from Kalna (Kalna – Guptipara).

Location

Chirakkal Mahadeva Temple, Angamaly, Kerala

Chirakkal Mahadeva Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located near Angamaly Town in Ernakulam District in Kerala, India. This Temple is considered as one of the 108 Shiva Temples created by Lord Parasurama. It is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage centers in Kerala.

Legends

The Temple

The Temple is facing towards east. The temple has no Dhwaja Sthambam but no balikallu. The sanctum enshrines the presiding deity in the form of Lingam facing towards east. He is in Rowdra Bhavam. The sanctum is of two tiers. The prayer hall (Mulambambalam) lies to the east of the temple.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 6 Kms from Angamaly Bus Stand, 7 Kms from Angamaly Railway Station, 12 Kms from Cochin Airport, 15 Kms from Chalakudy, 15 Kms from Aluva and 40 Kms from Cochin. The Temple is located at about 6 Kms from Angamaly off the Cochin to Chalakudy route.

Location

Narasimha Temple, Kubatur, Karnataka

Narasimha Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in Kubatur Village Anavatti in Soraba Taluk in Shimoga District in the Indian state of Karnataka. Kubatur was called as Kuppattur, Kuntala Nagara and Kotipura during ancient times.

The Temple

The temple is of recent construction. This temple enshrines an image of Chintamani Narasimha. He is depicted in sitting posture without a crown. He is two armed. His right-hand rests on the raised knee and left hand on thigh.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 4.5 Kms from Anavatti, 6 Kms from Anavatti Bus Stand, 27 Kms from Hangal, 30 Kms from Shiralakoppa, 32 Kms from Soraba, 49 Kms from Haveri, 50 Kms from Haveri Railway Station, 101 Kms from Shimoga, 110 Kms from Hubballi Airport and 370 Kms from Bengaluru. The temple is situated at about 4.5 Kms from Anavatti on Anavatti to Hangal route. KSRTC buses and also several private buses are available regularly from Bangalore to Hangal. Buses are available from Hangal to Anavatti. Kubatur is well connected to Anavatti by Auto and other local means of transport.

Location

Rameshvara Temple, Kubatur, Karnataka

Rameshvara Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Kubatur Village Anavatti in Soraba Taluk in Shimoga District in the Indian state of Karnataka. This temple is considered as the oldest temple in the Kubatur village. The temple is situated at about 50 metres to the north of the Parsvanatha Basti.

History

The temple is believed to be built in 10^th century CE by Rashtrakutas. The temple is referred to as Mulasthana temple in the inscription. Kubatur was called as Kuppattur, Kuntala Nagara and Kotipura during ancient times.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east. Nandi, housed in a mandapa can be seen in front of the ranga mandapa, facing towards the sanctum. The temple consists of sanctum with pradakshina path (circumbulatory passage) and ranga mandapa. This temple falls under sandhara category which is uncommon in this region. The sanctum enshrines the presiding deity, Rameshvara in the form of Shiva Linga within square yonipitha. The ranga mandapa is directly connected to sanctum without any antrala in-between.

The central ceiling of the ranga mandapa is intricately carved depicting eight-armed Lord Shiva in tandava posture standing over a demon surrounded by ashta dikpalas in cardinal directions. Lord Shiva is flanked by Ganesha, Kartikeya, Parvati and Nandi. Sculptures of Sapta Matrikas and Mahishasura Mardini can be seen in the ranga mandapa. There is a platform housing several Naga idols near to the nandi mandapa. The exterior of the temple is plain.

Connectivity

Location

Parshvanatha Basti, Kubatur, Karnataka

Parshvanatha Basti is a Jain Temple dedicated to Jain Thirthankara Parshvanatha located in Kubatur Village Anavatti in Soraba Taluk in Shimoga District in the Indian state of Karnataka. The temple is situated at about 50 metres to the south of the Rameshvara Temple. Kubatur was called as Kuppattur, Kuntala Nagara and Kotipura during ancient times.

History

The Jain temple was constructed in 1077 CE by Kadamba Queen Malala Devi, senior queen of the Kadamba King Kirti Deva.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east. The temple consists of sanctum, maha mandapa and ardha mandapa. The temple would have had a mukha mandapa in the front in ancient times. The sanctum enshrines an image of Parshvanatha. The idol is about 5 feet tall. He is shown seated on a lion pedestal under a canopy of a seven-hooded serpent. He is flanked by two chauri bearers in standing posture on either sides.

There are two loose sculptures inside the mandapa. An image of Jain Thirthankara Parshvanatha standing under a canopy of a seven hooded serpent and another unidentified Jain image in standing posture can be seen in the maha mandapa. The interior and exterior walls are plain. There are few inscriptions in the temple premises.

Connectivity

Location

Kaitabheshvara Temple, Kubatur – The Temple

The temple is facing towards east and stands over a platform. The temple is constructed in ekakuta (single shrine) style. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala and navaranga. The navaranga has a staggered square plan and can be entered from five sides; two lateral and one each in the north, south and east. The navaranga is large and its ceiling is supported by massive pillars.

The pillars of the navaranga are characteristically circular, polished and lathe-turned, with those pillars that are mounted on a platform (jagati) being fluted and shorter in height. The ceilings are ornate and the typical Hoysala style. The navaranga is enclosed by parapet walls on all sides. The pillars of the mandapa are highly ornamented and measures 11 feet in height.

A variety of miniature shrines are carved on these parapet walls. Interestingly, this temple has a very important inscription which refers to the Bhumija style of temple construction. Probably, this is the only inscription in whole India which refers to this particular temple style. There are four niches inside the mandapa. Two niches are at the either sides of the vestibule and two are on the opposite walls facing north and south respectively.

These niches house images of Sapta Matrikas, Ganesha, Naga and Vishnu. The walls of the shrine and vestibule stand on a base (adisthana) that is composed of five moldings. The doorjamb at the entrance to the vestibule and sanctum are typically ornate and Hoysala in character, with an image of Gajalakshmi on the lintel. The superstructure (shikara) over the sanctum is of four tiers. The superstructure over the shrine and its antrala are intact.

The shikara is crowned by a large domed roof (amalaka) and kalasha on top of it. The amalaka is largest sculptural piece in the temple. The antrala has a superstructure called sukhanasi. It looks like a shorter extension of the main tower. The parapet walls has decorative motifs and pilasters surmounted by miniature decorative pyramidal shaped turrets with gargoyle faced (kirtimukha) scrolls.

The seating area in the hall (kakshasana) is treated with floral decorations. The outer walls of the shrine and vestibule are decorated with pilasters of two types; full length pilasters that reach up to the heavy though inconspicuous eaves, and half-length pilasters that support miniature decorative towers (aedicula) of various kinds (such as latina and bhumija). There are several images placed above the eaves running around the temple.

Ashta Dikpalas (Indra, Agni, Yama, Nirti, Vayu, Varuna, Kubera and Ishana) are placed at their respective directions on the same level as other images. The noteworthy images are Ugra Narasimha, Varaha, Garuda, Keshava, Bhairava, Harihara, Brahma, Sadashiva, Tandava-Ganapati, Parvati, Uma-Maheshvara, Surya etc.

Kaitabheshvara Temple, Kubatur – Legends

Kubatur:

Chandrahasa was the king of Kuntala kingdom. The Kuntala kingdom roughly consisted of parts of the present-day northern Karnataka and southern Maharashtra. The story of Chandrahasa is mentioned in Ashvamedhika Parva of the epic Mahabharata. He was the son of the king Sudharmika of Kerala. Chandrahasa was born under the inauspicious Mula star in Arishtamsha. He had six toes in his left foot which is another inauspicious sign. It is said as a consequence of these two, the enemy army killed his father and occupied his kingdom. His mother fell into the funeral pyre of her husband.

Later a maid took him to the Kuntala province and started taking care of him. However, she also died after some time. This orphan was being taken care of by the citizens of the Kuntala country. Once, while playing on the bank of the river, Chandrahasa found a uniquely shaped black round stone which was like a big marble. He picked it up and showed it to a learned priest and asked what it was. The priest wondered that it was a Narasimha Murthy Saligrama which was very rare, auspicious and very beneficial for the person who finds it and worships it.

The priest guided Chandrahasa how to pray and worship the Saligrama. Dushtabuddhi, minister of the king of Kuntala performed Annasantarpane, feeding of people. This boy also went there. The priests who had gathered there noticed the royal features of this boy and told the minister to take special care of the boy. But Dushtabuddhi had other evil designs as the king had no issues and the minister had plans of assuming the throne. In order to get rid of the boy he got some Chandalas and ordered them to kill this boy, promising them suitable gifts.

They took the boy to the forest to kill him. Before killing, they asked him his last wish. Chandrahasa said that for the last time he would pray and worship the Saligrama, which he used to keep always with him. He prayed and then asked the Chandalas why they wanted to kill him. However, Chandalas kept quiet. All of a sudden, all the Chandalas heard the roaring sound of a lion behind each of them and saw a lion jumping on them. Out of fear, they fainted. Chandrahasa helped them and gave them water to drink.

Due to the fear of the lion-sight and behaviour of Chandrahasa, their heart melted, and they cut off only the sixth finger and showed it to Dushtabuddhi as a proof of killing Chandrahasa. Kulinda, king of the forest dwelling tribes saw this boy wandering and crying in the jungle, and as he had no issues of his own, brought him home and started bringing him up. Chandrahasa learnt all the aspects of education and won over all the provinces surrounding his kingdom, also added riches to the treasury.

Once, when Dushtabuddhi visited their kingdom he recognized him and, having learnt the details from Kulinda, wrote a note to his son to poison him and sent the note to his son through Chandrahasa. Chandrahasa came to Kuntala province and was resting in the garden in the outskirts of the town. Vishaye, daughter to Dushtabuddhi had also came to the garden with her maids. He saw the sleeping Chandrahasa and fell in love with him. She opened the letter addressed to her brother and recognised it as her father's note.

She assumed that her father must have meant Vishaye and not Visha (meaning poison), promptly changed it and put it back in Chandrahasa's pocket. Chandrahasa delivered the note to Madana, Dushtabuddhi's son, was honoured and the wedding took place accordingly. Madana informed Dushtabuddhi about Vishaye marriage with Chandrahasa. Upset over the development, he arranged hit men to kill Chandrahasa. He ordered them to kill the person who will come to the Kalika temple in the outskirts of the town (Kubatur, North Karnataka).

Dushtabuddhi requested Chandrahasa to visit the temple in the evening, alone, assuring him that was their custom. He also ensured Chandrahasa would go to the temple. Madana, Dushtabuddhi's son was looking after the affairs of the palace in the absence of his father till now; it happened this day, too. When he went to the palace, the royal priest Galava informed him that the king was on his deathbed and, having seen Chandrahasa earlier had decided he is the right choice as his son-in-law and heir.

Madana was asked to convey this message Madana ran into Chandrahasa, asked him to rush to the palace immediately and took his place to go the temple, was promptly assassinated by the murderers sent by Dushtabuddhi. Chandrahasa went to the palace, was honoured and married the princess Champakamalini. When this news reached Dushtabuddhi, he was heart-broken. He was devastated when he learnt of his son's death. He decided to end his life and went to the Kali temple and beheaded himself. When Chandrahasa learnt of this twin tragedy in the morning, he went to the temple and prayed to goddess Kali to restore their lives.

When Kali was not appeased, he proceeded to behead himself; Kali appeared, restored their lives, granted many boons to Chandrahasa. Chandrahasa ruled this kingdom for many years having invited Kulinda to Kuntala province. He had a son by name Padmaksha from Champakamalini and Makaraksha from Vishaye, the minister's daughter. When these two boys were walking in the outskirts of the town one day, they chanced upon the stallion of Yudhishthira’s Aswamedha yagna; dismayed, they came back and informed their father of it.

Chandrahasa came there, met Krishna and Arjuna, treated them in a royal manner, gave them abundant wealth and army for the Yagna. He anointed his son Makaraksha and went with Krishna and Arjuna along with the army. It is said that the Kubatur is the ancient Kuntala Nagara, the capital of king Chandrahasa. The Kali temple outside the Kubatur village was the site where Dushtabuddhi beheaded himself. An idol of severed head lying near the temple is said to be that of the minister.

Banasura installed Ananta Kotishvara Linga at Kubatur:

As per legend, Banasura installed Ananta Kotishvara Linga at Kubatur in Krita Yuga.

Kaitabheshvara Temple, Kubatur, Karnataka

Kaitabheshvara Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Kubatur Village Anavatti in Soraba Taluk in Shimoga District in the Indian state of Karnataka. This temple is situated on the outskirts of Kubatur village, in a place popularly known as Kotipura. The temple is protected as monuments of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

Legends

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/05/kaitabheshvara-temple-kubatur-legends.html

History

The temple was constructed during the reign of Hoysala King Vinayaditya around 1100 CE. The Hoysalas was a powerful feudatory of the Western Chalukya Empire ruled by King Vikramaditya VI. The temple received extensive patronage from the Chalukyas, Seunas and Hoysalas. Lord Shiva of this temple was called as Kotishvara / Kotinatha as per the inscriptions in the temple.

Kubatur was called as Kuppattur, Kuntala Nagara and Kotipura in the inscriptions. Kubatur was an important center of the also established itself as an important center of the Kalamukha sect during 11^th century CE. The Kalamukha priest of the temple, Rudra Shakthi Deva was appointed as the Raja Guru by the Seuna king Simhana II as evident from his inscriptions.

The Temple

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/05/kaitabheshvara-temple-kubatur-temple.html

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 2 Kms from Anavatti, 4 Kms from Anavatti Bus Stand, 26 Kms from Hangal, 28 Kms from Shiralakoppa, 29 Kms from Soraba, 47 Kms from Haveri, 48 Kms from Haveri Railway Station, 99 Kms from Shimoga, 114 Kms from Hubballi Airport and 367 Kms from Bengaluru. The temple is situated at about 2 Kms from Anavatti on Anavatti to Hangal route. KSRTC buses and also several private buses are available regularly from Bangalore to Hangal. Buses are available from Hangal to Anavatti. Kubatur is well connected to Anavatti by Auto and other local means of transport.

Location

Dyamavva Temple, Kubatur, Karnataka

Dyamavva Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Goddess Sakthi located in Kubatur Village Anavatti in Soraba Taluk in Shimoga District in the Indian state of Karnataka. Kubatur was called as Kuppattur, Kuntala Nagara and Kotipura during ancient times.

The Temple

The temple enshrines a wooden image of Mahishasura Mardini, a form of Goddess Durga. Her image is about 10 feet tall. She is sixteen armed holding several weapons. The demon Mahishasura can be seen at her feet. The prabhavali around the image is carved with the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu and ashta dikpalas at cardinal points.

Connectivity

Location

Mahadeva Temple, Chhimka, Madhya Pradesh

Mahadeva Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located at Chhimka Village in Gohad Tehsil in Bhind District in Madhya Pradesh, India. The Temple is one of the state protected monuments in Madhya Pradesh declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

History

The temple is believed to be built in 10^th century CE by Kachchhapaghata rulers.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east and follows mandapika style of architecture. The sanctum is square on plan. There are no images carved on the external walls.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 5 Kms from Gohad Road Railway Station, 6 Kms from Gohad, 23 Kms from Mehgaon, 30 Kms from Gwalior Airport, 36 Kms from Gwalior Railway Station, 37 Kms from Gwalior, 42 Kms from Bhind, 54 Kms from Morena and 135 Kms from Jhansi. The temple is situated on Gwalior to Bhind route.

Location

Mahadeva Temple, Ater, Madhya Pradesh

Mahadeva Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located at Ater Village in Ater Tehsil in Bhind District in Madhya Pradesh, India. The temple is situated close to Ater Fort. The temple is one of the state protected monuments in Madhya Pradesh declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

History

The temples were built by Bhadauria King Badan Singh in the 18^th century CE.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east and stands over a raised platform. The temple can be accessed through flight of steps. The temple had four entrances originally but later three of the entrances were closed. The sanctum enshrines a Shiva Linga. The shikara over the sanctum is dome shaped and topped by a kalasha on it.

Devi Temple:

This temple is surrounded by sati memorials. The temple is square on plan with entrances on all four sides. The shikara over the sanctum is dome shaped.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 15 Kms from Jaitpur Kalan Halt Railway Station, 27 Kms from Bhind Railway Station, 29 Kms from Bhind, 30 Kms from Bhind Bus Stand, 34 Kms from Porsa, 42 Kms from Mehgaon, 83 Kms from Morena and 85 Kms from Gwalior Airport. The temple is situated on Bhind to Jaitpur Kalan route.

Location

Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Vignasanthe, Karnataka

Lakshmi Narasimha Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in Vignasanthe Village in Tiptur Taluk in Tumkur District, in the Indian state of Karnataka. This temple is considered as one of the lesser known Hoysala temples of Karnataka. The Temple is protected by the Karnataka state division of the Archaeological Survey of India.

History

The Temple was built in 1286 CE by three brothers namely Appaya, Gopala and Madhava, who were military generals of the King Narasimha III of Hoysala Dynasty.

The Temple

The temple is constructed in trikutachala style, consisting of three shrines, one each on north, south and west. The western shrine connects to the navaranga via vestibule while the other two shrines connects directly to the navaranga. The navaranga is preceded by an open mukha mandapa. The mukha mandapa is supported by lathe turned half pillars and parapets on either side.

The exterior of the parapet wall, the domical ceiling, the lintel over the entrance and the pillars are profusely decorated. The ceiling of the navaranga (closed hall) is supported by four lathe turned pillars which divide the ceiling into nine decorated bays. The central shrine (western shrine) is the most prominent one. This shrine has a antrala (vestibule) that connects the shrine to the navaranga.

The tower over the central shrine and the vestibule are intact & decorative. The tower over the sanctum is crowned with kalasa on top. The tower is divided into tiers with each tier diminishing in height and culminating in an umbrella like structure. The vestibule has a superstructure called sukhanasi. It looks like a shorter extension of the main tower. The Hoysala crest (emblem of the Sala stabbing a lion) over the sukhanasi is missing.

The lateral shrines are without towers and sukanasis. The inner wall of the shrine is square and plain whereas the outer wall is stellate (star shaped) with numerous recesses and projections that are used for decorative relief. The outer wall of the vestibule is decorative but inconspicuous because it appears like a short continuation of the shrine outer wall.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 16 Kms from Turuvekere, 16 Kms from Turuvekere Bus Stand, 17 Kms from Tiptur, 17 Kms from Tiptur Railway Station, 18 Kms from Tiptur Bus Stand, 80 Kms from Tumkur, 130 Kms from Mysuru, 140 Kms from Bengaluru and 162 Kms from Bengaluru Airport. The Temple is located at about 3 Kms from Nonavinakere off the Tiptur to Turuvekere route.

Location

Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Javagal – The Temple

The temple is facing towards east with a mahadvara. The temple stands on a raised platform (jagati), a feature common to many Hoysala temples. The platform provides ample space for the devotess to circumbulate the temple. The temple is constructed in trikutachala style, consisting of three shrines, one each on north, south and west.

The western shrine houses Sridhara, northern shrine houses Lakshmi Narasimha and southern shrine houses Venugopala. The shrine housing Lakshmi Narasimha is given prominence here. The western shrine connects to the navaranga via vestibule while the other two shrines connects directly to the navaranga.

The navaranga is preceded by an open mukha mandapa. All the three shrines are square in plan. The central shrine (western shrine) is the most prominent one. This shrine has an antrala (vestibule) that connects the shrine to the navaranga. The tower over the central shrine and the vestibule are intact and highly decorative.

The kalasa on top of the tower is replaced with metallic pinnacle at later stage. The vestibule has a superstructure called sukhanasi. It looks like a shorter extension of the main tower. The Hoysala crest (emblem of the Sala stabbing a lion) over the sukhanasi is missing. The lateral shrines are without towers and sukanasis.

The lower part of the shrines (below the roof) have five projections per side, these projections being visible on three sides in the case of the central shrine but only on one side in the case of the lateral shrines. The eaves runs around the sanctum where the superstructure meets the wall of the shrine. The eaves projects about half a meter from the wall. Miniature decorative towers can be seen below this eaves.

Second eves can be seen below this decorative towers. Friezes of Hindu deities and their attendants can be seen below the second eaves. There are about 140 intricately carved sculptures. Notable among them are Rama, Lakshmana, Badri Narayan, Anandha Padmanaba, Ganesha, Garuda carrying Vishnu & his consort, Kaliya Mardana and Narasimha slaying Hiranyakasipu.

Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Javagal, Karnataka

Lakshmi Narasimha Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in Javagal Town in Arasikere Taluk in Hassan District, in the Indian state of Karnataka. This temple is considered as one of the lesser known Hoysala temples of Karnataka. This temple is a protected monument under the Karnataka state division of the Archaeological Survey of India.

History

The Temple was built in 1250 CE by the King Vira Someshwara of Hoysala Dynasty. The village is the native place for the former Indian fast bowler Javagal Srinath.

The Temple

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/05/lakshmi-narasimha-temple-javagal-temple.html

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 10 Kms from Belavadi, 13 Kms from Halebidu, 15 Kms from Banavara Railway Station, 18 Kms from Banavara, 24 Kms from Arasikere Junction Railway Station, 25 Kms from Arasikere, 29 Kms from Belur, 39 Kms from Chikkamagaluru, 40 Kms from Hassan, 156 Kms from Mysuru, 213 Kms from Bengaluru and 237 Kms from Bengaluru Airport. The Temple is situated on Halebidu to Banavara route.

Location

Bhalei Mata Temple, Bhalai – Legends

As per legend, Goddess Bhadra Kali appeared in the dreams of a king named Raja Pratap Singh and informed him about her presence in a place called Bhran about 3 Kms from the current temple. She ordered the king to bring her from Bhran and build a temple for her. The king decided to build a temple for her in Chamba Town. The king accompanied with his officials went to Bhran and discovered the idol. They started their journey back to Chamba. They decided to take rest at Bhalei.

When they resumed their journey, they could not able to lift the palanquin in which the deity is housed. A Brahmin priest from the nearby Kilod village was invited to interpret the omen. He informed the king that the deity did not want to go to Chamba and desired her temple to be built in Bhalei itself. Even, the locals were not happy over the idea of the deity being taken to Chamba, so they requested the king to construct the temple at Bhalei.

The king decided to respect the wishes of the deity as well as locals and built this temple. The idol of Bhadrakali was robbed by some miscreants in 1973. It is believed that after reaching a certain distance, they were not able to see anything. when they drop the idol, they were able to see things. They were terrified, left the idol and ran away from the temple. The idol was recovered at Chohra near the dam.

Bhalei Mata Temple, Bhalai, Himachal Pradesh

Bhalei Mata Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Goddess Bhadra Kali located at Bhalai Village in Bhalai Tehsil in Chamba District in Himachal Pradesh, India. The Temple is situated at an altitude of 3,800 feet (1,200 m) high spur in Bhalei.

Legends

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/05/bhalei-mata-temple-bhalai-legends.html

History

The Temple was built by King Pratap Singh of Chamba State and later renovated by the King Shri Singh in 18^th century CE. The idol of Bhadrakali was robbed by some miscreants in 1973 but recovered at Chohra near the present dam site.

The Temple

The Temple is situated at an altitude of 3,800 feet (1,200 m) high spur in Bhalei. The sanctum enshrines an image Bhadra Kali, locally called as Bhalei Mata. The deity is in the front of an image of black stone of two feet height.

Festivals

A big havan ceremony is performed during the navratras of Ashwin and Chait months.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 24 Kms from Surangani, 31 Kms from Chamba, 44 Kms from Dalhousie, 108 Kms from Pathankot Junction Railway Station, 108 Kms from Pathankot, 113 Kms from Pathankot Airport and 342 Kms from Shimla. The temple is situated on Dalhousie to Surangani route.

Location

Mahadeva Temple, Dang, Madhya Pradesh

Mahadeva Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located at Dang Village in Gohad Tehsil in Bhind District in Madhya Pradesh, India. The Temple is one of the state protected monuments in Madhya Pradesh declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

History

The temple is believed to be built in 8^th century CE by Gurjara Pratihara rulers.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east and stands over a high raised platform. The temple consists of sanctum and antrala. The original shikara was lost and later built during the reign of Jat rulers of Gohad. The exterior walls of the sanctum are decorated with images of Hindu deities. The base of the door jamb has images of river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna. Krishna Leela is carved in the upper portion of the lalata bimba.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 6 Kms from Gohad Road Railway Station, 7 Kms from Gohad, 10 Kms from Gohad Bus Stand, 18 Kms from Mehgaon, 37 Kms from Gwalior Airport, 37 Kms from Bhind and 43 Kms from Gwalior. The temple is situated on Mehgaon to Gwalior route.

Location

Ranganatha Temple, Nellore – The Temple

This temple is facing towards west, but the eastern entrance is provided with seven tiered rajagopuram. This rajagopuram is famously called as Gaaligopuram (means wind tower). This gopuram is about 70 feet high and has seven gold plated kalashas on top of it. The gopuram was constructed by Yeragudipati Venkatachalam Panthulu. Stucco images of Lord Brahma, Lord Shiva, Azhwars, Acharyas, sages and goddesses can be seen on the rajagopuram.

The sanctum enshrines an image of Lord Ranganatha Swamy. He is seen in Ananda Sayana (reclining) posture on the serpent Sesha. Generally, the deity faces towards the east in most of the temples but here it is facing towards west (towards the river Penna). The idol is about 10 feet long. Sridevi can be seen sitting on his chest and Lord Brahma can be seen sitting on a lotus rising from the navel.

Idols of Sridevi and Bhudevi can be seen at the feet of the Lord. Utsava idols can be seen in front of the main deity. An idol of goddess Ranganayaki can be seen in the sanctum. She is four armed and in sitting posture. Sri Vishnu Sahasra Namavali (1000 different names of Lord Vishnu) are written on the walls of the sanctum. Devotees chant Sri Vishnu Sahasra Namavali while doing the parikrama around the temple.

There is a separate shrine of Goddess Rajya Lakshmi Devi to the south of the sanctum and Goddess Andal shrine to the north of the sanctum. The mirror house is the main attraction of this temple. There are shrines for Venkateshwara, Narasimha, Azhwars and Acharyas in the temple premises. There is Santhana Vriksha, a tree which is believed to grant the boon of begetting children to childless couples.

The women devotees tear a corner of their sarees, put their offerings in the pieces of cloth and tie them as swings to the tree. There is an underground tunnel beneath this tree which was once used by the sages to reach the temple. It is said that those who give their offerings at this place in Kondi Kasuli Hundi can get rid of venomous bites of scorpions and snakes.

Ranganatha Temple, Nellore, Andhra Pradesh

Ranganatha Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in Nellore City in Nellore Mandal in Nellore District in Andhra Pradesh, India. This temple is famously called as Talpagiri Ranganathaswamy Temple. This temple is one of the oldest temples in Nellore and situated on the banks of the Penna River.

Legends

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/05/ranganatha-temple-nellore-legends.html

History

This temple is believed to be built the Pallava Kings during 8^th century CE. This temple was later completely reconstructed by King Raja Mahendra Varma in the 12^th century CE. The temple had been extensively renovated by the rulers of Simhapuri. The floods in the Pennar river in the earlier days were so unpredictable which gave rise to a maxim in Telugu “Penna Dhatuthe Perumala Seva” means “If one will cross Penna watercourse then we are able to see of offerings to Perumal. In the year 1946, the water level in Penna rose to 25.6 feet and touched the feet of Lord Ranganatha idol.

Tikkana Somayaji, a 13^th century Telugu poet, was the second poet of the Trinity of Poets (Kavi Trayam) that translated Mahabharata into Telugu. Nannaya Bhattaraka, the first, translated two and a half chapters of Mahabharata. Tikkana translated the final 15 chapters but did not undertake translating the half-finished Aranya Parvamu. The Telugu people remained without this last translation for more than a century, until it was translated by Errana. It is said that Tikkana Somayaji translated the final 15 chapters of the Mahabharata in this temple.

The Temple

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/05/ranganatha-temple-nellore-temple.html

Temple Opening Time

The temple remains open from 06.00 AM to 12.00 Noon and 02.00 PM to 09.00 PM.

Festivals

Annual Brahmotsavam is celebrated during the month of March – April. Ratha Yatra and Vaikunta Ekadasi are the other famous festivals celebrated here.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 1 Km from Nellore Railway Station, 2 Kms from Nellore Atmakur Bus Stand, 125 Kms from Tirupati Airport, 138 Kms from Tirupati, 179 Kms from Chennai and 195 Kms from Chennai Airport. Nellore is situated on Chennai to Kolkata route (NH – 16). Nellore is well connected to other parts of Andhra Pradesh and Chennai. Frequent Direct buses to Nellore are available from Tirupati. Nellore Railway Station is an important station in Chennai – Kolkata railway line.

Location

Akkanna Madanna Caves, Vijayawada – The Cave Temples

The Akkanna Madanna Caves consist of two cave complexes namely the upper (larger) cave and the lower cave. The caves are located at the foothills of the Indrakeelaadri hills.

Upper Cave Temple:

The upper cave is excavated on a vertically rising rocky cliff and is facing towards east. The cave temple consists of three shrines, a pillared mandapa and façade. The façade can be accessed through flight of six steps. The steps are flanked by elephant headed balustrades. The façade is supported by a row of six square pillars and two pilasters. The top portion of the pillars are gone.

The mandapa after the façade is supported by two rows of six pillars and two pilasters each. These pillars are octagonal in shape and simple in design. The three shrines are carved on the back wall and each shrine is provided with steps for reaching it. The central shrine is larger than the two side shrines. The central shrines enshrines a Shiva Linga excavated from the mother rock.

But the Linga was vandalized and now replaced with another Shiva Linga. The side shrines has pedestal in its sanctum. The idols of Brahma and Vishnu once stood over the pedestal are missing now. There is a platform in front of the sanctum might have housed a Nandi. But the Nandi is missing currently. There are niche shrines with steps in the lateral walls of the mandapa on the northern and southern side.

One of the niche shrine houses an image of Ganesha. The caves are devoid of any sculptures or ornamentation on the pillars and walls except the niche shrines. The upper cave has an inscription on the free-standing pillar to the south. It contains the phrase Sri Utpati Pidugu. The inscription is paleographically more archaic than the other nearby caves in Moghalrajpuram, Undavalli, Bhokardan and Satyavolu.

Lower Cave Temple:

The lower cave was excavated on the same rocky cliff and is facing towards east. The cave temple consists of three shrines, a pillared mandapa and façade. The northern shrine is least preserved and the southern most shrine is the most preserved. All the shrines have flight of steps to reach the mandapa. The mandapa is supported by two rows of two pillars followed by the sanctum in the back wall of the cave.

All the shrines are guarded by dvarapalas but have been vandalized badly during the Islamic onslaught. All the shrines are dedicated to different forms of Lord Shiva. All the shrines enshrines a Shiva Linga in it. The southern lateral wall of the mandapa has a niche enshrining an image of four armed Valampuri Vinayaga. The lower caves are decorated with makara torana and other artwork.

Park:

There is a small to the north side of the lower caves. This park contains inscribed pillars, a restored inscribed granite mandapa and architectural fragments recovered from the nearby damaged temples. There is a unique Kiratarjuna pillar with artwork and inscription visible on all four sides. This pillar was on the hill close to the Kanaka Durga temple. It was moved here after 1950 for better preservation and the convenience of the visitors. The inscription on this pillar is dated to 9^th century CE. It along with the panels recite the Hindu legend about Arjuna's yogic effort to gain the Pasupatha weapon from Shiva.

Akkanna Madanna Caves, Vijayawada – History

The Akkanna Madanna Caves are dated to 7^th century CE. These caves were excavated by the Eastern Chalukyan dynasty. Though the caves are from the 7^th century CE, they are currently named after two brothers namely Akkanna and Madanna of the 17^th century CE. The Akkanna Madanna caves are protected monuments of national importance, managed by the Archaeological Survey of India.

The earlier life of the brothers were unknown, and they became famous during the last decades of political and economic turmoil of the 17^th century CE Qutb Shahi dynasty, a Shia Islamic dynasty ruling Golconda Sultanate. Golconda was already under siege from Aurangzeb, then governor of the Deccan region (later the Mughal emperor). The brothers helped Tana Shah gain the throne.

In gratitude, Tana Shah appointed the brothers as ministers, making them responsible for collecting the jizya tax from the non-Muslim citizens. The brothers soon were responsible for all tax collection. They used the taxes for the welfare of the people, the upkeep of the existing temples, building new temples and appointing more Brahmins including their famous nephew named Bhadrachala Ramadasu to various positions within the Golconda Sultanate.

Aurangzeb came to know about Akkanna and Madanna and the powers wielded by them through the Muslim officials in the Golconda Sultanate. He sent his army and defeated the Sultanate. The Mughal army led by Shah Alam, the son of Aurangzeb, beheaded Akkanna and Madanna. The assassination was done with the knowledge of Abul Hasan Tana Shah. Several monuments in the former Golconda, including these caves continue to be remembered after the Akkanna and Madanna brothers.

Akkanna Madanna Caves, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh

Akkanna Madanna Caves are group of rock cut Hindu cave temples located in Vijayawada City in Krishna District of Andhra Pradesh, India. The cave temples are situated at the foot of the Indrakeelaadri hill where the Kanaka Durga Temple is located. The temples are situated on the banks of Krishna river. The Akkanna Madanna caves are protected monuments of national importance, managed by the Archaeological Survey of India.

History

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/05/akkanna-madanna-caves-vijayawada-history.html

The Cave Temples

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/05/akkanna-madanna-caves-vijayawada-cave-temples.html

Connectivity

The Cave Temples are located at about 2 Kms from Vijayawada Bus Stand, 2 Kms from Vijayawada Junction Railway Station, 22 Kms from Vijayawada Airport and 35 Kms from Amaravathi. The caves are situated at the foot of the Indrakeelaadri hill where the Kanaka Durga Temple is located. Vijayawada is well connected to other parts of Andhra Pradesh and India by all means of Transport.

Location

Tulja Bhavani Temple, Chittorgarh, Rajasthan

Tulja Bhavani Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to goddess Durga located in Chittorgarh City in Chittorgarh Taluk in Chittorgarh District in the western Indian state of Rajasthan. The temple is situated near Ram Pol, the main entrance gate of the Chittorgarh Fort.

History

This temple was constructed in 1535 CE. The Temple is one of the state protected monuments in Rajasthan declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east and stands over a high raised platform. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala and sabha mandapa with an entrance porch. The sabha mandapa is enclosed by lower parapet walls with kakasanas in the interior. The pillars of the sabha mandapa are intricately carved showing ghatapallava design. The sanctum enshrines an image of the presiding deity, Tulja Bhawani / Turya Bhawani, a form of goddess Durga.

Connectivity

The Chittorgarh Fort is located at about 5 Kms from Chittorgarh Bus Stand, 7 Kms from Chittorgarh Junction Railway Station, 38 Kms from Nimbahera, 63 Kms from Bhilwara, 98 Kms from Udaipur Airport and 116 Kms from Udaipur. Chittorgarh is situated on Bhilwara to Nimbahera route. Chittorgarh is well connected to all parts of India by roads. The Golden Quadrilateral Road Project and North-South-East-West corridor expressways pass through Chittorgarh City.

Location

Yajneswara Temple, Kharagprasad, Odisha

Yajneswara Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Kharagprasad Village in Motunga Block in Dhenkanal District in Odisha, India. The temple is situated on the southern bank of Brahmani river.

History

The temple was constructed during the rule of princely state of Dhenkanal in 19^th century CE. The temple is a protected monument of Odisha State Archaeology and under Endowment Department, Government of Odisha.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east. The temple is pancharatha on plan and panchangabada in elevation. The temple consists of rekha vimana, pidha jagamohana and a new concrete mandapa. The vimana and jagamohana are square on plan and stands over a low platform. The sanctum enshrines the presiding deity, Yajneswara in the form of Shiva Linga within a square yonipitha. The temple is devoid of any decorations except dopichhasimhas and deulacharinis over the beki and udyotasimha on each raha.

Festivals

Shivarathri, Kartika Purnima and Rakhi Purnima are the festivals celebrated here.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 3 Kms from Masani Chowk, 5 Kms from Meramandali Railway Station, 20 Kms from Angul, 26 Kms from Talcher, 43 Kms from Dhenkanal, 109 Kms from Bhubaneshwar and 115 Kms from Bhubaneshwar Airport. The temple is situated on the Dhenkanal to Angul route (NH 55). Devotees need to take the branch road at Masani Chowk and travel for about 3 Kms towards the Brahmani river to reach this temple.

Location

Shyamchand Temple, Santipur, West Bengal

Shyamchand Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in Santipur Town in the Ranaghat subdivision of Nadia district in the Indian state of West Bengal, India. This temple is considered as one of the largest atchala style of temple in West Bengal. The Temple is one of the state protected monuments in West Bengal declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

History

The temple was built in 1726 CE by a wealthy business man Ram Gopal Khan Choudhury (of local Tantubai Samaj) at a cost of nearly Rs 2 lakh. The king of Nadia once headed the temple committee.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards south and stands over a raised platform. The temple measures 15.8 m (L) X 11 m (W) X 21.3 m (H) and enclosed with in a compound wall. The temple follows atchala style of architecture. The atchala style is similar to the four-sided char chala temple style, but with a small replica of the base temple on top.

The temple consists of sanctum and a verandah with five archway. The sanctum enshrines the images of Shyamchand and Radha. There is a Natamandir in front of the temple. The temple is devoid of any terracotta ornamentation except the lotus plaques.

Temple Opening Time

The temple remains open from 06.00 AM to 12.00 Noon and 04.00 PM to 08.30 PM.

Festivals

The annual festival is celebrated in Bengali Poush (Dec-Jan) after the Ras festival.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 200 metres from Panchanan Tala Bus Stop, 3 Kms from Santipur Junction Railway Station, 11 Kms from Kalna, 13 Kms from Guptipara, 16 Kms from Ranaghat, 21 Kms from Krishnanagar, 28 Kms from Nabadwip, 90 Kms from Kolkata Airport and 93 Kms from Kolkata. Santipur is well connected with North and South Bengal by various State Transport Services. National Highway 12 passes through the Santipur Town. Santipur railway station is well connected by rail by EMU railway services running from Sealdah railway station (Main section).

Location

Sun Temple, Sonatapal, West Bengal

Sun Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Surya located in Sonatapal village near Bankura town in Bankura district in the Indian state of West Bengal. The temple is situated on the banks of Dwarakeswar River. The temple has been classified as a monument of national importance by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

History

The temple is believed to be built in 11th century CE. Sonatapal was known as Hamirdanga in ancient times. It is said that the region is under the control of Kings of Bishnupur. The mounds near the river are said to be part of his fort.

The Temple

This brick temple is facing towards east and stands over a low raised platform. The temple follows rekha deul architecture. The temple was completely reconstructed but retaining some of the ancient terracotta works.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 5 Kms from Bheduasol Railway Station, 6 Kms from Bankura, 7 Kms from Bankura Junction Railway Station, 12 Kms from Bankura Bus Stand, 30 Kms from Bishnupur, 63 Kms from Durgapur Airport and 167 Kms from Kolkata. The temple is situated at about 5 Kms from Bheduasol Railway Station on Bankura to Bishnupur route.

Location

Kanakesvara Temple, Kanpur, West Bengal

Kanakesvara Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Kanpur village in the Arambagh CD block in the Arambagh subdivision of Hooghly district in the Indian state of West Bengal. Kanpur is situated between Mundeshvari river and Dwarakeswar river.

History

The temple is believed to be built in 19^th century CE. The Temple is one of the state protected monuments in West Bengal declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

The Temple

The temple follows eka ratna style of architecture. The temple has a square flat roof with curved cornices and a pinnacle over the top. It has open verandah with triple arched entrance on all sides of the temple.

Festivals

Gajan festival of Lord Shiva and the Kalu Rai fair are the festivals celebrated here with much fanfare.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 5 Kms from Muthadanga Bus Stop, 7 Kms from Arambagh, 8 Kms from Arambagh Bus Stand, 9 Kms from Arambagh Railway Station, 65 Kms from Bishnupur, 80 Kms from Kolkata Airport and 82 Kms from Kolkata. The temple is situated at about 5 Kms from Muthadanga on Kolkata to Bishnupur route before Arambagh.

Location

Basuli Temple, Atbaichandi, West Bengal

Basuli Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to goddess Sakthi located in Atbaichandi village in the Indpur CD block in the Khatra subdivision of the Bankura district in the state of West Bengal, India. This temple is believed to be built by the rulers of the Mallabhum Kingdom. The Temple is one of the state protected monuments in West Bengal declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

The Temple

The temple is facing towards east. It consists of sanctum and a shallow porch. The sanctum enshrines an idol of Basuli. The shikara over the sanctum follows pidha style of architecture. This village hosts ruins of ancient temples, idols and remains of heritage structures spread across the village.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 10 Kms from Indpur, 19 Kms from Bankura Bus Stand, 21 Kms from Bankura Junction Railway Station, 22 Kms from Bankura, 31 Kms from Khatra, 69 Kms from Durgapur, 86 Kms from Durgapur Airport, 186 Kms from Kolkata Airport and 188 Kms from Kolkata. The temple is situated at about 10 Kms from Indpur on the Bankura to Khatra route.

Location

Hooli Group of Temples – The Group of Temples

Hooli village consists of several ancient times scattered around the village. Most of the temples are in dilapidated condition and in need of conservation. Most of the temples have their floor dug up for treasure hunts, so much is lost and stolen. Panchalingeshwara Temple is the most important temple in the village. It is the least damaged and remains intact.

Panchalingeshwara Temple:

This temple is a rare example of Panchakuta (five shrines with five towers) style. This temple is facing towards east. The temple consists five sanctums with their respective sukhanasi, common navaranga and an open mukha mandapa. The mukha mandapa has a staggered square plan and can be entered from five sides; two lateral and one each in the north, south and east.

The mukha mandapa is large and its ceiling is supported by massive pillars. The mukha mandapa is enclosed by parapet walls on all sides. The outer pillars are placed on parapet with moldings with low-relief sculptures. Images of Sapta Matrikas, Vishnu, Bhairava, Ranganatha, Varaha, Shiva and Ganapathy can be seen in the navaranga. Three sanctums are arranged in a row at the back and other two shrines are on the sides facing each other.

All these sanctums are crowned with Kadamba nagara style shikaras. The exterior walls of the temple are plain and devoid of any decorations. The temple has four inscriptions (two slabs in the navaranga and two outside, of which one is broken). The navaranga has an inscription dated to 1181 CE belonging to the Kalachuri ruler Ahavamalla, son of Bijjala. It records the gift of watershed to the temple. There is a modern Hari Mandir situated opposite to this temple.

Other Temples:

The other notable temples situated in the village are;

· Andhakeshwara Temple

· Bhavnisankara Temple

· Kalmeshwara Temple

· Kashi Vishwanatha Temple

· Madaneshwara Temple

· Suryanarayan Temple

· Tarkeshwara Temple

· Sangameshwara Ajjanavaru Temple

· Beerdevar Temple

· Suryanarayan Temple

Hooli Group of Temples, Karnataka

Hooli Group of Temples are group of Hindu Temples located in Hooli Village in Parasgad Taluk in Belagavi District in the Indian state of Karnataka. Hooli village consists of several ancient times scattered around the village. Panchalingeshwara Temple is the most important temple in the village. The temples are protected monuments under the Karnataka state division of the Archaeological Survey of India.

History

Hooli was called as Mahishpati Nagar and Hoovalli / Poovalli (flowery ear ornament) in ancient times. Hooli was mentioned in seventh century CE Chalukyan inscription. Hooli was an ancient agrahara and a renowned Kalamukha center.

The Group of Temples

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/04/hooli-group-of-temples-group-of-temples.html

Connectivity

Hooli is located at about 6 Kms from Hoolikatti, 10 Kms from Saundatti, 11 Kms from Saundatti Bus Stand, 27 Kms from Nargund, 55 Kms from Mallapur Railway Station, 64 Kms from Hubballi Airport and 98 Kms from Belagavi. The temple is situated on the Saundatti to Hoolikatti route.

Location

Shambhu Lingesvara Temple, Itagi, Karnataka

Shambhu Lingesvara Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Itagi Village in Ron Taluk in Gadag District in the Indian state of Karnataka. The temple is one of the state protected monuments in Karnataka declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

History

The temple is believed to be built in 11^th century CE by the Western Chalukyas. The temple suffered destruction during Islamic invasion in this region.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala, sabha mandapa and open pillared mukha mandapa. The mukha mandapa is enclosed with parapet walls on all sides with kakasanas at the interior. The mukha mandapa is supported by intricately carved pillars at the centre and by short pillars at the kakasanas. The sanctum enshrines the presiding deity, Shambhu Lingesvara in the form of Linga. The Linga is said to be a Udhbhava Linga. The exterior of the temple is devoid of any decorations. The shikara over the sanctum is lost completely.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 3.5 Kms from Itagi Cross Road Bus Stop, 5 Kms from Sudi, 5 Kms from Sudi Bus Stand, 14 Kms from Rona, 18 Kms from Gajendragad, 34 Kms from Badami, 36 Kms from Pattadakal, 50 Kms from Gadag Railway Station, 50 Kms from Gadag and 102 Kms from Hubballi Airport. The temple is situated at about 5 Kms from Sudi on Gajendragad to Rona route.

Location

Bhimambhika Temple, Itagi, Karnataka

Bhimambhika Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Hindu Saint Bhimambhika located in Itagi Village in Ron Taluk in Gadag District in the Indian state of Karnataka.

History

Sri Bhimambhika was an ancient Shaivite saint was born in a devout Hindu family by the grace of Goddess Banashankari. It is said that her mother Hanumakka prayed continuously for 12 years to the Goddess Banashankari and Bhimambhika was born as a result of her prayers. Sri Bhimambhika exhibited divines qualities and was compassionate to the people from her childhood. She got married to her cousin and gave birth to her son Kalingappa. His son was also a renowned saint and performed several miracles.

The Temple

The temple, actually a mutt is dedicated to Hindu saint Bhimambhika. The 8^th generation of her family members are taking care of the mutt and performing puja regularly. A simple meal of broken jowar (sangati/mudda) and tomato rasam (saaru) is served to all the visitors throughout the day in the community free kitchen. Sabha Bhavan, an accommodation facility is available behind the temple. Devotees can stay in this facility at a nominal rent.

Festivals

Darty Dharma Devaru Jatra is celebrated here annually. It is considered as one of the famous Jatra in in North Karnataka. Tuesdays and Fridays are considered special here.

Prayers

A devotee wishing for a desire ties a coconut in the mutt premises and prays to her. Once the desire / wish is fulfilled, the devotee has to come back and un-tie a coconut in the premises and do the thanksgiving to the saint.

Connectivity

Location

Someshvara Temple, Haranhalli – The Temple

The temple is facing towards east with a mahadvara. The temple stands on a raised platform (jagati), a feature common to many Hoysala temples. The platform provides ample space for the devotess to circumbulate the temple. The platform has three flights of steps, leading to the three entrances at the navaranga. The temple is constructed in ekakuta (single shrine) style but made to look like a trikuta (three shrined) due to the two simple lateral shrine like structures. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala and navaranga.

The navaranga has nine bays and three extensions to the east, south and north. The four central pillars are in the shape of a round bell, while the remaining six pillars are star-shaped. The two pillars near the doorway (east) are more ornate and their bases have sculptured panels of Kailasa lifting Ravana, Govardhanagiridhari, Venugopala etc. The navaranga has six niches enshrining Sapta Matrikas, Saraswathi, Mahishasura Mardhini, Ganesha, Shanmuka etc. The navaranga has twelve artistic ceilings in varied shapes such as octagonal circles, concentric circles and octagons.

The sanctum doorway has a flat padma ceiling. The sanctum enshrines the presiding deity, Someshvara, in the form of Shiva Linga. The main shrine is stellate (star-shaped), has a complete superstructure (tower or shikhara) and a sukhanasi (nose or tower over the vestibule) similar to the Lakshmi Narasimha temple. The tower over the shrine and its vestibule (sukhanasi or nose) are intact. The kalasa on top of the tower (the decorative water-pot at the apex of the tower) is however missing. The eaves runs around the sanctum where the superstructure meets the wall of the shrine.

The eaves projects about half a meter from the wall. Miniature decorative towers can be seen below this eaves. Second eves can be seen below this decorative towers. Friezes of Hindu deities and their attendants can be seen below the second eaves. Notable among them are Tandava Ganesha, Mohini, Dharani Varaha, Harihara, Trivikrama, Lakshmi, Durga, Bhairava, Govardhanadhari, Mahishasura Mardhini, Venugopala, the eight-armed dancing Saraswathi, Parvati standing with Ganesha & Kumara, six armed Nataraja, Kalinga Mardhana, the three-headed beardless Brahma and the six-armed Tandaveshwara etc.

A set of six moldings can be seen below the frieze which forms the base of the wall. The first horizontal molding from the jagati contains procession of elephants, second contains horsemen, foliage on the third, depictions from the Hindu epics and puranic scenes are missing in the fourth which has been left blank, friezes of makara in the fifth and friezes of swans in the sixth. A large Nandi can be seen above the southern entrance. A small shrine is attached to the lateral entrance of the temple. The goddess shrine can be seen in the temple premises. It is in ruined state.

Someshvara Temple, Haranhalli, Karnataka

Someshvara Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Haranhalli Village in Arasikere Taluk in Hassan District in the Indian state of Karnataka. This temple is a protected monument under the Karnataka state division of the Archaeological Survey of India. The Temple is situated at about 200 meters from Haranhalli Lakshmi Narasimha Temple.

History

The temple was built in 1235 CE by the King Vira Someshwara of Hoysala Dynasty. There is no foundation inscription available in this temple, but it is believed to have been built around the same time the Kesava temple was constructed. Haranhalli was called as Haruvanahalli / Hiriya Somanathapura.

The Temple

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/04/someshvara-temple-haranhalli-temple.html

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 5 Kms from Habanghatta Railway Station, 9 Kms from Arasikere, 9 Kms from Arasikere Bus Stand, 9 Kms from Arasikere Junction Railway Station, 30 Kms from Halebidu, 35 Kms from Hassan, 46 Kms from Belur, 47 Kms from Channarayapatna, 195 Kms from Bengaluru and 216 Kms from Bengaluru Airport. The temple is situated on the Arasikere to Hassan route.

Location

Basavanna Temple, Tamboor, Karnataka

Basavanna Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Basavanna, one of the most revered saints of the Lingayat faith, located in the Tamboor village in Kalaghatgi Taluk in Chitradurga District in Karnataka, India. The temple is situated at the end of the Devikoppa Forest. Tamboor is an important center of pilgrimage for people of the Lingayat faith.

History

The Temple of Basavanna, one of the most revered saints of the Lingayat faith, was constructed in 12^th century CE. Tamboor is an important center of pilgrimage for people of the Lingayat faith. The village was called as Tamra Nagar due to the huge availability of copper in earlier years. Later, Tamra Nagar got corrupted to Tamroor and Tamboor.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala and sabha mandapa. The sabha mandapa can be accessed through the eastern and southern entrance. The sanctum enshrines an image of Basavanna, one of the most revered saints of the Lingayat faith. Ruins of shrines, architectural fragments, hero stones, yoni pithas and Lingas in the temple premises.

Festivals

The Tamboor Jatra is the major fair celebrated here. During the Jatra, Panchamsali Lingayaths visit here in large numbers.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 12 Kms from Kalaghatgi, 12 Kms from Kalaghatgi Bus Stand, 33 Kms from Yellapur, 40 Kms from Hubballi Airport, 41 Kms from Hubbali Junction Railway Station and 46 Kms from Dharwad. The temple is situated at about 3 Kms from the main road on Kalaghatgi to Yellapur route (NH 52).

Location

Teru Malleshvara Temple, Hiriyur, Karnataka

Teru Malleshvara Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Hiriyur Town in Hiriyur Taluk in Chitradurga District in Karnataka, India. The temple is famously called as Dakshina Kashi. The temple is situated on the banks of Vedavati river. The temple is a protected monument under the Karnataka state division of the Archaeological Survey of India. Hiriyur was called as Ghanapuri during ancient times.

Legends

An ardent devotee of Lord Shiva named Belavadi Hema Reddy Mallamma was a resident of this town. She used to travel to Varanasi every year by foot. As she became older, she prayed to Lord Shiva and conveyed her inability to walk to Varanasi to offer her prayers. Pleased with her prayers, Lord Shiva appeared in her dream and informed her that she need not come to Varanasi to see him, he himself would come and reside in Hiriyur. As promised, Lord Shiva is said to have incarnated in the Oralukallu (A cylindrical shaped stone used for grinding purpose in the households). Mallamma worshipped this stone sincerely. The stone worshipped by her later came to be called as Teru Malleshwara.

History

The temple was built around 1466 CE during the rule of the Vijayanagara Kingdom. Kenchana Nayaka was ruling Hiriyur province in 17^th century CE. Rangappa Nayaka, ruler of Sira, attacked Hiriyur in 1637 CE. Kenchana Nayaka requested help from Kasturi Rangappa Nayaka, ruler of Chitradurga by sending the ear studs of his wife through spies. Kasturi Rangappa Nayaka came to rescue Kenchana Nayaka with his army.

The combined armies of Hiriyur and Chitradurga defeated Rangappa Nayaga. After their victory, Kasturi Rangappa Nayaka along with Kenchana Nayaka worshipped Teru Malleswara Swamy and offered the ear studs to Lord Shiva. Hiriyur province was annexed to Chitradurga in later days. Medakari Nayaka II, Polygar of Chitradurga province, built the gopuram of Teru Malleswara Swamy Temple.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards west with five tiered rajagopuram on the southern side. Nandi, Balipeedam and Deepa Sthamba can be found facing towards the sanctum in the outer prakaram. The deepa sthamba is about 45 feet tall with a pavilion at the top enshrining a nandi and 8 lamps in the form of huge iron cups, two in each direction and would be lit once in a year. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala, navaranga and mukha mandapa.

The mukha mandapa has entrances on three sides. The ceiling of the mukha mandapa has murals depicting scenes from the Shiva Purana and the Ramayana. The navaranga has metallic idols of Chandramouleswara and Uma Maheshwara seated on Nandi. The entrance of the antrala is guarded by dvarapalas. The dedicatory block on the lintel of the antrala doorway has Ganesha. The sanctum enshrines the presiding deity, Teru Malleshvara in the Linga form.

Festivals

The Teru Malleshvara Jatra is celebrated annually for a week starting from the full moon day in the month of magha (Jan-Feb).

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 1 Km from Hiriyur Bus Stand, 41 Kms from Chitradurga, 41 Kms from Sira, 45 Kms from Chitradurga Railway Station, 169 Kms from Bengaluru and 183 Kms from Bengaluru Airport. Hiriyur is situated on Bengaluru to Chitradurga route (NH 48). All the buses from Bangalore going towards Hubli, Belgaum, Davanagere and Bellary pass through Hiriyur.

Location

Kambareshwar Temple, Kambare, Maharashtra

Kambareshwar Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located at Kambare Village in Bhor Taluk in Pune District in Maharashtra, India. The temple is originally called as Karmahareshwar Temple. The temple is situated inside a small dam in Velvandi river.

Legends

Once, a farmer ploughed the current temple site and noticed an unknown object hitting the plow. He was curious to know the object and found blood was oozing out from the object. He was so frightened on seeing the blood and immediately left the agricultural field. He went to the field next day and found a Swayambu Linga at the place. He informed the villagers about the miracle and later a temple was built with the help of villagers. It is also said that the temple is believed to be built by Pandavas in single night.

The Temple

This temple is currently under the water of the dam for 10 months of the year and can be visited for two months only (May & June) when the water level in the dam recedes. The temple consists of sanctum and a mandapa. The sanctum enshrines the presiding deity, Kambareshwar / Karmahareshwar in the form of Swayambhu Shiva Linga. Two idols of Nandi can be seen in front of the temple, facing towards the sanctum. The temple also enshrines an image of goddess Parvathy. The walls of the temple are built with stones and roof & upper part are made of limestone and bricks.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 7 Kms from Nasrapur Bus Stand, 8 Kms from Nasrapur, 28 Kms from Bhor, 39 Kms from Pune, 50 Kms from Pune Airport, 84 Kms from Satara and 184 Kms from Mumbai. The temple is situated on Pune to Satara route.

Location

Ghewadeshwar Temple, Mahude Khurd, Maharashtra

Ghewadeshwar Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located at Mahude Khurd Village in Bhor Taluk of Pune District in Maharashtra, India. The temple is located on picturesque Western Ghats mountain range.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east. The temple consists of sanctum and mandapa. The sanctum enshrines the presiding deity, Ghewadeshwar, within a circular yonipitha. Nandi along with a highly eroded idol of elephant and Bana Linga can be found in front of the temple. Sculptures and architectural fragments can be found scattered around the temple premises.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 1 Km from Mahude Khurd, 10 Kms from Ambeghar, 13 Kms from Bhor Bus Stand, 14 Kms from Bhor, 16 Kms from Apti, 65 Kms from Pune and 75 Kms from Pune Airport. The temple is located at about 10 Kms from Ambeghar on Bhor to Apti route.

Location

Anandeshwar Temple, Lasur, Maharashtra

Anandeshwar Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located at Lasur Village in Daryapur Taluk in Amravati District in Maharashtra, India. The temple is situated on the bank of the Purna River. This temple is protected as monuments of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

History

The temple was this temple was constructed by King Ramachandra (1271 – 1311 CE) of the Yadavas of Devagiri.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east and follows Hemadpanthi style of architecture. The temple stands over a raised platform and can be accessed through flight of steps. The temple is constructed in trikutachala style, consisting of three shrines, one each on north, south and west. All the shrines are connected to the open sabha mandapa, also known as swarga mandapa via vestibule.

The sabha mandapa is supported by twelve intricately carved pillars. The sanctum enshrines the presiding deity, Anandeshwar, in the form of Shiva Linga within a yonipitha. The exterior walls, pillars, cornices and roofs of the temple is decorated with sculptures of Hindu deities, yakshas, apsaras, sages, scenes from the puranas and floral & geometrical motifs.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 4 Kms from Ramtirth, 8 Kms from Mhaisang, 14 Kms from Daryapur, 14 Kms from Daryapur Bus Stand, 14 Kms from Daryapur Railway Station, 33 Kms from Akola Junction Railway Station, 37 Kms from Akola, 42 Kms from Akola Airport, 67 Kms from Amravati and 73 Kms from Amravati Airport. The temple is situated on Daryapur to Mhaisang route.

Location

Aishwaryeshwar Temple, Sinnar, Maharashtra

Aishwaryeshwar Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Sinnar City in Sinnar Taluk in Nashik District in Maharashtra, India. The temple is believed to be built in 12^th century CE. The temple is situated close to Sinnar Gondeshwar Temple. This temple is protected as monuments of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

The Temple

The temple is facing towards east and stands over a low raised platform. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala and a pillared mandapa. The mandapa is supported by eight intricately carved pillars. The roof between the mandapa and antrala is lost completely. The torana at the entrance of the antrala has an intricate carving of Nataraja. The sanctum enshrines the presiding deity, Aishwaryeshwar, in the form of Shiva Linga within circular yonipitha.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 1 Km from Sinnar Bus Stand, 28 Kms from Nashik, 21 Kms from Nashik Road Railway Station, 40 Kms from Sangamner, 58 Kms from Shirdi, 58 Kms from Kopargaon, 184 Kms from Mumbai and 185 Kms from Mumbai Airport. Sinnar is situated on Nashik to Sangamner route.

Location

Annamanada Mahadeva Temple, Thrissur – The Temple

This temple is facing towards east, but the main entrance is from the western side. There is a low Valiya Balikkal in front of the Agramandapam on the eastern side and a Bali Peetha equal in height of the basement of the Sri Kovil. The sopana with carved Hasti-hasta railings on either side provides access to the square Mukha Mandapam. The doors on the south and the west lead to the shrines of Lord Ganesh and Goddess Parvati respectively.

The Mukha mandapam and the Sri Kovil have dvi-tala structure, which is covered with copper sheet. The main sanctum (Sree Kovil) is majestic in rectangular form and is two storied without Namaskara mandapa. The spacious mukha mandapa with wooden slat enclosure has two Dwara Palakas just outside the inner sanctum. The sikhara of the sanctum has unique carvings of Hindu pantheon.

The wooden carvings in the Sree Kovil (sanctum), Mukhamandapam and Ceilings of two Dwara Gopurams deserve special mention. There are two Thidappallis forming part of the Nalambalam on either side of the main sanctum. Both the structures have tiled roof. The courtyard is enclosed by a tall compound wall, pierced by openings in the four cardinal directions, of which those in the east and west natas are decorated with dwaragopuras with dvi-tala tiled roof and with carved ceilings.

Presiding Deity is housed in the sanctum in the form of Shiva Lingam. He is facing east. The Shiva Linga is almost four feet tall. It is considered as the Kirathamurthy in a pleasing mood while giving Pasupathastra to Arjuna. The Sanctum is square in shape. This temple is special for its deity positioning. Lord Shiva and Mother Parvathy sit face to face here on same platform. Ganesha is also present in the sanctum.

Lord Vishnu Shrine is situated on the northern side of the Nalambalam. There are shrines of Vishnu, Gosala Krishnan, Narasimha, Durga, Bhadrakali, Nagas and Sastha in the temple premises. There is a tank and the oottupura in the north-east corner in the outer prakaram of the temple premises.

The Annamanada river flows by facing the eastern facade at a distance of around 500 metres, wherein the Aarattu of the Lord takes place on the concluding day of the annual festival. The Devaswom office is located on the west nata beyond the dvaragopuram on the north-west side. This temple is famous for Karimbu Thulabharam.

Annamanada Mahadeva Temple, Thrissur – Legends

108 Shiva Temples of Kerala:

It is mentioned as Koratty Temple in the Shivalaya Nama Stotra. Originally Annamanada was a part of Adoor Gramam (one among the 64 Brahmin Gramams created by Parasurama and Annamanada Mahadeva Temple was the Grama kshetra. Some of the neighbouring villages still known as Meladoor, Keezhadoor etc. Meladoor Bhagavathy Temple is one among the 108 Durga Temples created by Parasurama.

Annamanada:

The name Annamanada came from some Brahmin families (Manas) where Brahmins used to get free food (Annam) in older days. The village where Food (Annam) serving Brahmin families (Manas) situated, later known as Annamanada.

Valiya Balikallu:

The main peculiarity of this temple is the sinking Valiya Balikallu. The sinking of the Valiya Balikallu is attributed to the traditional explanation that, it was ordained by the Lord Shiva for affording clear darshan to the untouchable Pakkanar or to Perumthachan of the legendary Parayi Petta Panthirukulam from outside the naalambalam.

Annamanada Mahadeva Temple, Thrissur – History

The temple was believed to constructed in 8^th Century CE. The temple was considered as one of the thirty two Grama Kshetras in the Kerala coast. Initially, the temple was administered by 10 to 12 Namboothiri Illams. The administration was taken over by Zamorin of Kozhikode in the mid of 18^th Century CE. Cochin rulers usurped the control from Zamorins. Later, the control went to Travancore Rulers. Then, Cochin ruler approached the British East India Company to mediate in their dispute with Travancore regarding control of the temple.

The British East India Company in 1814-15 CE ruled that Cochin had sovereign rights over the Adoor Grama and the Annamanada Temple, but certain rights of the temple were conceded to Travancore state. Later, considering the difficulty of exercising those special rights in a foreign territory, Travancore conceded those rights as well to the Cochin ruler in 1902. Now the temple is being administered by the Cochin Devaswom Board.

The temple has also contributed to the promotion of Koothu and Koodiyattom. Out of the 18 traditional Chakyar families of Kerala, the Mekkatt family had its original habitat near Annamanada. Later, this family along with two other families - Valia Parisha of Ambalapuzha and Cheria Parisha of Kidangoor merged with the Kazhakuttom Chakyars. Cheria Parisha Parameswara Chakyar is credited with the formulation of Mantrankom Koothu of Bhasa in current format in the Annamanada temple in the latter half of nineteenth century.

The Mantrankom Koothu and Koodiyattom used to last for 41 days during the Mandala Kaala starting from Vrischikam first (Nov - Dec). In the absence of a Koothambalam, the Valiyambalam was the venue for staging plays and Annamanada temple is one of the two temples in Kerala where such marathon performance of Koothu used to be held in the Valiyambalam in front of the main Sannidhi. Tantries or chief priests are from Kuttalakkatt and Avanaparambu Namboothiri Illams.

Annamanada Mahadeva Temple, Thrissur, Kerala

Annamanada Mahadeva Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located at Annamanada in Thrissur District in Kerala, India. This Temple is situated on the banks of Chalakudy River. This Temple is considered as one of the 108 Shiva Temples created by Lord Parasurama. The temple is being administered by the Cochin Devaswom Board. Annamanada has produced some of the greatest Panchavadhyam artists.

Legends

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/04/annamanada-mahadeva-temple-thrissur-legends.html

History

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/04/annamanada-mahadeva-temple-thrissur-history.html

The Temple

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/04/annamanada-mahadeva-temple-thrissur-temple.html

Festivals

The annual festival is celebrated during Kumbham (February or March). The festival lasts for ten days. Laksha Deepam on sixth day is very famous. The Thiruvathira Aarattu on the concluding day of the annual festival is done in the Annamanada River. Pradosham, Shivarathri and Ardra (particularly in Dhanu) days are of special significance.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 5 Kms from Koratty, 7 Kms from Koratty Angadi Railway Station, 9 Kms from Mala, 11 Kms from Chalakudy, 13 Kms from Angamaly, 19 Kms from Cochin Airport, 42 Kms from Thrissur and 46 Kms from Cochin. There is a bridge connecting Annamanada to Koratty via Valoor - Pulikkakadavu Palam. Koratty is situated on Salem – Cochin highway.

Location

Thrikkariyoor Mahadeva Temple, Kothamangalam – Legends

108 Shiva Temples of Kerala:

Bhootathankettu:

Lord Shiva was pleased by the devotion of the villagers. Bronze grains were grown in the fields due to the blessings of Lord Shiva. Angered, evil spirits (Bhoothathan) planned to submerge the Thrikkariyoor temple by making a dam in the Periyar river and flooding the area. One night, the evil spirits started building the dam. Sensing the danger, Lord Shiva made a rooster sound to indicate the dawn was approaching. The evil spirits got fear of sun light fled the place. Thus, the village got saved from the danger. The dam built by the demons came to be called as Bhootathankettu.

Pananchery Shiva Temple, Mudikkode, Kerala

Pananchery Shiva Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located at Pananchery in Mudikkode in Thrissur District in Kerala, India. This Temple is considered as one of the 108 Shiva Temples created by Lord Parasurama.

Legends

The Temple

This is a west facing temple. Presiding Deity is housed in the sanctum in the form of Lingam and is facing west. The Sanctum is of circular shape.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 12 Kms from Thrissur, 13 Kms from Thrissur Bus Stand, 14 Kms from Thrissur Railway Station, 34 Kms from Chalakudy and 56 Kms from Cochin Airport. The Temple is situated near Mudikkode Bus Stop on Salem – Cochin highway.

Location

Thrikkariyoor Mahadeva Temple, Kothamangalam, Kerala

Thrikkariyoor Mahadeva Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Kothamangalam Town in Ernakulam District in Kerala, India. The Temple is situated on the banks of Kothamangalam River. This Temple is considered as one of the 108 Shiva Temples created by Lord Parasurama. It is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage centres in Kerala.

Legends

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/04/thrikkariyoor-mahadeva-temple-kothamangalam-legends.html

History

Thrikkariyoor is also known as Karuvoor or Karaorai in ancient times. It is believed to be the headquarters of ancient Chera dynasty. It is believed that Aryan Brahmins were settled here in Kothamangalam in the 1^st century AD. Heavy commercial activity happened between Pandyan Kingdom and Muzris in the ancient times. The royal route of Madura – Alwaye passes through Kothamangalam. The place was abandoned due to Pandyan invasion in 8^th Century CE.

The Temple

This Temple is facing towards east and covers an area of about 4 acres. The Temple has entrance towers in the eastern and western side. Anakottil (Elephant Camp) and Flag mast can be seen immediately after the eastern entrance. The flag mast is made of teak and covered with copper. Balikkal Mandapam can be seen next to flag staff. The ceiling of Balikkal Pura have beautiful carvings of Ashtadikpalakas and Lord Brahma.

There is a large pond situated in front of the eastern entrance. The pond having entrance house it known as Eshwara Seva Palace. The Sanctum is two tiered and rectangular in shape. This is one of the largest rectangular Sanctum (Srikovil) in Kerala. It is adorned with beautiful frescoes and wooden sculptures. There are shrines for Ganapathy, Vanadurga, Saptamatrikas, Ayyappan, and Yakshi in the temple premises.

There is a Devi temple (Padinjattu Kavu Devi Temple), situated on the opposite side of the western entrance. The roof of the sanctum housing the deity is left open to sky. This Temple is also facing towards east. Thrikkariyoor Temple and Kothamangalam Cheria Palli is connected by a strong belief of the people in the vicinity. The church festivities would not commence until the para and lantern from Thrikkariyoor temple reach the church.

Contact

Thrikkariyoor Mahadeva Temple,

Thrikkariyoor, Ernakulam,

Kerala – 682 011

Phone: +91 485 282 8746

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 3.5 Kms from Kothamangalam Bus Stand, 4 Kms from Kothamangalam, 17 Kms from Perumbavoor, 30 Kms from Cochin Airport, 32 Kms from Aluva Railway Station, 48 Kms from Ernakulam and 53 Kms from Cochin. The Temple is situated on Aluva to Munnar Route.

Location

Uma Maheswara Temple, Yaganti – The Temple Complex

This temple is situated in Yerramala hills surrounded by natural scenic beauty. This temple is facing towards east with five tiered rajagopuram. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala, maha mandapa and mukha mandapa. The sanctum enshrines an image of Arthanareeswara (Lord Shiva & Mother Parvathy in one form) carved from a monolith. This is probably the only place where Lord Shiva is worshipped in an idol form instead of Shiva Linga. The pillars of the temple are carved with deities from Hindu pantheon and scenes from puranas & epics.

Yaganti Nandi:

There is a Nandi idol opposite to the sanctum. It is said that the Nandi is growing its size continuously. The locals say that the idol was initially much smaller than its existing size. As per geological experts, the composition of the rock from which the idol was made has a tendency to enlarge by nature, on its own. As per the Archaeological Survey of India, the rock grows at the rate of 1 inch per 20 years (10 mm per 8 years). The temple authorities had already removed one pillar as the size of the Nandi has increased. As per Potuluri Veera Brahmendra Swamy, the Yaganti Nandi will come alive and shout when Kali Yuga ends.

Pushkarini:

There is a small pond in the temple premises. It is said that the water flows into this Pushkarini from the bottom of the hill through the mouth of a Nandi. The water, as it comes from the mountains, is fresh and sweet. The water is fresh and sweet, as it comes from the hills. No one knows how the water flows into Pushkarini in all the seasons. Devotees are supposed to take dip in the Pushkarni before visiting the temple.

Akasha Deepam:

The Akasha Deepam is a temple lamp placed on top of a rock structure behind the temple. The temple priest used to lit lamp using 4 litres of oil and 2-meter-thick wick on daily basis. The lamp burns from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm in an open air on the top of the hill.

Other Shrines:

There are shrines for Veerabhadra, Viswanatha and Ganesha in the temple premises. There is no Navagraha shrine in the temple premises.

Yaganti Caves:

There are several natural caves located on the hillock of Yerramala. These caves acted as residence for lot of saints including the great Telugu saint and astrologer Sri Potuluri Veera Brahmam.

Most notable caves are listed below;

Agastya Cave:

This cave is believed to be the place where Agastya performed penance on Lord Shiva. The cave can be reached after climbing 120 steps. There is a Shiva Linga at the top in the Agastya Cave. There is also a shrine for Goddess Parvati in this temple.

Venkateswara Cave:

This cave enshrines a damaged idol of Venkateshwara. It is believed that the idol was created by Sage Agasthya but could not be installed because the idol is damaged near the foot. This idol is considered much older than the idol at Tirumala. Devotees frequent this cave on Saturdays. Sri Potuluri Veera Brahmendra Swami tells us that this location can be an alternative to Tirupati in his Kala Gynanam.

Veera Brahmam Cave:

This cave is the place where the saint Sri Potuluri Veera Brahmendra Swamy wrote his Kala Gnanam (prophecy). The cave can be reached after climbing 60 steps. The height of the cave is very low, and one needs to bend half over to enter it.

Uma Maheswara Temple, Yaganti – Legends

Uma Mahesvara:

As per legend, Sage Agastya desired to build a temple for Lord Venkateshwara on this site. The sage was upset over this and performed a penance for Shiva. When Shiva appeared, he said the place suits Shiva better as it resembles Kailash. Agastya then requested Shiva to give the devotees a Parvathi Goddess as Lord Uma Maheswara in a single stone, which Shiva obliged. He made an idol but could not able to install as the toe nail of the idol was broken.

The sage was heartbroken and decided to perform penance on Lord Shiva to seek an explanation of the incident. Lord Shiva appeared before Sage Agastya and informed him that this place suited him more than Lord Vishnu as the place resembles Kailasha. Sage Agastya then requested Lord Shiva to reside in this place in Arthanareeswara form as Uma Mahesvara. This is probably the only place where Lord Shiva is worshipped in an idol form instead of Shiva Linga.

Yaganti Nandi:

Crows do not fly in Yaganti:

As per legend, when Sage Agastya was performing penance here, the crows disturbed him by their cawing. Irritated by their frequent cawing, he cursed that the crows cannot enter the place. As the crow is the Vahana for Lord Shani, it is believed that Lord Shani cannot enter this place. Thus, crows cannot be seen in this temple from time immemorial.

Yaganti:

As per legend, Chitteppa, an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva had worshipped Lord Shiva here. Pleased with his worship, Lord Shiva appeared before him as a tiger. But the devotee understood that the tiger is none other than Lord Shiva himself and shouted Neganti Shivanu ne kanti (means I saw Shiva I saw) and danced with joy. Thus, the place came to be called as Neganti and got corrupted to Yaganti. There is a cave called Chitteppa nearby.

Uma Maheswara Temple, Yaganti, Andhra Pradesh

Uma Maheswara Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Yaganti in Banaganapalli Mandal in Kurnool District in Andhra Pradesh, India. This temple is situated in Yerramala hills surrounded by natural scenic beauty. The temple complex is protected as monuments of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

Legends

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/04/uma-maheswara-temple-yaganti-legends.html

History

This temple was constructed by King Harihara Bukka Raya of the Sangama Dynasty of the Vijayanagara Empire in 15^th century CE. The temple had been constructed as per the Vaishnava traditions. It is said that saint Sri Potuluri Veera Brahmendra Swamy stayed in this place for some time and wrote his Kala Gnanam (prophecy).

The Temple Complex

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/04/uma-maheswara-temple-yaganti-temple-complex.html

Festivals

Maha Shivaratri is the most famous festival celebrated here with much fanfare.

Connectivity

The temple complex is located at about 4 Kms from Patapadu, 10 Kms from Banaganapalli Bus Stand, 11 Kms from Banaganapalli, 15 Kms from Banaganapalli Railway Station, 15 Kms from Rangapuram, 48 Kms from Nandyala, 53 Kms from Peapully, 78 Kms from Ahobilam, 84 Kms from Kurnool and 284 Kms from Hyderabad Airport. The temple is situated at about 4 Kms from Patapadu on the Banaganapalli to Peapully route. Regular buses are available from Banaganapalli, Nandyala, Ahobilam, Peapully and Kurnool to Yaganti.

Location

Chintala Venkataramana Temple, Tadipatri – The Temple

This temple is facing towards east with five tiered rajagopuram. The temple measures 225 feet in length and 135 feet in width. Dhwaja Sthamba, Balipeedam and Garuda shrine can be seen immediately after the rajagopuram. The Garuda shrine is designed in the form of a stone chariot with rotating granite wheels. It is smaller in size when compared to the famous stone chariot found in the Vitthala Temple of Hampi.

The temple consists of sanctum, ardha mandapa with entrance porches on either side and mukha mandapa. The mukha mandapa is supported by forty pillars in the Vijayanagar style. There is an octagonal shaped flower on the roof of the mukha mandapa. The outer walls of the ardha mandapa and the sanctum are carved with beautiful reliefs depicting the incidents from Ramayana & Mahabharata and various incarnations of Lord Vishnu.

The sanctum enshrines an image of the presiding deity Chintala Tiruvengala Natha Swamy / Chinthala Venkateswara Swamy. The idol is about 10 feet tall. He is depicted in a standing posture holding the conch (Sankha) and discus (Chakra) in the upper hands. The lower right hand is in abhaya hasta (reassuring devotees) and the lower left hand is in kati hasta (resting on the waist).

On Mukkoti Ekadasi day, the sun rays touch the feet of the presiding deity for 3 days continuously ( Ekadasi, Dwadasi, Trayodasi), which happens once in a year. The vimana over the sanctum is of two tiers. Mother is called as Anandhavalli Thayar. She is housed in a separate east facing shrine. Her shrine is situated on the left side of the sanctum. It is unusual to have the goddess shrine on the left side.

There is a sub shrine for Chakra to the south of the mukha mandapa. The shrine is currently empty. There is a shrine for Chenna Kesava in the northern prakara of the temple. There are shrines for Anjaneya, Sita Rama, Padmavathi, Lakshminarayana, Varaha and Ramanuja in the temple premises.

There is a Thulabharam pillar of Vijayanagara era can be seen in the temple premises. There is a secret underground passage from this temple to Gooty Fort. The entrance of the secret passage has been sealed by the ASI. The earliest inscription can be dated to 1551 CE recording gifts made to the temple. Other inscriptions in the temple are dated 16^th and 17^th centuries CE.

Chintala Venkataramana Temple, Tadipatri, Andhra Pradesh

Chintala Venkataramana Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in Tadipatri Town in Anantapur District in Andhra Pradesh, India. The temple is originally called as Chintala Tiruvengala Natha Swamy Temple. It is also called as Chintalarayaswamy Temple. The temple is considered one of the finest examples of Vijayanagara architecture. The temple is situated on the bank of the Penna River. The temple is protected as monuments of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

Legends

Chinthala Venkateswara Swamy:

As per legend, Tadipatri was once a forest of tamarind (Chintha Chettu) trees. One day, the villagers heard a loud noise from a Tamarind Tree and they were surprised to find a Vishnu idol lying inside the broken tree. Meanwhile Lord Vishnu appeared in the dreams of Pemmasani Timmanayudu II, local chieftain and instructed him to build the temple for the Idol lying inside the tree hole. He built the temple as instructed. As the idol was found in the Tamarind Tree (Chintha Chettu), Lord Vishnu came to be called as Chintala Tiruvengala Natha Swamy and later got changed to Chinthala Venkateswara Swamy.

Tadipatri:

It is said that the place was once grove of palm (Tadi) trees. Hence, the place came to be called as Tadipatri (Tadi means Palm and Patri means Leaf).

History

This temple is believed to have been built in 16th CE century by Pemmasani Timmanayudu II, son of Pemmasani Ramalinga Nayudu I, a chieftain of Vijayanagar Kingdom. Pemmasani Timmanayudu II was a contemporary of Vira Narasimharaya and Krishnadevaraya. It is said that Lord Vishnu appeared in the dreams of Timmanayudu and ordered him to construct a temple for him at Tadipatri. The temple was built during the same time as the Vittala Temple of Hampi in a similar manner. The initial structure may belong to Saluva dynasty, but the entrance towers belongs to the Tuluva dynasty. An earthquake had destroyed the main gopuram but has been rebuilt recently.

The Temple

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/04/chintala-venkataramana-temple-tadipatri.html

Temple Opening Time

The temple remains open from 06.00 AM to 01.00 PM and 04.00 PM to 08.00 PM.

Festivals

Annual Brahmotsavam is celebrated during the month of October. It starts on Aswayuja Suddha Ashtami (Durgashtami) and goes till Bahula Thadiya. Diwali and Ramanavami are the other festivals celebrated here with much fanfare.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 1 Km from Bugga Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple, 1 Km from Tadipatri Bus Stand, 4 Kms from Tadipatri Railway Station, 52 Kms from Gooty, 57 Kms from Anantapur, 106 Kms from Kadapa, 246 Kms from Tirupati, 247 Kms from Bengaluru Airport and 269 Kms from Bengaluru. Tadipatri is situated on Kadapa to Gooty route. Regular trains are available from Tirupati to Tadipatri. Direct buses are available from Tirupati to Anantapur. Tadipatri is well connected to Anantapur by buses.

Location

Mahadeva Temple, Ardoni, Madhya Pradesh

Mahadeva Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located at Ardoni Village in Morena Tehsil in Morena District in Madhya Pradesh, India. The temple is situated close to Bateshwar Group of Temples, Padhawali. The Temple is one of the state protected monuments in Madhya Pradesh declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

History

The temple is believed to be built in 11^th century CE by Kachchhapaghata rulers.

The Temple

The temple is facing towards east. The temple consisted of sanctum and a mandapa. Now only the mandapa survived the ravages of time and destruction. The mandapa is open on two sides. The pillars and the walls of the temple are decorated with carvings of deities, floral motifs and geometrical patterns. An image of Ganesha and figures of damsels applying makeup are the notable carvings in this temple.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 4 Kms from Padhavali, 5 Kms from Bateshwar Group of Temples, 16 Kms from Malanpur, 18 Kms from Nurabad Railway Station, 19 Kms from Nurabad, 24 Kms from Morena Railway Station, 24 Kms from Morena, 26 Kms from Morena Bus Stand, 28 Kms from Gwalior Airport and 37 Kms from Gwalior. The temple is situated on Morena to Malanpur route via Padhavali.

Location

Harsiddhi Devi Temple, Beejanagari, Madhya Pradesh

Harsiddhi Devi Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to goddess Durga located at Beejanagari Village in Badod Tehsil in Agar Malwa District in Madhya Pradesh, India. The temple is one of the state protected monuments in Madhya Pradesh declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

Legends

As per legend, Vijay Singh, a relative of Emperor Vikramaditya of Ujjain & Jagirdar of this region, performed penance here for 12 years. Pleased with his penance, Mother Harsiddhi Devi assured him that she would take this place as her abode for the well beings of the people of his region.

History

The temple is believed to be built in 9^th century CE but the temple had been completely rebuilt in recent times.

The Temple

The temple consisted of sanctum and mandapa. The temple might have been built in bhumija style of architecture based on the remains of the temple. Sculptures, architectural fragments and inscriptions can be found scattered around the temple premises. These include images of Narasimha, Vaman, Sheshashayi Vishnu, Brahma, Laxmi Narayan, Ganpati and Uma Maheshwara. Another image of Lord Shiva found in this temple has been kept in the District Archaeological Museum.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 16 Kms from Badod, 17 Kms from Badod Bus Stand, 23 Kms from Agar, 25 Kms from Susner, 47 Kms from Vikramgarh Alote Railway Station, 89 Kms from Ujjain, 145 Kms from Indore and 147 Kms from Indore Airport. The temple is situated on Badod to Susner route.

Location

Harsiddhi Devi Temple, Rangir, Madhya Pradesh

Harsiddhi Devi Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to goddess Durga located at Rangir Village in Rehli Tehsil in Sagar District in Madhya Pradesh, India. The temple is situated on the banks of Dehan river inside the dense forests. The temple might have been built by the Marathas in 18^th century CE.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards south and follows a mixture of Hindu and Mughal architectural style. The temple is enclosed with in a compound wall. The sanctum is square on plan. There is a covered circumbulatory path around the sanctum. There is a covered path way attached to the compound wall in the inner courtyard.

The sanctum is crowned with dome style shikara with four small shrines on its four sides. The sanctum enshrines an image of Harsiddhi Devi. She is two armed. It is said that she changes her form thrice every day, as a child at dawn, a young girl at mid-day and an old women in the evening. There is a forest department rest house located near to the temple.

Festivals

Fairs in honour of Harsiddhi Devi are held in the months of Asvina and Chaitra.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 12 Kms from Pipariya Narsingh, 19 Kms from Rehli, 35 Kms from Deori, 45 Kms from Sagar, 136 Kms from Jabalpur, 147 Kms from Jabalpur Airport, 155 Kms from Vidisha and 203 Kms from Bhopal. The temple is situated at about 12 Kms from Pipariya Narsingh on Sagar to Jabalpur route.

Location

Baijnath Mahadev Temple, Badnawar, Madhya Pradesh

Baijnath Mahadev Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located at Badnawar Town in Badnawar Tehsil in Dhar District in Madhya Pradesh, India. The Temple is one of the state protected monuments in Madhya Pradesh declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

History

The temple is believed to be built in 12^th century CE by the Paramara rulers.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards west and stands over a raised platform. The temple is saptaratha on plan. The temple consists of sanctum and antrala. It might have had a mandapa in the front during ancient times. The manḍapa is lost completely except few pillars on the temple premises. The antrala is supported by two pillars and two pilasters.

The sanctum enshrines the presiding deity, Baijnath Mahadev, in the form of Shiva Linga within a circular yonipitha. The shikara follows bhumija style of architecture. The antrala has a superstructure called sukhanasi. It looks like a shorter extension of the main tower. The exterior are decorated with images of Hindu deities, floral motifs and geometrical patterns.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 250 metres from Badnawar Bus Stand, 18 Kms from Barnagar Railway Station, 45 Kms from Ratlam, 52 Kms from Dhar, 67 Kms from Ujjain, 85 Kms from Indore Airport and 91 Kms from Indore. The temple is situated on Indore to Ratlam route.

Location

Meguti Jain Temple, Aihole – The Temple

The Temple is situated on the top of the Meguti Hill, surrounded by the Aihole fort. Meguti is a corruption of the word Megudi (means upper temple). This Temple is facing towards north. The Temple is built on a raised platform and can be accessed through flight of steps from the northern side. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala and a large pillared mukhamandapa.

The mukha mandapa and antrala are square in plan. The mukha mandapa is supported by twelve pillars and four pilasters. It has a flat roof with curved eaves. The antrala is divided into two chamber. There is a stone stair connects the lower chamber to the second elevated chamber. The upper chamber has a shrine and it might be dated to later period.

The sikhara over the upper shrine is now in ruins. It enshrines a badly damaged Jain image. The upper level offers a panoramic view of the Aihole fort and Aihole village below. The lower chamber is further connected to the sanctum. The sanctum consists of two concentric squares, the inner square being the sanctum, and the space between the outer square and inner square being the pradakshina patha (circumambulation path).

However, a later construction sealed the circumambulation passage, making it more suitable for storage. The sanctum enshrines a rudimentary carving of a Jain Thirthankara, Mahavira. He is depicted seated on a throne with lions at the base and makara heads at the sides. The remarkable icon of the Jain goddess Ambika, seated beneath a flowering tree, once enshrined in the antrala is now displayed in the Aihole Archaeological museum.

The niches on the exterior walls and friezes on porch parapet wall are now empty. The low parapet wall is decorated with friezes and kudus. The outer walls are raised on basement mouldings that rhythmically project and recess in accordance with the pilastered walls above. The mouldings around the foundation have carvings of Jaina motifs such as seated Jinas meditating.

The temple is not complete, as the niches and walls where carvings would be, are either cut but empty or left uncut and left raised. The hill is supposed to be the site of Aihole Fort, but except the walls, none of the structures survive today. There is a Buddhist Temple few steps below the Meguti temple.

Jyotirlinga Group of Temples, Aihole, Karnataka

Jyotirlinga Group of Temples are group of ancient Hindu temples, located on the banks of the Malaprabha river in the heart of Aihole, an historical town, in Bagalkot District in Karnataka, India. It is a large cluster of over sixteen medieval Hindu temples and monuments. The temple is located to the east of the Durga Temple complex.

History

The temples in this group were believed to be built by the Chalukyas and Rashtrakutas from 8^th century CE to 12^th century CE. These temples are protected as monuments of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

The Group of Temples

The Jyotirlinga Group of temples contains sixteen Hindu temples and a large stepwell. Most of these temples are in ruined condition.

Main Temple:

This temple is facing towards east and stands over a raised platform. The temple consists of sanctum, sabha mandapa and mukha mandapa. The mukha mandapa is supported by eight pillars. Nandi is placed on the space formed between the four central pillars in the mukha mandapa, facing towards the sanctum. The mukha mandapa is accessed through flight of four steps on the southern side. The sabha mandapa is divided by two rows of pillars into a central nave and two side aisles. Sculptures of Ganesha, Saptamatrikas and lion can be seen in the sabha mandapa.

Temple No 2:

This temple is facing towards north. The temple consists of mukha mandapa, antrala and sanctum. The parapet walls with kakasanas run across the four sides of the mukha mandapa. The mukha mandapa is supported by sixteen pillars. The mukha mandapa can be accessed from the north, east and west. The roof the antrala is lost completely. The lintel of the sanctum doorway has the image of Gajalakshmi in its dedicatory block. The sanctum is square in plan. It enshrines a Shiva Linga. The roof and all the walls of the sanctum are completely lost.

Temple No 3:

This temple is facing towards east. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala, sabha mandapa and mukha mandapa. The mukha mandapa is lost completely. The sabha mandapa can be accessed through flight of two newly built steps. The lintel of the entrance door of the sabha mandapa has the image of Gajalakshmi. The sabha mandapa is supported by four central pillars, two pillars of the antrala, two pilasters of the entrance door and eight pilasters of the sides, which are now destroyed. The four decorative central pillars are placed on an elevated platform. The first pillar on the left has a seven-line kannada inscription. An image of Gajalakshmi can be seen on the lintel of the sanctum doorway. The sanctum is square on plan. The shikara over the sanctum is of stepped pyramidal style but it is partially broken now.

Other Temples:

Most of the temples are in ruined condition, except for the Nandi mandapas and standing pillars of the long-lost mandapa. Most of the temples are built by the early Chalukyas and Rashtrakuta dynasties. There are temples of Lord Vishnu (11^th century CE Kalyana Chalukya style), Sangamanatha (12^th century CE), Parasurama, Ramalinga and Brahma in the temples group. Sculptures of Ganesha, Karthikeya, Parvati and Ardhanarishvara (half Shiva, half Parvati) can be found in the premises.

Connectivity

The temple complex is located at about 300 metres from Aihole Bus Stand. Aihole is located at about 13 Kms from Pattadakal, 30 Kms from Badami Railway Station, 33 Kms from Bagalkot Junction Railway Station, 34 Kms from Badami, 38 Kms from Bagalkot, 88 Kms from Gadag, 136 Kms from Hubballi Airport, 164 Kms from Belgaum Airport, 277 Kms from Goa and 446 Kms from Bengaluru. Aihole is situated on Pattadakal to Amingad route.

Location

Mallikarjuna Group of Temples, Aihole, Karnataka

Mallikarjuna Group of Temples are group of ancient Hindu temples, located on the banks of the Malaprabha river in the heart of Aihole, an historical town, in Bagalkot District in Karnataka, India. The group of temples are located on the way to Meguti Jain Temple immediately after the Jyotirlinga Group of Temples.

History

The Temple Complex

The Temple complex consists of five temples. The main temple and three temples on its north & north east side are facing towards east and the fifth temple faces towards north.

Main Temple:

The main temple is facing towards east and stands over a raised platform. It consists of sanctum, sabha mandapa and mukha mandapa. The mukha mandapa can be accessed through flight of four steps. The mukha mandapa is supported by four square shaped pillars. The pillars are carved with lotus medallions and human figures. The doorway of the sabha mandapa is intricately carved. The base of the doorjamb are carved with amorous couples and Nagas.

The lintel of the entrance door of the sabha mandapa has the image of Garuda. An image of Ganesha can be seen above it. Nandi can be found in the middle of the sabha mandapa facing towards the sanctum. The sabha mandapa is supported by two rows of pillars and pilasters. The pillars are intricately carved with Narasimha, Shiva, Ganesha, a female dancer accompanied with two female musicians with their instruments, mithuna figures, lotuses etc.

The base of the doorjamb of the sanctum are carved with river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna with their attendants. The dedicatory block on the lintel of the sanctum door has a flying Garuda holding Nagas. The shikara over the sanctum follows both pyramidal and curvilinear style. A Sapta Matrikas slab can be seen outside the main temple. There is a large stepwell near the main temple.

Kare Gudi:

This temple is similar in plan to the Temple No 2 in Jyotirlinga Group of Temples. The temple stands over a raised platform and can be accessed through flight of seven steps. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala and mukha mandapa. The mukha mandapa is supported by sixteen pillars. The mukha mandapa is enclosed by parapet walls with kakasanas on the interior on all sides. The four central pillars are located in a slightly elevated platform. The dedicatory block on the lintel of the sanctum door has a sculpture of Gaja Lakshmi. Dvarapalas can be seen guarding the sanctum. The shikara over the sanctum follows stepped pyramidal style.

Bille Gudi:

This temple is situated on the left side of the Kare Gudi. The temple consisted of sanctum, antrala, sabha mandapa and mukha mandapa. The mukha mandapa is lost completely. The sabha mandapa is supported by four pilasters of the side walls. There is no shikara over the shrine.

Other shrines and ruins:

The smaller shrines in this complex were likely built during the Late Chalukya period. There is a gateway in the center of the temple complex. There are also several large pillars scattered around the complex.

Connectivity

The temple complex is located at about 500 metres from Aihole Bus Stand. Aihole is located at about 13 Kms from Pattadakal, 30 Kms from Badami Railway Station, 33 Kms from Bagalkot Junction Railway Station, 34 Kms from Badami, 38 Kms from Bagalkot, 88 Kms from Gadag, 136 Kms from Hubballi Airport, 164 Kms from Belgaum Airport, 277 Kms from Goa and 446 Kms from Bengaluru. Aihole is situated on Pattadakal to Amingad route.

Location

Buddhist Temple, Aihole, Karnataka

Buddhist Temple is an ancient Buddhist monument, located on the banks of the Malaprabha river in Aihole, an historical town, in Bagalkot District in Karnataka, India. This Temple is considered as the only Buddhist Monument in Aihole. This Buddhist Temple (Chaitya and Vihara) is situated on the slope of the Meguti Hill just below the hilltop and Meguti Hill Jain Temple. Meguti hill is situated to the south east of the Aihole Town. The views of the whole Malaprabha valley as far as Pattadakal can be seen from the hill top.

History

The Temple is believed to be built in 6^th century CE by Badami Chalukyas. This temple is protected as monuments of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

The Temple

This Buddhist Temple (Chaitya and Vihara) is situated on the slope of the Meguti Hill. It is partly rock-cut two-storey structure. It is partly excavated into the surrounding rock and the porch is structural. The porches at the two levels are open and consists of four-square shaped pillars and two pilasters on two side walls.

The porch is followed by a chamber carved into the cliff face. The doorway to the lower level chamber is intricately carved. The central bay on the upper level has a Buddha relief showing him seated under a parasol. His right hand shows vitarka mudra and the left hand shows dhyana mudra. He is seated on a lotus, with a prabha behind his head. The chambers are empty now.

There is a 3-foot-tall headless statue of Buddha in front of the temple. It might have been housed in the chamber in ancient time. There is an inscription on the pillar of the lower storey that mentions about one Bhikshu Mahendra, a disciple of Ananda Stavira (Ananda Thera) belonging to the Pindavadi school of Buddhism. There is a small cave near the temple having inscriptions in Kannada.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 600 meters from Aihole Bus Stand. The Temple can be accessed through flight of steps from a lane running besides the Mallikarjuna Temple Complex. Aihole is located at about 13 Kms from Pattadakal, 30 Kms from Badami Railway Station, 33 Kms from Bagalkot Junction Railway Station, 34 Kms from Badami, 38 Kms from Bagalkot, 88 Kms from Gadag, 136 Kms from Hubballi Airport, 164 Kms from Belgaum Airport, 277 Kms from Goa and 446 Kms from Bengaluru. Aihole is situated on Pattadakal to Amingad route.

Location

Meguti Jain Temple, Aihole, Karnataka

Meguti Jain Temple is a Jain Temple dedicated to Jain Tirthankara Mahavira, located on the banks of the Malaprabha river in Aihole, an historical town, in Bagalkot District in Karnataka, India. The Temple is situated on the top of the Meguti Hill, surrounded by the Aihole fort. This temple is protected as monuments of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

History

The Temple was constructed by Ravikeerti in 634 CE during the reign of Chalukyan Emperor Pulikesi II. Ravikeerti was a commander, minister and accomplished poet in the court of Chalukyan Emperor Pulikesi II. This Temple is the only dated monument in Aihole. The temple is famous for its Aihole Prashasti inscription. This inscription is engraved on the eastern wall of the shrine. It is written in Sanskrit language and old Kannada script.

It is dated to Saka 556 (634 CE). It is a poem in a variety of Sanskrit meter by Ravikeerti. This inscription has initial verses dedicated to Lord Jina’s eulogy. The inscription provides the genealogy of Chalukyan dynasty starting from Jayasimha, Ranaraga, Kirtivarman, Pulikesi I and Pulikesi II. It further gives an account of the exploits of his royal patron. Ravikeerti compared himself with Kalidasa and Bharavi in poetic skills and fame in the inscription.

The Temple

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/04/meguti-jain-temple-aihole-temple.html

Connectivity

The temple complex is located at about 750 meters from Aihole Bus Stand. The Temple can be accessed through flight of steps from a lane running besides the Mallikarjuna Temple Complex. Aihole is located at about 13 Kms from Pattadakal, 30 Kms from Badami Railway Station, 33 Kms from Bagalkot Junction Railway Station, 34 Kms from Badami, 38 Kms from Bagalkot, 88 Kms from Gadag, 136 Kms from Hubballi Airport, 164 Kms from Belgaum Airport, 277 Kms from Goa and 446 Kms from Bengaluru. Aihole is situated on Pattadakal to Amingad route.

Location

Badiger Gudi Kalyani, Aihole, Karnataka

Badiger Gudi Kalyani is an ancient stepwell, located on the banks of the Malaprabha river in the heart of Aihole, an historical town, in Bagalkot District in Karnataka, India. The stepwell is believed to have been constructed in 10^th century CE. The stepwell is situated to the southwest of Durga Temple.

The Stepwell

This Stepwell is larger than the well near Durga Temple. It is situated opposite to the Badiger Gudi. The walls of the stepwell are carved with ancient sculptures. This stepwell was built to ensure adequate water supply to the temples in the complex. The water stains on the walls clearly indicate dipping water-table over time in the region.

Connectivity

The Stepwell is located at about 100 meters from Aihole Bus Stand. Aihole is located at about 13 Kms from Pattadakal, 30 Kms from Badami Railway Station, 33 Kms from Bagalkot Junction Railway Station, 34 Kms from Badami, 38 Kms from Bagalkot, 88 Kms from Gadag, 136 Kms from Hubballi Airport, 164 Kms from Belgaum Airport, 277 Kms from Goa and 446 Kms from Bengaluru. Aihole is situated on Pattadakal to Amingad route.

Location

Badigar Gudi, Aihole, Karnataka

Badigar Gudi is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Surya, located on the banks of the Malaprabha river in the heart of Aihole, an historical town, in Bagalkot District in Karnataka, India. The Temple is situated to the southwest of Durga Temple.

Legends

The Temple is also called as Baidger Gudi (Carpenter’s Temple). It is said that a carpenter’s family lived in this temple before ASI took over. Hence, the temple came to be called as Badiger Gudi.

History

The Temple is believed to be built in 9^th century CE by Badami Chalukyas. This temple is protected as monuments of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

The Temple

This Temple is facing towards east. The Temple consists of sanctum, ranga mandapa and open mukha mandapa. The sanctum has a pyramidal tower with a squat and shrinking discrete squares-topped design with a large cubical sukanasa containing an image of Surya. There is an image of Dakshabrahma in the temple. Most of the sculptures and reliefs in this temple has been damaged and eroded.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 100 meters from Aihole Bus Stand. Aihole is located at about 13 Kms from Pattadakal, 30 Kms from Badami Railway Station, 33 Kms from Bagalkot Junction Railway Station, 34 Kms from Badami, 38 Kms from Bagalkot, 88 Kms from Gadag, 136 Kms from Hubballi Airport, 164 Kms from Belgaum Airport, 277 Kms from Goa and 446 Kms from Bengaluru. Aihole is situated on Pattadakal to Amingad route.

Location

Ambigergudi Temple Complex, Aihole, Karnataka

Ambigergudi Temple Complex are group of three Hindu Temples located on the banks of the Malaprabha river in the heart of Aihole, an historical town, in Bagalkot District in Karnataka, India. This temple complex is one of the archaeologically significant Aihole complexes situated immediately west of the Durga temple complex, near its entrance ticket office. This temple is protected as monuments of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

Legends

As the Ambiger community (fisherman) stayed near this place, the temple came to be called as Ambigergudi.

History

The Temple No 1 and Temple No 2 were probably built between 6^th and 8^th century CE by Chalukyas. The excavations in the temple complex yielded redwares dated to 1^st and 3^rd century CE and remains of an ancient brick temple. The brick temple might have been probably replaced with stone structure by Chalukyas. The Temple No 3 was built in 11^th century CE by Late Chalukyas.

The Temple Complex

The Temple Complex consists of three monuments, all aligned to the east-west axis.

Temple No 1:

This Temple is facing towards west facing the middle shrine. It is square in plan and lacks a tower.

Temple No 2:

This temple is situated between Temple No 1 and Temple No 3. This temple is facing towards east and largest of the three shrines found in this complex. It has open verandah design with sloping slaps for roof cover. The Sanctum houses a broken image of Lord Surya (Sun god) whose crown is visible.

Temple No 3:

This temple is facing towards east. The temple consists of Sanctum, Antrala and Maha Mandapa. The temple can be accessed from the northern and southern entrance of Maha Mandapa. There is a carving of lotus on the ceiling of the Mandapa. There is no image in the sanctum. There is a shikara over the sanctum and follows dravida design. The face, nose and limbs of the sculptures and carvings in the temple are defaced during Islamic invasions.

Connectivity

The temple complex is located at about 100 meters from Aihole Bus Stand. Aihole is located at about 13 Kms from Pattadakal, 30 Kms from Badami Railway Station, 33 Kms from Bagalkot Junction Railway Station, 34 Kms from Badami, 38 Kms from Bagalkot, 88 Kms from Gadag, 136 Kms from Hubballi Airport, 164 Kms from Belgaum Airport, 277 Kms from Goa and 446 Kms from Bengaluru. Aihole is situated on Pattadakal to Amingad route.

Location

Kadwaya Temples – The Temples

There are about fifteen sandstone temples in Kadwaya. All the temples are under the protection of ASI. Out of the fifteen temples, the Garhi Shiva temple was dated to 9^th century CE, twelve temples were dated to the 10^th century CE and the Toteshvara Mahadeva & Marghatia temples dated to the 11^th century CE. The temples are clustered in eight groups around the monastery and one temple located near the monastery. Ten of the fifteen temples were affiliated to the Mattamayura sect of Shaivism.

The temples are said to have been constructed in three phases. The temples in the earliest phase are simple and plain in terms of sculptural art & constructional style. The temples in the second phase shows advancement in the architectural style and sculptural art on the exterior walls of the sanctum. The temples in the third phase shows advancement in sculptural art & architectural style and increase in the height of the temple.

Chandla Temple:

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/chandla-temple-kadwaya-madhya-pradesh.html

Ekla Temple:

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/ekla-temple-kadwaya-madhya-pradesh.html

Garhi Temple:

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/garhi-temple-kadwaya-madhya-pradesh.html

Marghatia Temple:

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/marghatia-temple-kadwaya-madhya-pradesh.html

Akhati Group of Temples:

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/akhati-group-of-temples-kadwaya-madhya-pradesh.html

Bag Group of Temples:

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/bag-group-of-temples-kadwaya-madhya-pradesh.html

Khirna Group of Temples:

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/khirna-group-of-temples-kadwaya-madhya-pradesh.html

Murayata Group of Temples:

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/murayata-group-of-temples-kadwaya-madhya-pradesh.html

Pachhali Marghat Group of Temples:

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/pachhali-marghat-group-of-temples-kadwaya-madhya-pradesh.html

Chandla Matha:

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/chandla-matha-kadwaya-madhya-pradesh.html

Pachhali Marghat Group of Temples, Kadwaya, Madhya Pradesh

Pachhali Marghat Group of Temples are group of Hindu Temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, located in Kadwaya Village in Isagarh Tehsil in Ashok Nagar District in Madhya Pradesh, India. The Kadwaya village is famous for its temples, sculptures and structures such as monasteries, ruined mosque, wells, tanks and baodi.

History

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/kadwaya-temples-history.html

The Group of Temples

The Pachhali Marghat Group of Temples consists of two temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. All these temples lost their respective shikaras.

Temple A:

This temple is the largest in the group and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple is facing towards west and stands over a raised platform. The temple can be accessed through flight of six steps. The temple is pancharatha on plan. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala and mukha mandapa. The mukha mandapa is supported by two pillars and two pilasters. Though the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the sanctum enshrines a recently installed Shiva Linga.

The door jamb of the sanctum is profusely carved and embellished with five bands of decorations. The lintel is decorated with Vishnu on his mount Garuda at the central position and Lord Brahma & Lord Shiva at the terminal projections. Navagrahas and Matrikas can be seen in between them. The architrave is carved with images of Dashavataras. The river goddesses, Ganga and Yamuna with their respective mounts can be seen at the base of the doorjambs.

The exterior wall is decorated with two bands of images. The bhadra niches has images of Bhoovaraha on the north, Narasimha on the south and the eastern niche is empty. The kapili niches has images of Brahma on the south and Vamana on the north. The pratirathas of the exterior walls are adorned with figures like wrestlers and nayikas.

Temple B:

This temple is facing towards west and situated to the north west of Temple A. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and stands over a raised platform. The temple can be accessed through flight of six steps. The temple consists of sanctum and mukha mandapa. The mukha mandapa is supported by two pillars and two pilasters. The door jamb of the sanctum is profusely carved and embellished with five bands of decorations. The lintel is decorated with Uma Mahesvara at the central position and Brahma with his consort Savitri & Lakshmi Narayana at the terminal projections.

Navagrahas and Vidyadharas can be seen in between them. The architrave is carved with images of Ekadasa Rudras. The river goddesses, Ganga and Yamuna with their respective mounts can be seen at the base of the doorjambs. The exterior wall is decorated with single band of images. The bhadra projection in two rows depicts Chamunda and Varuna on the north, Ganesha and Vighnesvari on the south, and Hariharahiranyagarbha on the east.

The image of Chamunda is depicted with a scorpion in her stomach. Hariharahiranyagarbha on the eastern niche is a very rare and unique image nowhere to be seen. This image is combination of Shiva, Vishnu, Brahma and Surya. He is depicted with three heads and eight hands. He holds gada (club), trisula (trident) and snake. Images of swan, bull and garuda is shown at the base.

Connectivity

Kadwaya is located at about 18 Kms from Isagarh, 28 Kms from Khaniadhana, 51 Kms from Chanderi, 53 Kms from Ashok Nagar Railway Station, 54 Kms from Ashoknagar, 112 Kms from Jhansi, 245 Kms from Bhopal and 251 Kms from Bhopal Airport. Kadwaya is situated on Khaniadhana to Isagarh route.

Location

Khirna Group of Temples, Kadwaya, Madhya Pradesh

Khirna Group of Temples are group of Hindu Temples dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Kadwaya Village in Isagarh Tehsil in Ashok Nagar District in Madhya Pradesh, India. The Kadwaya village is famous for its temples, sculptures and structures such as monasteries, ruined mosque, wells, tanks and baodi.

History

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/kadwaya-temples-history.html

The Group of Temples

The Khirna Group of Temples consists of two temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Temple A:

This temple is facing towards west and considered as the largest temple in the group. The temple is pancharatha on plan. The temple consisted of sanctum and mandapa. The mandapa is completely lost. The sanctum enshrines a Shiva Linga within a yonipitha. The door jamb of the sanctum is profusely carved and embellished with five bands of decorations. The lintel of the doorjamb has images of Shiva in seated posture at the central position and Brahma & Vishnu at the terminal projections. Navagrahas and Sapta Matrikas can be seen in the recesses.

The river goddesses Ganga & Yamuna with female attendants can be seen at the base of the doorjamb. The shikara over the sanctum follows nagara style. The amalaka of the shikhara is intact but the kalasha is missing. The exterior wall is decorated with two bands of images. The bhadra niches has images of Uma Maheshvara in the upper level & Nataraja in the lower row on the north, Uma Maheshvara in the upper level and eight armed Kartikeya in the lower level on the south and Brahma in seated posture in the upper level and Chamunda in dancing posture in the lower level on the east.

Lord Shiva with his consort Parvati, Lord Vishnu with his consort Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha with his consort Vighnesvari and Lord Brahma with his consort Savitri can be seen in the kapilis. Apsaras can be seen in the pratiratha projections in both rows and dikpalas in the lower level & Shaivite figures in the upper level can be seen in the karnas. The salilantaras has images of apsaras and vyalas in the upper and lower level.

Temple B:

This temple is facing towards west and situated to the left side of the Temple A. The temple is pancharatha on plan and triangabada on elevation. The temple stands over a low raised platform. The temple consists of sanctum and mukha mandapa. The mukha mandapa is supported by two pillars and two pilasters. The sanctum enshrines a Shiva Linga within a yonipitha. An image of goddess Parvati can be seen behind the Linga on the rear wall of the sanctum.

The ceiling of the sanctum is carved with a full-blown lotus encircled by a floral square border. The door jamb of the sanctum is profusely carved and embellished with five bands of decorations. The lintel of the doorjamb has images of Shiva at the central position and Brahma & Vishnu at the terminal projections. Navagrahas and Sapta Matrikas can be seen in the recesses. The architrave is carved with images of eleven Rudras. The river goddesses Ganga & Yamuna can be seen at the base of the doorjamb.

The shikara over the sanctum is lost completely. The external walls of vimana are decorated with niches adorning various images. The bhadra niches has images of Parvati on the north, Surya on the east and Ganesha on the south. Dikpalas can be seen in their respective position on the karna niches. The kapili niches has images of Nataraja in the north and Parvati in standing posture in the south.

Connectivity

Location

Ekla Temple, Kadwaya, Madhya Pradesh

Ekla Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Kadwaya Village in Isagarh Tehsil in Ashok Nagar District in Madhya Pradesh, India. The Kadwaya village is famous for its temples, sculptures and structures such as monasteries, ruined mosque, wells, tanks and baodi.

History

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/kadwaya-temples-history.html

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east and stands over a high raised platform. The temple can be accessed through a flight of steps. The temple is triratha on plan. The temple consisted of sanctum and mukha mandapa. The mukha mandapa is completely lost. Though, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the sanctum enshrines a Shiva Linga within a yonipitha at present. The interior walls of the sanctum is carved with images of Sheshashayi Vishnu and a mother feeding her child on its southern wall. An image of a lady carrying a child can be seen in the northern wall of the sanctum.

The ceiling of the sanctum is carved with a large lotus flower in relief having four circular rows of petals. The lintel is decorated with Lord Vishnu on his mount garuda at the central position and Brahma & Vishnu at the terminal projections. Navagrahas and Sapta Matrikas with Ganesha can be seen in the recesses. The architrave is carved with images of Ekadasa Rudras. The river goddesses Ganga & Yamuna with their respective mounts can be seen at the base of the doorjamb.

The shikara over the sanctum is completely lost. The exterior wall is decorated with single band of images. The lower jangha of pratirathas and karna ratha is carved with apsaras and dikpalas. The upper row is carved with mithunas. The salilantaras is carved with vyalas and apsaras. The south kapili is carved with the image of Brahma. The images of bhadra niches are missing. All the sides of the varandika have panels of drummers, dancers and musicians.

Connectivity

Location

Chandla Temple, Kadwaya, Madhya Pradesh

Chandla Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Kadwaya Village in Isagarh Tehsil in Ashok Nagar District in Madhya Pradesh, India. The Kadwaya village is famous for its temples, sculptures and structures such as monasteries, ruined mosque, wells, tanks and baodi.

History

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/kadwaya-temples-history.html

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east. The temple consists of sanctum and mukha mandapa. The mukha mandapa is supported by two pillars and two pilasters. The sanctum enshrines a Shiva Linga within a yonipitha. The doorjamb is plain with images of river goddesses Ganga & Yamuna at the base. The lintel has an image of Nataraja at the central position. The shikara over the sanctum is pyramidal in shape with two circular tiers on the top. The shukanasika has an image of Lord Shiva in seated posture. The external wall is decorated with images of Surya, Chamunda and Ganesha on three sides.

Connectivity

Location

Friday, February 11, 2022

Bag Group of Temples, Kadwaya, Madhya Pradesh

Bag Group of Temples, Kadwaya, Madhya Pradesh

Bag Group of Temples are group of Hindu Temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located in Kadwaya Village in Isagarh Tehsil in Ashok Nagar District in Madhya Pradesh, India. The Kadwaya village is famous for its temples, sculptures and structures such as monasteries, ruined mosque, wells, tanks and baodi.

History

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/kadwaya-temples-history.html

The Group of Temples

The Bag Group of Temples consists of two temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. All these temples lost their respective shikaras.

Temple No. 1:

This temple is the largest in the group and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple is facing towards west and stands over a raised platform. The temple can be accessed through flight of steps. The temple is pancharatha on plan and triangabada in elevation. The temple consists of sanctum and mukha mandapa. The mukha mandapa is supported by two pillars and two pilasters. The door jamb of the sanctum is profusely carved and embellished with five bands of decorations.

The lintel is decorated with Vishnu on his mount Garuda at the central position and Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva at the terminal projections. Navagrahas and Matrikas can be seen in between them. The architrave is carved with images of Dashavataras. The river goddesses, Ganga and Yamuna with their respective mounts can be seen at the base of the doorjambs.

The sanctum enshrines a pedestal with a broken prabhavali, feet of Vishnu, and flying Garuda. The exterior wall is decorated with single band of images. The bhadra niches has images of Vamana in the east, Bhoovaraha in the south and the image in the northern niche is lost. The kapili niches has images of Brahma in the north and Vishnu in the south.

Temple No. 2:

This temple is facing towards south and stands over a raised platform. The temple is pancharatha on plan and dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple can be accessed through flight of steps. The temple consisted of sanctum and mukha mandapa. The mukha mandapa and the shikara over the sanctum were lost completely.

The door jamb of the sanctum is profusely carved and embellished with five bands of decorations. The lintel is decorated with Vishnu in standing posture at the central position and Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva at the terminal projections. Navagrahas can be seen in between them. The river goddesses, Ganga and Yamuna with their respective mounts can be seen at the base of the doorjambs.

The exterior wall is decorated with single band of images. The bhadra niches has images of Nataraja on the north Natesha, Surya on the east and Lakshmi Narayana on the west. The kapili niches has images of Brahma on the east and Vishnu on the west. The varandika of the temple is decorated with musicians and dancers.

Connectivity

Location

Akhati Group of Temples, Kadwaya, Madhya Pradesh

Akhati Group of Temples are group of Hindu Temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located in Kadwaya Village in Isagarh Tehsil in Ashok Nagar District in Madhya Pradesh, India. The Kadwaya village is famous for its temples, sculptures and structures such as monasteries, ruined mosque, wells, tanks and baodi.

History

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/kadwaya-temples-history.html

The Group of Temples

The Akhati Group of Temples consists of three temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. All these temples lost their respective shikaras.

Temple A:

The temple is the largest and best-preserved temple in the group. The temple is facing towards east and is situated on the western corner of the group. The temple stands over a raised platform and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala and mukha mandapa. This temple is the only temple in the group with an intact mukha mandapa. The mukha mandapa is supported by two pillars and two pilasters.

The small decorated chandrashila at the entrance of the mukha mandapa is engraved with a one-word inscription mentioning Pratihara. The door jamb of the sanctum is profusely carved and embellished with five bands of decorations. The lintel is decorated with Vishnu on his mount Garuda at the central position and Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva on the ends. Navagrahas can be seen in between them.

The architrave is carved with images of Dashavataras. The river goddesses, Ganga and Yamuna with their respective mounts can be seen at the base of the doorjambs. The exterior wall is decorated with two bands of images. The upper row has smaller figures of vidyadharas while the lower row has the customary figures of deities at the bhadra & kapili projections, apsaras at the pratirathas, dikpalas at the karnas and vyalas & apsaras lies in salilantaras.

The images on the bhadra and kapili projections are in niches, which occupy the entire height of the jangha and of the kapili and are canopied by makara-toranas flanked by a decorative design of shikharas. The bhadra niches are topped by a frieze crowned with an udgama and only a mutilated figure of Narasimha in the north is now preserved.

The kapili niches have Vaikuntha in the south and Parvati in the north. The lateral south wall shows reclining figures of a mother feeding child, surmounted by Sheshashayi Vishnu and the north wall displays a standing figure of mother carrying a child. The west wall had a prominent recess flanked by pilasters carved with a pair of lotus-medallions on the upper part.

Temple B:

The temple is facing towards west and stands over a low raised platform The temple is pancharatha on plan and dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple consisted of sanctum and entrance porch. The entrance porch and the shikara over the sanctum are lost completely. The sanctum enshrines a rectangular pedestal with Garuda image. The doorjamb is plain with three bands.

The dedicatory block at the lintel has an image of Lord Vishnu in standing posture while the terminal projections has images of Lord Vishnu & Lord Shiva with seated Saraswathi & Ganesh in the recesses. The river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna can be seen at the base of the doorjamb. The exterior wall is decorated with single band of images except the pratirathas has small images of ascetics seated posture.

The bhadra and the kapili projections are decorated with deities in niches crowned with udgamas while the karnas show dikpalas canopied by smaller udgamas. The bhadra niches has images of Bhuvaraha on the south, Vamana on the east and Narasimha on the north. Ashta dikpalas can be seen in their respective coordinates on pratiratha niches.

Temple C:

The temple is facing towards east and stands over a low raised platform The temple is in ruined state and dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple consisted of sanctum and entrance porch. The entrance porch and the shikara over the sanctum are lost completely. The sanctum enshrines a rectangular pedestal with Garuda image. The sanctum door is plain and is recently restored. The exterior wall is decorated with two band of images except the karna, which has dikpalas in niches canopied with an udgama.

The exterior wall is restored with new slabs during the recent renovations. The southern bhadra niches have sculptures of seated Sarasvati in the upper level & dancing Ganesha in the lower level and the northern bhadra niches have sculptures of seated Gaja Lakshmi in the upper level and standing Parvati in the lower level.

Connectivity

Location

Akhati Group of Temples, Kadwaya, Madhya Pradesh

History

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/kadwaya-temples-history.html

The Group of Temples

The Akhati Group of Temples consists of three temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. All these temples lost their respective shikaras.

Temple A:

Temple B:

Temple C:

Connectivity

Location

Kadwaya Temples – History

Kadwaya was considered as the principal seat of the Mattamayura sect of Shaivism during 8^th century CE. Kadwaya was called as Kadambaguha and Mattamayurapura during the 8^th century CE as per the inscription found at Rannod. The Rannod inscription mentions that sage Purandara established mathas (monasteries) at Rannod and Kadwaya after initiating the Chalukya King Avantivarman; the latter was ruling from Kadwaya as his capital.

The Mattamayura clan got associated with the Kalachuri kings of Tripuri during the 10 – 11^th century CE. A 10^th century CE inscription mentions the initiation of a Pratihara king, Hariraja, from a disciple of Dharmashiva at the Kadwaya matha. Inscriptions dated to the reigns of Kalachuri Kings Yuvaraja I, Lakshmanaraja II and Kokalladeva II mentions about the ascetics of Mattamayura sect and donations & respect shown to them by the royal house of the Kalchuris.

Babur in his Babur Nama mentions a place called Kachwa, en route to Chanderi. Kadwaya suffered under the empire of Alauddin Khalji. An inscription dated to 1309 CE mentions that a sage named Bhuteshvara did a severe penance when the world was harassed by the mlecchas and the latter committed sins 19 times. The inscription suggests that though the village was taken over by the forces of Alauddin Khalji, the matha continued to carry out its functions.

The matha in Kadwaya was also converted into a fortress and a mosque was built over a temple, suggesting that it became a military post during the Khalji and the later Tughluq period. The matha is believed to be built by Kachchhapaghata Dynasty but most of the temples were built by the Pratiharas. There are no foundation inscriptions to ascertain the builder of these temples.

Chandla Matha, Kadwaya, Madhya Pradesh

Chandla Matha is a Hindu religious monastery located in Kadwaya Village in Isagarh Tehsil in Ashok Nagar District in Madhya Pradesh, India. The Matha was affiliated to the Mattamayura sect of the Shaiva pontiffs. The Kadwaya village is famous for its temples, sculptures and structures such as monasteries, ruined mosque, wells, tanks and baodi.

History

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/kadwaya-temples-history.html

The Matha

The Chandla Matha is situated to the south of the Garhi Shiva Temple within the fort. It is a double storied large monastery building. It measures 93 feet long and 93 feet breadth. It has a central open square courtyard supported by pillared corridors on all sides with some meditation cells and halls. The exterior walls are plain with a double row of windows and a small entrance on the north. The matha is in ruined state and fortified with surrounding walls. The fortification was constructed around the monastery built in 15^th century CE during the regime of the Malwa Sultans.

Connectivity

Location

Garhi Temple, Kadwaya, Madhya Pradesh

Garhi Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Kadwaya Village in Isagarh Tehsil in Ashok Nagar District in Madhya Pradesh, India. This temple is located near the primary school of Kadwaya. The Kadwaya village is famous for its temples, sculptures and structures such as monasteries, ruined mosque, wells, tanks and baodi.

History

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/kadwaya-temples-history.html

The Temple

This temple is facing towards west and located in a lower level from the surrounding floor. The temple is surrounded by a rectangular stone wall. The front side of the temple is obstructed by the ruins of an ancient mosque constructed by Alauddin Khilji. An inscription dated to 1309 CE mentioning the name of Alauddin Khilji can be found on the floor of this temple. Alauddin Khilji might have destroyed a temple and would have built the mosque in its place. The temple consists of sanctum and mukha mandapa.

The mukha mandapa is supported by two pillars and two pilasters. The sanctum enshrines a Shiva Linga housed on a high yonipitha. The ceiling of the sanctum is carved with lotus relief. The door jamb of the sanctum is profusely carved and embellished with five bands of decorations. The lintel of the doorjamb has images of Nataraja in the central position and Uma Maheshvara & Lakshmi Narayana at the terminal projections. Images of Navagrahas can be seen on the recesses.

The architrave is carved with images of twelve forms of Adityas. The shikara over the sanctum is missing. The exterior wall is decorated with two bands of images. The bhadra and the kapili niches have figures of dancing Ganesha & Kshemankari on the south, Chamunda & Parvati on the north and the images on the eastern side are missing. The pratirathas and the salilantaras are carved with deities, nayikas, and vyalas and the karnas are carved with dikpalas. The upper row of the jangha are carved with Matrikas.

Connectivity

Location

Marghatia Temple, Kadwaya, Madhya Pradesh

Marghatia Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Kadwaya Village in Isagarh Tehsil in Ashok Nagar District in Madhya Pradesh, India. The Kadwaya village is famous for its temples, sculptures and structures such as monasteries, ruined mosque, wells, tanks and baodi.

History

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/kadwaya-temples-history.html

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east and stands over a low raised platform. The temple is pancharatha on plan and triangabada on elevation. The temple consists of sanctum and mukha mandapa. The mukha mandapa is supported by two pillars and two pilasters. The sanctum enshrines a Shiva Linga within a yonipitha. An image of Uma Mahesvara can be seen on the rear wall of the sanctum behind the Linga.

The door jamb of the sanctum is profusely carved and embellished with five bands of decorations. The lintel of the doorjamb has images of Lord Shiva in the central position and Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu at the terminal projections. Images of Navagrahas and Sapta Matrikas can be seen on the recesses. The architrave of the doorjamb is missing. The river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna can be seen at the base of the doorjamb.

The shikara over the sanctum follows nagara style. It has three half amalakas on three sides at the griva level but the main central amalakas and the crowning elements are lost. The exterior wall is decorated with two bands of images. The bhadra niches has images of Lakulisa & Parvati on the north, Surya & Nataraja on the west and Sarasvati & Gaja Samhara Murthy on the south respectively in the upper and the lower level.

The pratiratha and the salilantaras are decorated with deities, dikpalas, and vyalas. The niches on three sides above the jangha shelter has Lord Shiva in seated posture in different forms. The shukanasika over the mukha mandapa has an image of Surya in seated posture in chariot driven by seven horses. The walls are decorated with sculptures of nayikas, vyalas, dancers, mithunas, and others.

Connectivity

Location

Murayata Group of Temples, Kadwaya, Madhya Pradesh

Murayata Group of Temples are group of Hindu Temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Kadwaya Village in Isagarh Tehsil in Ashok Nagar District in Madhya Pradesh, India. The name Murayata is considered as a corrupt form of Mattamayura. The Kadwaya village is famous for its temples, sculptures and structures such as monasteries, ruined mosque, wells, tanks and baodi.

History

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/kadwaya-temples-history.html

The Group of Temples

The Murayata Group of Temples consists of two temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Murayata Temple A (Toteshvara Mahadeva Temple):

This temple is the largest in the group and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is facing towards east and located on the west of the tank. This temple is considered as the most developed temple in terms of its plan, elevation, components, and sculptures. The temple stands over a raised platform and can be accessed through flight of steps. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala and mukha mandapa. The sanctum enshrines the presiding deity Toteshvara Mahadeva, in the form of Shiva Linga with in circular yonipitha.

The door jamb of the sanctum is profusely carved and embellished with seven bands of decorations. The lintel is decorated with Ganesha in seated posture at the central position. The architrave is carved with images of Lord Shiva with his consort at the central position and Lord Brahma & Lord Vishnu with their respective consorts at the terminal projections. The shikara over the sanctum follows Nagara Latina style. The shikara over the sanctum is connected to a low protrusion tower called Sukanasi (tower over the antrala).

The mandapa is surrounded by parapet walls provided with kakshasana on the interior and supported by intricately carved pillars. The exterior wall is decorated with two bands of images. The kapili niche on the south has image of Uma Mahesvara in the upper band while sculptures of the lower band and niches on the northern kapili are missing. The walls are decorated with sculptures of nayikas, vyalas, dancers, mithunas, and others. Also, a band of sculptures run across the roof of the sanctum and the mukhamandapa. Sculptures of Tripurantaka, Chamunda, Ashta dikpalas, etc. can be seen on this band.

Murayata Temple B:

This temple is a unique temple with twin sanctums on the eastern and the western side. The temple is pancharatha on plan. A similar temple with back to back sanctums is also seen at Khajuraho. The eastern sanctum enshrines a Shiva Linga within a yonipitha. The lintel of the doorjamb has images of Shiva at the central position and Brahma & Vishnu at the terminal projections. The doorjamb of the western sanctum has a grooved lintel architrave. The central bhadra niche on the north shows Nataraja in the upper level & Parvathy in the lower level and the southern bhadra niche shows Nardana Ganesha in the lower level.

Connectivity

Location

Kadwaya Temples, Madhya Pradesh

Kadwaya Temples are group of Hindu Temples dedicated to Lord Shiva & Lord Vishnu and a monastery affiliated to Mattamayura sect of Shaivism, located in Kadwaya Village in Isagarh Tehsil in Ashok Nagar District in Madhya Pradesh, India. There are about fifteen sandstone temples in Kadwaya. All the temples are under the protection of ASI. Kadwaya was considered as the principal seat of the Mattamayura sect of Shaivism during 8^th century CE.

History

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/kadwaya-temples-history.html

The Temples

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/kadwaya-temples-temples.html

Connectivity

Location

Lakshman Temple, Chanderi, Madhya Pradesh

Lakshman Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Lakshman located at Chanderi Town in Chanderi Tehsil in Ashok Nagar District in Madhya Pradesh, India. This Temple is considered as the most revered temple of the town.

Legends

Lakshman Temple:

As per legend, once, a group of pilgrims took rest on the banks of Parmeshwar tank after an arduous day long journey. They were carrying an idol of Lakshman along with them and kept the idol under a Peepal tree during their rest. When they woke up in the morning and tried to lift the idol, the idol did not move. All theirs efforts in lifting the idol failed. The pilgrims took it as divine intervention that the deity desired to be enshrined at that place. The pilgrims built a small shrine around the idol. Later, kings developed the temple into a grand edifice.

Parmeshwar Tal:

As per legend, Parmeshwar Tal is the tank where the Pratihara king Kirti Pal took bath and was cured from leprosy.

History

The Temple might have been built by the Gurjara Pratihara Dynasty. Later, the temple was completely rebuilt by Bundela King Anirudh Singh in 18th century CE.

The Temple

The temple is situated on the banks of the Parmeshwar Tank. The temple enshrines an idol of Lakshman and Sheshnag inside its sanctum. There are shrines for Radha Krishna and Shiva can be seen in the temple complex. The cenotaphs of three Rajput kings can be seen near this temple.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 3 Kms from Chanderi Bus Stand, 42 Kms from Lalitpur, 42 Kms from Lalitpur Airport, 43 Kms from Lalitpur Junction Railway Station, 45 Kms from Isagarh, 55 Kms from Ashok Nagar, 129 Kms from Shivpuri, 110 Kms from Jhansi and 215 Kms from Bhopal. Chanderi is situated on Bhopal to Jhansi route.

Location

Jageshwari Temple, Chanderi – Legends

Shishupala, King of Chedi, worshipped Goddess here:

As per legend, Shishupala, King of Chedi country during Mahabharata period, lost in the forest here during his hunting expedition. He felt thirsty, but he was not able to find any water source to quench his thirst. He spotted a woman and asked her water. The woman was actually a goddess and she excavated the water tank for the king to quench his thirst.

The grateful king asked her wish. She requested him to build a temple with a screen around the sanctum. She insisted him not to remove the screen for nine days. As requested, the king built the temple but was not able to control his curiosity. He set the screen aside in few days only to see that a head had formed in the sanctum, but there was no body of the idol. This idol is now housed at the Jageshwari Temple.

Raja Kirti Pal:

As per local folklore, the Pratihara king, Raja Kirti Pal was afflicted with leprosy. He was not cured till his old age. Once, he went for a hunting expedition here and lost his way. He strayed into a deep forest wandering directionless and found a pond. He dipped his hands to drink water and miraculously found his leprosy cured. He found a girl child watching.

The king was surprised to see a child in deep forest. As the king approached the child, she started to run. The king chased her for a while, the child stopped and talked to the king. The child revealed herself to the king that she was the goddess Jageshwari and the king was cured because of her blessings only. The goddess ordered the king to build a temple for her atop a hill nearby.

The goddess further instructed the king not to place any idol in the sanctum and keep the doors locked for nine days. She will emerge as an idol inside the sanctum. As instructed, the king built the temple but was not able to control his curiosity. The king opened the door of the temple before nine days. The king was again inflicted by leprosy as the curse.

As he opened the door of the temple before the time specified, only the head of the goddess had been formed by that time. Thus, the sanctum enshrines an idol of head of the goddess. Budhi Chanderi, the erstwhile capital of the king was destroyed by an earthquake soon after this incident. This made the king to move his capital to the present town.

Sakthi Peethas:

It is believed that the head of Goddess Sati fell at Chanderi. Hence, this temple is considered as one of the 51 Sakthi Peethas.

Jageshwari Temple, Chanderi, Madhya Pradesh

Jageshwari Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Goddess Sakthi located at Chanderi Town in Chanderi Tehsil in Ashok Nagar District in Madhya Pradesh, India. This Temple is considered as the most revered temple of the town.

Legends

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/jageshwari-temple-chanderi-legends.html

History

The temple might have been originally built in 6^th century CE and later rebuilt in 11^th century CE by Pratiharas. Chanderi was known as Chedi in the Mahabharata.

The Temple

The temple is situated on a hillside and can be accessed by climbing 90 steps from the foot of the hill. The presiding deity Jageshwari is enshrined inside a cave around which a modern temple building is constructed. The idol is Swayambhu (self-manifested). The idol has only head and is placed on a pedestal, heavily draped with cloth. The shrine is guarded by two idols of lion. There are several shrines in the temple complex housing various shivalingas.

There are three distinct shivalingas, two have 1100 shivalingas carved on their surface while one has four faces on it. The temple tank, Sagar Kund, is situated at the bottom of hill. The water from natural springs in the hills flow down and get collected in this tank. This tank was commissioned by Madho Rao Scindia in 1894 as per an inscriptional slab kept near the gateway. There is a ghat on one side and chataris on its four corners.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 1.5 Kms from Chanderi Bus Stand, 38 Kms from Lalitpur, 38 Kms from Lalitpur Airport, 39 Kms from Lalitpur Junction Railway Station, 44 Kms from Isagarh, 55 Kms from Ashok Nagar, 129 Kms from Shivpuri, 106 Kms from Jhansi and 215 Kms from Bhopal. Chanderi is situated on Bhopal to Jhansi route.

Location

Sthaneshwar Mahadev Temple, Thanesar – Legends

Lord Krishna along with the Pandavas worshipped Lord Shiva here:

As per legend, Lord Krishna along with the Pandavas worshipped Lord Shiva here and sought his blessings for the victory in the battle of Mahabharata.

Thanesar:

The name Thanesar is derived from the presiding deity of this temple, Sthanishvara / Sthaneshwar. Sthanishvara means abode of Lord Shiva in Sanskrit.

Origin of Linga worship:

As per legend, this temple is considered as the place where Lord Brahma installed the first Linga of Lord Shiva. Thus, this temple is considered as the origin of Linga worship.

Bhishma Kund:

There is a small pond in front of the temple. It is said few drops of water from this temple pond cured the leprosy of King Bana. The temple pond is believed to be the place where Bhishma Pitamaha, lay in the bed of arrows during the Mahabharata war. Thus, the temple tank came to be called as Bhishma Kund.

Sthaneshwar Mahadev Temple, Thanesar, Haryana

Sthaneshwar Mahadev Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Thanesar Town in Kurukshetra District in the Indian State of Haryana. The temple is considered as one of the oldest temples of Kurukshetra. It is the central and the most important place in the 48 kos parikrama of Kurukshetra. It is believed that Kurukshetra pilgrimage visit is incomplete without visiting this temple.

Legends

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/sthaneshwar-mahadev-temple-thanesar-legends.html

History

The Temple is believed to be built by Pushyabhuti dynasty. Pushyabhuti, the founder of the Pushyabhuti dynasty named the capital of his kingdom after the presiding deity of this temple, Sthaneshwar. The temple played an important part of the kingdom of King Harsh Vardhana of Pushyabhuti dynasty. The present temple is said to be constructed by Sadashivrao Bhau, the Commander-in-Chief of Maratha forces, to commemorate his victory over Ahmed Shah Abdali at Kunjpura before the third battle of Panipat. The ninth Guru, Shri Tegh Bahadur stayed at a spot near the Sthaneshwar Tirtha that is marked by a gurdwara just besides this temple.

The Temple

The temple is provided with a dome-shaped roof. The facade of the roof is shaped like an amla along with a tall pinnacle. The sanctum enshrines the presiding deity, Sthaneshwar, in the form of Shiva Lingam. There are ancient paintings carved on the interior of the roof. It has a shrine dedicated to Lakshmi Narayan to the left side of the sanctum. There are shrines for Bhairava, Hanuman, Rama and Durga in the temple premises. There is a small pond in front of the temple.

Festivals

Shivaratri is the most famous festival celebrated here.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 2 Kms from Thanesar Old Bus Stand, 2 Kms from Thanesar City Railway Station, 5 Kms from Kurukshetra New Bus Stand, 5 Kms from Kurukshetra Junction Railway Station, 26 Kms from Pehowa, 50 Kms from Yamuna Nagar, 53 Kms from Ambala, 93 Kms from Chandigarh Airport, 98 Kms from Chandigarh and 178 Kms from New Delhi. The temple is situated on the Kurukshetra to Pehowa road.

Location

Dehra Temple, Bhond, Haryana

Dehra Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Bhond Village in Nuh District in the Indian State of Haryana. The temple is situated on the foot hills of a hillock in Bhond village. The temple once housed a Shiva Linga in its sanctum, later got removed and placed in in the Jaina Temple at Firozpur Jhirka. This temple complex is protected as monuments of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 3 Kms from Firozpur Jhirka, 3 Kms from Firozpur Jhirka Bus Stand, 43 Kms from Nuh, 53 Kms from Alwar, 58 Kms from Bhiwadi, 63 Kms from Sohna, 106 Kms from New Delhi Airport and 113 Kms from New Delhi. The Temple is situated at about 3 Kms from Firozpur Jhirka on the Nuh to Alwar route.

Location

Sun Temple, Kotai, Gujarat

Sun Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Surya located in Kotai Village in Bhuj Taluka of Kutch district of Gujarat, India. The temple is situated on the shore of Greater Rann of Kutch. The Temple is one of the protected monuments in Gujarat declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

History

The temple is believed to be built during the 10^th century CE. Kotai village has the remains of an old city and several ruined temples dating back to the earlier part of the tenth century CE.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards west and stands over a raised platform. The platform provides ample space for the devotess to circumbulate the temple. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala, sabha mandapa and mukha mandapa. The mukha mandapa is lost completely except the base of the front pillars. The lintel of the doorway of the hall is carved with Navagrahas. The sabha mandapa is supported by four central pillars and six pilasters on the side walls.

The door jamb of the sanctum has two bands of decoration. Ganesha can be seen at the center of the lintel. The shikara resembles the design of the Ambika Mata Temple at Jagat. There are three shrines situated to the west of the temple. Two shrines are facing towards the east and one is facing towards the north. The north facing shrine is dedicated to Lord Vishnu with only a fragment of the shrine remaining. Of the east facing shrines, the left side shrine has niches enshrining the image of Surya on the west and Varaha on the south.

The lintel has the image of Ganesha The right shrine consists of sanctum and an entrance porch. Only part of the porch remains. The lintel of the sanctum is carved with images of Navagrahas. The sanctum has niches enshrining the image of Narasimha on the north and Vishnu on the west. Both the images are highly eroded. There are remains of two more west facing shrines across a ravine to the north-east of this temple.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 7 Kms from Kunariya, 13 Kms from Lodai, 25 Kms from Bhuj Airport, 25 Kms from Bhuj Railway Station, 28 Kms from Bhuj, 28 Kms from Bhuj Bus Stand, 65 Kms from Bhimasar and 83 Kms from Mundra. The temple is situated on Kunariya to Lodai route.

Location

Mahadeva Temple, Amledha, Madhya Pradesh

Mahadeva Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located at Amledha Village near Padhawali in Morena Tehsil in Morena District in Madhya Pradesh, India. The Temple is one of the state protected monuments in Madhya Pradesh declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

History

The temple is believed to be built in 11^th century CE by Kachchhapaghata rulers.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards west and follows Mandapika style. The temple stands over a raised platform. The lintel of the sanctum doorway has images of Lord Shiva at the centre flanked by Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu at the terminal projections. The external walls is decorated with images of Kartikeya, Surya, Kubera, Ganesha, floral motifs and geometrical patterns. Broken sculptures, broken Shiva Linga and architectural fragments can be found scattered around the temple premises.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 2 Kms from Mitaoli, 6 Kms from Padhavali, 13 Kms from Malanpur Railway Station, 17 Kms from Malanpur, 30 Kms from Gwalior Airport, 31 Kms from Morena Railway Station, 32 Kms from Morena, 33 Kms from Gwalior Bus Stand, 36 Kms from Gwalior and 39 Kms from Gwalior Railway Station. The temple is situated on Padhawali to Varadeh road.

Location

Chaya Someswara Temple, Panagal – The Temple

This temple is facing towards east. The temple has entrances from three sides, but the main entrance is facing towards south. The temple consists of Navaranga, Antarala and Sanctum. The temple is constructed in Trikutachala style, consisting of three sanctums, one each on north, east and west. Only the main sanctum, in the west, is provided with antarala (vestibule), the rests directly opens into the common mandapa (Navaranga).

The eastern shrine houses Lord Surya and northern shrine houses Lord Vishnu. Only Peeta is available in these shrines. The sanctum houses Lord Someswara / Chaya Someswara in the form of Shiva Lingam. The lingam is generally kept in knee deep water. All the three shrines are crowned with stepped Pyramidal shikaras. The temple got the name as it is believed that the formation of mysterious shadow (Chaya in Telugu) of a pillar falls over the main deity of Shiva Lingam throughout the day irrespective of the position of the sun.

It looks like a shadow of one of the pillars carved in front of the sanctum, but it is not actually the shadow of any pillar. The dark area is formed by the reflection of light through multiple pillars placed in front of sanctum and the shadow is a consolidated shadow of those pillars. The pillars in the temple are strategically placed so that the light falls at the same place throughout the day.

There are shrines for Vinayaga, Kartikeya, Mohini, Bhairava, Nataraja, and Kalika Mata in the temple premises. Seven beheaded Nandis can be found in the temple premises. Most of the idols in this temple suffered destruction during Islamic invasion. The pillars are decorated with intricate carvings depicting scenes from Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas. Sthala Vriksham is Avathambar tree. Theertham associated with this temple is Udayasamudram.

Chaya Someswara Temple, Panagal, Telangana

Chaya Someswara Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Panagal, an historical town, near Nalgonda Town in Nalgonda District of Telangana, India. The temple is located to the east of the village in the midst of paddy fields on the banks of Udayasamudram tank. The temple is in close proximity to the Pachala Someswara Temple, another Saivite shrine dating to the same period.

Legends

As per legend, it is believed that Chaya Devi, the consort of Lord Surya, worshipping Lord Shiva in the form of shadow in this temple. Hence, Lord Shiva came to be called as Chaya Someswara.

History

The temple was probably built in the 11^th and 12^th centuries CE during the rule of Kunduru Chodas and extensively renovated by Prataparudra I of Kakatiya Empire. Panagal of Nalgonda was an important religious place during Kakatiya period. An inscription in Pachala Someswara temple attributes the construction of Pachala Someswara temple and Chaya Someswara temple to Prataparudra I of Kakatiya Empire. The temple suffered destruction during Islamic invasion.

The Temple

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/chaya-someswara-temple-panagal-temple.html

Temple Opening Time

The Temple remains open from 6.00 am to 12.00 noon and 2.00 pm to 8.00 pm.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 1.5 Kms from Panagal, 2 Kms from Nalgonda Bypass Bus Stop, 4 Kms from Nalgonda Bus Stand, 4 Kms from Nalgonda Railway Station, 20 Kms from Nakrekal, 102 Kms from Hyderabad and 116 Kms from Hyderabad Airport. The temple is situated on Nalgonda to Nakrekal route.

Location

Mookambika Temple, Kollur – The Temple

The Temple is situated in the foothills of Kodachadri hills, on the southern bank of Souparnika River. The Temple is facing towards east. The main entrance is on the eastern side. The western entrance is opened only on special occasions. It is believed that Aadi Sankara entered the temple through the western entrance. There is a 2000 years old iron pillar similar to the pillar in front of the Qutub Minar in Delhi. It has not rusted till date despite the place is prone to 6 to 8 months of rain.

It is popularly referred as Dhwaja Sthamba (flag-staff) of the temple. The flag staff weighs about 500 kg. Deepastambam can be found immediately after the main entrance next to Dhwaja Sthambam. There is a Ganapathy idol called as Kambhada Ganapathi sculpted on the pillar. The Temple consists of Sanctum, a hall and the Lakshmi Mandapam. Presiding Deity is called as Mookambika.

She is housed in the sanctum in a unique form of a Swayambhu Jyotirlinga with a golden line cutting it into half, in which the left half represents Tridevis (Parvathy, Lakshmi & Saraswathi), and the right half represents Trimurtis (Lord Shiva, Vishnu & Brahma). There is a Panchaloka idol of Goddess Mookambika situated behind the Linga in the sanctum. It is said this Panchaloka idol have been consecrated by Adi Shankaracharya.

She has three eyes and four arms. She is in the Padmasana posture holding Shanku and Chakra and shows Abhaya and Varada Mudras. Idols of Kali and Saraswathi can be found on both sides of the idol. The Sanctum has a quadrangular shape with a Vimana Gopuram. The Shikara of the sanctum is gilded with gold. There is a room near the sanctum enshrining the Sankara Simhaasana. It is the place where Adi Shankaracharya meditated and had a vision of the Goddess Mookambika.

The Saraswathi Mandapam is situated on the southern side of the outer prakaram. The ceremony of Vidyarambha (the initiation of learning to children) and Anna Prashana (first intake of solid food) will be held in this Mandapam. The Adi Shankaracharya Peetha can be seen on the western side of the Sanctum.

There are shrines for Lord Subramanya, Dasabhuja Ganapathi, Anjaneya, Chandramouleshwara, Pancha Mukha Ganapathy Partheswara, Nagas, Pranalingeswara, Nanjundeswara, Venkataramana, Tulsi Krishna and Veerabhadra in the temple premises. The idol of Chandramouleshwara is said to have been installed by Adi Shankaracharya.

Veerabhadra is worshipped first by devotees before entering the shrine to Mookambika. Theerthams associated with this temple are Agni Theertham, Kasi Theertham, Shukla Theertham, Madhu Theertham, Govinda Theertham, Agasthya Theertham, Archana Gundu Theertham and Souparnika River. Kodachadri mountain houses the Parvatheshwara Temple, Kalabhairava Temple, Parvathi Temple and a Ganapathi Cave Temple.

It is believed that demon Mookasura meditated at the entrance of this cave temple. Sarvanjna Peetha is the sacred place where Adi Shankaracharya performed meditation. It is situated little above the Ganapathi Cave Temple. Chitra Moola is the place where Sage Kola and Adi Shankaracharya performed penance. This place is situated little above the Sarvanjna Peetha. There is wide dense forest known as Ambavana situated below Chitra Moola. Bhagavathy Temple is situated inside this forest.

Mookambika Temple, Kollur – Legends

Kollur:

Once, a demon named Kamhasura (also known as Mookasura) got a powerful boon from Lord Shiva that no male can kill him. After obtaining the boon, he started misusing his powers by troubling sages and Devas. He disrupted the penance of Sage Kola who was performing poojas to the Swarna Rekha Lingam. When the saint asked Lord Shiva how he could worship the Lingam without Goddess, Lord Shiva replied that on the left side of the Lingam were all the three manifestations of the Goddess Lakshmi, Saraswathi, and Parvati will be present. The Sage prayed to the Goddess Parvati, who incarnated as Thrisoolanayaki.

Kamhasura came to know that his death was approaching by means of a lady. He undertook an intense penance again for the Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva appeared before him and asked the demon for his wish. Sensing the danger, Goddess took away his speech ability. Kamhasura was then known as Mookasura which means muted demon. Later, Goddess with the assistance of Veerabhadra slayed the demon. The place where the Goddess killed Mookasura came to be known as Marna Katte. There is a Sri Chakra symbolizing Devi at the temple of Marna Katte. As sage Kola meditated here, the place came to be called as Kolapura which got corrupted to Kollur.

108 Shiva Temples of Kerala:

Adi Shankaracharya installed Goddess Mookambika at Kollur:

It is believed that Adi Shankaracharya performed penance on Goddess Mookambika at Kodachadri hills. Goddess appeared before him asking for his wish. He revealed his wish to install idol in a place in Kerala to worship. Goddess agreed but put forward a condition that she will follow Shankara and he should not look back till he reaches his destination if he breaks the condition then he has to install her idol where she was at that moment. Goddess decided to test Adi Shankaracharya. Hence, she deliberately stopped the noise of her anklets when they reached Kollur. Adi Shankaracharya got doubt and looked back to ensure whether goddess is still with him or not.

Goddess then asked Adi Shankaracharya to install her idol at that very location at Kollur. Adi Sankaracharya installed the Idol and prayed goddess to forgive him for the mistake. Goddess agreed to present at Chottanikkara temple in Kerala in the morning hours and returns to Kollur Temple by mid of the day. The original temple where Adi Sankaracharya performed penance and Goddess appeared before him is at Kodachadri peak (1343 meters), located at about 21 Kms from Kollur. Kodachadri peak is also visible from Kollur Mookambika Temple.

Souparnika River:

It is a believed that an eagle named Suparna performed penance for Goddess Mookambika on the banks of the river and attained salvation. Hence, the river came to be called as Souparnika River. It is believed that river absorbs the elements of 64 different medicinal plants and roots as it flows, therefore it cures diseases of those who bath in it.

Kodachadri Mountain:

As per legend, Lakshmana fell unconscious during the battle in Lanka. Lord Hanuman was tasked to bring Sanjeevini herbs from Sanjeevini Mountain to revive Lakshmana. Lord Hanuman brought Sanjeevini Mountain and was on his way back to Lanka. A small portion of the mountain had broken and fell here. The portion fell was the Kodachadri mountain range. It is believed that the mountain is full of medicinal plants, creepers and roots. Chithira Moolai in Kodachadri mountain is the place where Sage Kola and Adi Shankaracharya performed penance. It is also said that Mother Mookambika created a water falls for the use of the sages in the mountain range.

Seven Mukti Sthalam Pilgrimage Sites:

Kollur is regarded as one of the Seven Mukti Sthalam pilgrimage sites by created by Lord Parashurama in Karnataka.

The Seven Mukti Sthalam pilgrimage sites are;

· Kukke Subrahmanya

· Udupi

· Kumbhashi

· Kodeshwara

· Sankaranarayana

· Kollur

· Gokarna

Kashayam Offering:

It is said that Adi Shankaracharya was not able to get up one day after completing his meditation. Mother herself prepared a medicine for the Adi Shankaracharya and gave it to him. Following this event, Kashayam, a medicine prepared with herbals is offered as Prasad to devotees. This is devotionally consumed by the devotees.

Poojas during eclipse times:

As a tradition, the doors of the temples are kept closed during the eclipse period, but this temple is an exception. Pujas continue even during eclipse times.

Brahmmacharis are not allowed to perform Poojas:

It is said that Brahmmacharis are not allowed to perform pujas in the temple.

Mookambika Temple, Kollur, Karnataka

Mookambika Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Goddess Shakthi, located in Kollur Town in Udupi District in Karnataka, India. The Temple is situated in the foothills of Kodachadri hills, on the southern bank of Souparnika River. This Temple is considered as one of the 108 Shiva Temples created by Lord Parasurama. It is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage centres in Kerala. The Temple is one of the most revered pilgrimage centres in Karnataka and Kerala.

Legends

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/mookambika-temple-kollur-legends.html

History

The Temple is believed to be around 2000 years old. This Temple is considered as state temple of Keladi Dynasty. The Temple was extensively renovated by the Kings of Keladi Dynasty namely Sankanna Nayaka and Shivappa Nayaka. Most of the jewels adorning the idol currently are said to have been presented by them and by their overlords of Vijayanagara. The legendary Rani Chennamaji offered precious emerald jewellery to the Goddess which she still adorns and Gold face for the Lingam.

The King Halugulla Veera Sangayya constructed the stone walls inside the Temple and built several of the present structures under the orders of Rani Chennamaji. The Vijayanagara Emperor Krishnadevaraya presented a Golden Mask. The Temple was looted heavily during the Maratha raids in 18^th Century CE. The Late MG Ramachandran, then Chief Minister of Tamilnadu presented a Silver Sword to the Goddess.

The Temple

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/mookambika-temple-kollur-temple.html

Temple Opening Time

· Morning: 5 A.M to 1.30 PM

· Noon: 3.00 PM to 5.00 PM (Only Darshan)

· Evening: 5.00 PM to 9.00 PM (Except Special days)

Pooja Timings

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/mookambika-temple-kollur-pooja-timings.html

Festivals

Rathotsava in the month of Phalguna, Ugadi, Deepavali, Dhanur Masa, Shivaratri, Chandika Homa, Ashtabhanda Brahmakalashotsva (celebrated once in 12 years) and Navaratri in the month of Ashwina are the main festivals celebrated in this temple.

Literary Mention

Adi Shankaracharya sung his Kala Rohanam in praise of the Mother and gained her blessings. It is also said that Adi Shankaracharya authored his Soundarya Lahiri from this temple. The 98^th verse in the series is dedicated to Mother Mookambika.

Prayers

Devotees pray here for gaining knowledge, wisdom and excellence in educational pursuits. Parents begin schooling for their children in the temple. The Kashaya Theertham is made of ginger, pepper, cardamom, lavang and jaggery. It is a ritual that is in practice since the time of Sri Adi Shankaracharya who introduced this Theertham as a medicinal drink.

Important Information

The Temple administration requests the male devotees to remove their shirts and vests before entering the temple premises. Clothes such as Coats, Hats, Turbans, Bermuda, and Shorts, and Lungi are not allowed inside the temple. Women are requested to dress decently. Ladies should not enter the Temple for 11 days after child delivery. Ladies should not enter the Temple during their monthly period (5 days) time. Pregnant women should not enter the Temple Courtyard after 7 months. If there is any Death in the family, the family members should not enter the Courtyard of the Temple for 11 days.

Contact

Mookambika Temple,

Kollur, Kundapura Taluk,

Udupi District – 576 220

Karnataka, India

Phone: +91 8254 258 221

Mobile: +91 94481 77892

Email: eosmtkollur@gmail.com

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 750 meters from Kollur Bus Stand, 5 Kms from Halkal Junction, 30 Kms from Mookambika Road Byndoor Railway Station, 38 Kms from Kundapura, 74 Kms from Udupi, 131 Kms from Mangalore Airport, 132 Kms from Mangalore, 358 Kms from Mysuru and 430 Kms from Bengaluru. Kollur is located at about 74 Kms from Udupi. On the National High 17, after around 7 Kms from Kundapura, at Hemmady one has to take right deviation to reach Kollur. Kollur is well connected to Mangalore, Bangalore and Mysore. Regular buses ply from Udupi.

Location

Madpaha Temple, Baijnath, Madhya Pradesh

Madpaha Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located at Baijnath Village near Rewa City in Huzur Tehsil in Rewa District in Madhya Pradesh, India. The Temple is one of the state protected monuments in Madhya Pradesh declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

History

The temple was constructed by the rulers of Baghela Dynasty of Rewa.

The Temple

The temple is facing towards east and has Islamic influences in its architectural style. The temple consists of sanctum and mandapa. The sanctum is rectangular in plan in the interior and the three walls have wave like vaults. It has doors on the three sides. The door of the sanctum sanctorum has a wave like pattern. The mandapa is also rectangular in shape. The roof of the mandapa has four small shrine like structures. The mandapa is supported by sixteen pillars. Idols of Gangadhara, Vishnu, Nandi and Durga can be seen in the temple premises.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 3 Kms from Bela, 15 Kms from Rewa Railway Station, 19 Kms from Rewa, 21 Kms from Rewa Bus Stand, 21 Kms from Govindgarh, 31 Kms from Amarpatan, 42 Kms from Satna and 232 Kms from Jabalpur Airport. This temple is situated on Rewa to Satna route.

Location

Mahadeva Temple , Malwai, Madhya Pradesh

Mahadeva Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located at Malwai Village near Alirajpur City in Alirajpur Tehsil in Alirajpur District in Madhya Pradesh, India. The Temple is one of the state protected monuments in Madhya Pradesh declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

History

The temple is believed to be built in 12^th century CE by Paramara Dynasty.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east and stands over a raised platform. The temple consists of sanctum and an entrance porch. The lintel of the sanctum doorway is carved with an image of Ganesha. The door jamb is carved with seven bands of decorations. The sanctum enshrines five small Shiva Lingas made of black stone.

The original Shiva Linga once housed in the sanctum was destroyed completely. The shikara follows Bhumija style of architecture. The shikara is about 120-foot-tall and Urushringa can be seen on all the four sides of the shikara. The exterior walls are decorated with carvings of deities from Hindu pantheon, floral motifs and geometrical motifs.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 4.5 Kms from Alirajpur Bus Stand, 5 Kms from Alirajpur, 9 Kms from Alirajpur Railway Station, 11 Kms from Umrali, 158 Kms from Vadodara, 210 Kms from Indore Airport and 211 Kms from Indore. The temple is situated on Alirajpur to Umrali route.

Location

Vaidyeshvara Temple, Talakadu – The Temple

This Temple is facing towards east with an unfinished Rajagopuram (without tiers). Balipeedam, Dwajastambam and Nandi can be seen immediately after the Rajagopuram. The temple is built over raised platform. The Sanctum Sanctorum consists of Sanctum, Antarala, Ardha Mandapa, six pillared Maha Mandapa (Navaranga) and two Mukha Mandapas (one at eastern side & other at southern side).

The entrance of the Maha Mandapa is flanked by two imposing dvarapalas who, according to local folklore, seem to represent the twin Kirata brothers, Tala and Kadu. The second entrance, facing south, is probably a later addition of the 17^th century CE. Utsava (processional) deities and Nataraja can be seen in the Maha Mandapa.

The lintel at the entrance door of the sanctum has relief of Gajalakshmi. Relief of Uma Maheswara seated in Sukhasana can be seen above the Gajalakshmi relief. Ganesha and Subramanya can be seen at the entrance of the sanctum. Presiding Deity is called as Vaidyeshvara / Vaidyanathesvara and is facing east. He is housed in the sanctum in the form of Lingam.

Linga is bronze Eka Mugha Linga (single faced). The Vimana over the sanctum is of Vesara style. Mahishamardini, Brahma, Saraswathi, Surya, Vijaya Ganapthy, Gangalamoorthy, Virabhadra, Tripurantaka, Chandrasekara, Mohini, Lakshmi, Bhairava, Varadaraja, Nataraja etc. can be seen on the niches of the exterior walls.

There is a shrine for Manonmani, consort of Lord Shiva, can be seen in the north west corner of the temple complex. There is an open mandapa behind the sanctum connected to an open portico with five cells housing stone Lingas. There is an extremely rare sculpture of Ganesha riding his mouse, known as Vijaya Ganapathi, located to the right side of the Dvarapalas.

There are carvings depicting the legend of Kannappa Nayanar and Kamadhenu worshipping Lord Shiva in the temple. There is unique carving where two rings of stone latched together in the form of a snake on the right side of the temple. A beautiful chain of granite rings is sculpted at one end of the outer roof. These rings hang down from the roof, with no joints showing the workmanship of ancient artisans.

Vaidyeshvara Temple, Talakadu – History

Talakadu was known as Dalavanapura and Gajaranya in Sanskrit. Talakadu was the capital of the Gangas, who ruled present day Mysore, Mandya, Hassan, Bangalore and Kolar districts from the fourth to tenth century CE., under Gangavadi 96,000. As per an ancient record, Harivarma, an ancestor of Gangas, had been ruling from Skandapura near where the Moyar river flows into the Bhavani river (in the present-day Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu).

He moved from Skandapura to Dalavanapura (Talakadu) and made it their imperial capital. Towards the end of the 10^th century, the Chola Dynasty who were seeing a resurgence of power under Rajaraja Chola I conquered Gangavadi around the year 1000, bringing the Western Ganga dynasty to an end. After capturing Talakadu, Cholas named it as Rajarajapura after the Chola Emperor Rajaraja Chola I.

The Cholas were expelled from Talakadu nearly after 100 years by Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana. Talakadu flourished under Hoysalas and it remained under their control till 14^th century CE. Then, it passed into the hands of Vijayanagara Kingdom and Wadiyar Dynasty of Mysore. Talakadu was mysteriously submerged under sand dunes several meters deep after the rule of Wadiyar Dynasty of Mysore.

Archaeological excavations of the sand dunes at Talakadu have shown the existence of several ruined temples built during the rule of the Gangas, Cholas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagara Kingdoms and Wadiyar Dynasty of Mysore. The Sand dunes of Talakad are protected by the Karnataka state division of the ASI. This temple was built by Cholas and extensively renovated by Hoysalas, Vijayanagara Kingdom and Wadiyar Dynasty of Mysore.

The temple was heavily renovated by Madhavamandri (1350 AD), an eminent minister of the Vijayanagara King Harihara – I. The Vaidyeshvara Temple is the only one of the five Panchalinga temples in Talakad that has been fully excavated from the sand dunes. The Vaidyeshvara temple is protected as monuments of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

Pataleswara Temple, Talakadu – History

Maraleswara Temple, Talakadu – History

The temple is believed to have been built during the reign of King Rachamalla Satyavakya IV (975 CE – 986 CE). The round pillars in its Maha Mandapa and the rounded cornice on the outside of its basement and the Tamil inscription on its outer wall at the south west corner confirms that the temple was extensively renovated or even built by Cholas. The temple is protected as monument of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

Mallikarjuna Temple, Mudukuthore – Legends

Mallikarjuneswara / Mallikarjuna:

During their exile, Arjuna, one of the Pandavas, stayed here for short duration of time. He installed the Shiva Linga on top of the hill and performed pooja to the Linga with Mallika Pushpa (Jasmine flower). Hence, Lord Shiva came to be called as Mallikarjuneswara / Mallikarjuna.

Swayambhu Linga:

As per legend, once, a cow belonged to the cowherd of Mudukuthore village would empty its udder on a mound at the top of Somagiri hillock daily and yield nothing to the farmer. The cowherd was curious to know the reason and hence, followed the cow one day. He found the cow emptying its udder on the mound. He got angry and whipped the cow. Unable to bear the blow, the cow jumped and kept one of the foot on top of the mound. As a result, the Linga hidden under the mound came out. The footprint of the cow can be found on top of the Linga.

Mudukuthore:

Mudukuthore (Muduku means diversion and Thore means flow forward) means, roughly, turn and flow forward. It has been so named because the Kaveri River takes a turn here before continuing on her forward journey.

Keerthi Narayana Temple, Talakadu – History

The temple was built and consecrated on 7^th December 1117 A.D. by the famous Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana to celebrate his victory over the Cholas in the battle of Talakad as per the inscription in the temple. Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana assumed the title of Talakadugonda after this victory. It is said that Vaishnavite Acharya Ramanuja helped Vishnuvardhana in this victory.

It is also said that Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana built this temple at the behest of Vaishnava Acharya Ramanuja. The temple is considered as one of the five Vishnu temples (called as Pancha Narayana Sthalams) established by the great Vaishnavite saint Ramanuja in the 11^th century AD. As per Kannada inscriptions, Vishnuvardhana overwhelmed Adigaiman, Chola governor of Talakadu region.

Veeraganga, a general of Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana, assumed the title of Veera Ganga who conquered Thikula (Cholas were called as Thikula in Kannada). The temple is protected as monument of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India. It is the only Hoysala architecture found in Talakadu today.

Talakadu, Karnataka – Religious Significance

Panchalinga Darshana:

The five Lingas of Pataleswara, Maraleshwara, Arkeshwara, Vaidyeshvara and Mallikarjuna temples in and around Talakadu were believed to represent the five faces of Lord Shiva. These temples were collectively called as Pancha Linga Sthalams. A fair called Panchalinga Darshana is held once every 12 years in honor of these five Shiva temples. Panchalinga Darshana is usually held once in 12, 7, 5 or 3 years at Talakadu and depends on specific astrological calculation. But the 12-year cycle is broken depending on astrological calculation. The Panchalinga Darshana is held on a new moon day in the month of Karthika when two stars conjoin, the stars of Khuha Yoga and Visakha.

On this day, tradition has it that pilgrims should first bathe in the Gokarna Theertha, worship Gokarneshwara and Chandika Devi, and then worship Vaidyeshvara, and then bathe in the northern, eastern, southern, and western stretches of the Kaveri and then worship Arkeshwara, Pataleswara, Maraleshwara and Mallikarjuna, returning to Vaidyeshvara after each worship, finally worship Keerthi Narayana and conclude the pilgrimage in one day. It is said that a devotee who performs this worship of five lingas is freed of all sins and attains the fruits of the famous Aswamedha Pooja. It is believed that a darshan of the five Shiva Lingas during the special occasion helps in attaining peace and prosperity. People also undertake the darshan to fulfill their desires.

Four Streams of River Cauvery:

The river Cauvery flows in four streams in this village. It is said that Lord Shiva appeared on the northern stream as Arkeshwara and removes all the troubles of the devotee. Similarly, Lord Shiva appeared on the eastern stream as Pataleswara to Vasuki (serpent) and appears evil in five different colors. He is said to remove ill effects of poison and serpents. On the bank of southern stream, Lord Shiva appeared to Lord Brahma and Saraswathi as Maraleshwara and is said to remove the sins of even Brahmahatya (Killing of Brahmins). On the banks of western stream, he appears as Mallikarjuna and grants all the wishes of devotee. At the centre of Talakad he appeared as Vaidyanatheshwara and on account of the two hunters he became visible to all.

Pancha Narayana Kshetrams:

As per legend, Ramanujacharya moved to Karnataka to escape persecution from the Chola King. During his journey to Karnataka, he established five Vishnu temples known as Pancha Narayana Kshetrams. Keerthi Narayana Temple of Talakadu is one among them. The other four temples are Thirunarayana Temple at Melkote, Vijaya Narayana Temple at Thonnur, Veeranarayana Temple at Gadag and Chennakeshava Narayana Temple at Belur.

Mallikarjuna Temple, Mudukuthore, Karnataka

Mallikarjuna Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Mudukuthore village near Talakadu Town in Mysuru District in Karnataka, India. Presiding Deity is called as Lord Mallikarjuna and Mother is called as Bhramarambhika. The Temple is situated on top of the Somagiri hillock. This Temple is considered as one of the Pancha Linga Sthalams of Talakadu. This temple is situated on the banks of Cauvery river. Mudukuthore is also called as Thirumalakudu Bettahalli (T. Bettahalli).

Legends

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/mallikarjuna-temple-mudukuthore-legends.html

The Temple

This Temple is situated on top of 200 feet tall Somagiri Hill. The temple can be reached after climbing 100 steps. There is a motorable road where vehicles can go up to half the way. There is an entrance arch at the foot hills at the entrance of steps. The entrance arch has stucco images of Rishabaroodar flanked by Vinayaga and Subramanya. This temple is facing towards east with three tiered Rajagopuram.

Stucco images of Nandi and Lion can be seen on each side before Rajagopuram. Dhwaja Sthambam, Nandi and Balipeedam can be seen immediately after Rajagopuram facing the sanctum. The Sanctum Sanctorum consists of Sanctum, Ardha Mandapam and Maha Mandapam. Presiding Deity is called as Lord Mallikarjuna and is facing east. He is housed in the sanctum in the form of Lingam.

The Linga is said to have foot imprints of cow. Mother is called as Bhramarambhika. She is housed in a separate east facing shrine behind the sanctum. There are shrines for Utsava idols, Vinayaga, Subramanya and Bhairava in the temple premises. Bettali Maramma Temple can be reached through a small pathway near the temple.

Festivals

During January – February, a big festival for a week will be organized where selling of cattle and other items required for agriculture take place.

Religious Significance

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/talakadu-karnataka-religious-significance.html

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 750 meters from Mudukuthore Bus Stop, 5 Kms from Talakadu, 6 Kms from Sargur, 12 Kms from Belakavadi, 18 Kms from Kollegal, 20 Kms from Tirumakudalu Narasipura, 27 Kms from Somanathapura, 53 Kms from Mysuru, 54 Kms from Mysuru Junction Railway Station, 59 Kms from Mysuru Airport and 125 Kms from Bengaluru. Devotees need to travel in Tirumakudalu Narasipura to Belakavadi route, then take a left turn at Talakadu and travel in Talakadu to Sargur route for about 5 Kms to reach this temple. Regular Buses are available from Somanathapura to reach this temple.

Location

Arkeshwara Temple, Talakadu, Karnataka

Arkeshwara Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Vijayapura, an outskirt of Talakadu Town in Mysuru District in Karnataka, India. This Temple is considered as one of the Pancha Linga Sthalams of Talakadu. This temple is situated on the banks of Cauvery river. This temple is protected as monuments of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

Legends

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/talakadu-karnataka-legends.html

History

The was believed to be built during Kulothunga Chola I and had been extensively renovated by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar III, the king of the princely state of Mysore, during the British Raj in India. The temple is protected as monument of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

The Temple

This Temple is facing towards east, but the entrance is from the southern side. Nandi and Balipeedam can be found facing the sanctum. The Sanctum Sanctorum consists of Sanctum, Ardha Mandapam and Maha Mandapam. Presiding Deity is called as Arkeshwara and is facing east. He is housed in the sanctum in the form of Lingam. There is a Vaastu Yantram attached to a rock at the entrance of the temple. There is a strange belief that cows suffering from any disease can be cured if tied to that rock. There are shrines for Durga, Bhairavar and Abhayangara Lingam in the temple premises.

Festivals

Rathasaptami is celebrated in this temple with much fanfare.

Religious Significance

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/talakadu-karnataka-religious-significance.html

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 6 Kms from Talakadu Bus Stand, 11 Kms from Kollegal, 13 Kms from Belakavadi, 21 Kms from Tirumakudalu Narasipura, 30 Kms from Somanathapura, 54 Kms from Mysuru, 55 Kms from Mysuru Junction Railway Station, 60 Kms from Mysuru Airport and 134 Kms from Bengaluru. The Temple is situated on Tirumakudalu Narasipura to Belakavadi route.

Location

Pataleswara Temple, Talakadu, Karnataka

Pataleswara Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Talakadu Town in Mysuru District in Karnataka, India. This Temple is considered as one of the Pancha Linga Sthalams of Talakadu. This temple is situated on the banks of Cauvery river. This temple is protected as monuments of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

Legends

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/talakadu-karnataka-legends.html

History

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/pataleswara-temple-talakadu-history.html

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east. It is situated 20 feet below the ground level surrounded by sand dunes. The temple is surrounded by a boundary wall to protect it from the surrounding sand dunes. The Sanctum Sanctorum consists of Sanctum, Ardha Mandapam and Maha Mandapam. The Sanctum and Ardha Mandapam were from Ganga period. The pillars of the manḍapas are angular at the base and octagonal at the shaft, a common feature in Ganga style. Presiding Deity is called as Pataleswara / Vasukiswara and is facing east. He is housed in the sanctum in the form of Lingam.

The unique thing about this Linga is that it changes colors. It changes to red at dawn, turns to black in the afternoon and changes to white during night. The sanctum contains a Chola inscription in its wall. It might have been inscribed after the victory over the Gangas. Sculptures of Dakshinamurthy, Brahma, Vishnu Simhavahini Durga and Bhairava of Ganga period can be seen in the Maha Mandapa. There are few Lingas and sculptures dating to Ganga era can be found beneath a tree in the temple premises.

Temple Opening Time

The temple remains open from 08.00 a.m in the morning till 06.30 p.m in the evening.

Religious Significance

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/talakadu-karnataka-religious-significance.html

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 2 Kms from Talakadu Bus Stand, 17 Kms from Kollegal, 17 Kms from Tirumakudalu Narasipura, 19 Kms from Belakavadi, 27 Kms from Somanathapura, 50 Kms from Mysuru, 51 Kms from Mysuru Junction Railway Station, 56 Kms from Mysuru Airport and 133 Kms from Bengaluru. Talakadu is situated on Tirumakudalu Narasipura to Belakavadi route.

Location

Tuesday, February 1, 2022

Pataleswara Temple, Talakadu, Karnataka

Pataleswara Temple, Talakadu, Karnataka

Legends

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/talakadu-karnataka-legends.html

History

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/pataleswara-temple-talakadu-history.html

The Temple

Temple Opening Time

The temple remains open from 08.00 a.m in the morning till 06.30 p.m in the evening.

Religious Significance

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/talakadu-karnataka-religious-significance.html

Connectivity

Location

Ilamurugan, Pondicherry Mail us: ila_murugan2003@yahoo.co.in

Talakadu, Karnataka – Legends

Talakadu:

As per legend, a sage named Soma Datta from Kashi performed penance on Lord Shiva for salvation. Lord Shiva directed him to go to Siddharanya Kshetra and continue with the penance. Sage Soma Datta came to Siddharanya Kshetra along with his disciples and started his penance. One day, Sage and his disciples were attacked and killed by a herd of wild elephants while they were performing penance. It is believed that they were reborn as elephants in the same forest and carried out their daily rituals to a cotton tree.

Once, two Kirata twin brothers, Tala and Kadu, observed this strange incident of elephants worshipping a cotton tree. Out of curiosity, the brothers cut down the tree and found the tree was bleeding like humans. Suddenly, a divine voice instructed them to heal the wound by applying the tree leaves on the chopped portion of the tree. They did it as instructed and, surprisingly, the blood had turned milk.

Lord Shiva provided salvation to the hunter brothers and elephants. As Lord Shiva, in the form of a tree, healed himself with the tree leaves, he came to be called as Vaidyanatha / Vaideeshwara. The place was named as Talakadu after the Kirata twin brothers Tala and Kadu. Two stone idols of the twin brothers can be seen in front of Veerabhadraswamy temple.

Curse of Talakadu:

Tirumala Raja, called as Sri Ranga Raya, the representative of the Vijayanagara Kingdom at Srirangapatna was afflicted with an incurable disease. He visited Talakadu and worshipped Lord Vaidyeshvara to get relief from the disease. Before leaving to Talakadu, he made his second wife Alamelamma as in charge of the Government of Srirangapatna. His condition got deteriorated in Talakadu and was in death bed. On hearing the news, she left for Talakadu to see him before his death. Hence, she handed over the rule of Srirangapatna to the Wodeyar King of Mysore.

The treacherous Wodeyar King took the control of Srirangapatna for himself. He also wanted the royal jewels of Queen Alamelamma as he could not find the jewels in the palace. He ordered an army to follow the queen and seize the royal jewels from her. On learning the developments happened in Srirangapatna, Queen Alamelamma went to the banks of the Cauvery, threw the jewels into the river and drowned herself opposite Malangi. Before she drown, she uttered a three-fold curse.

The following is the curse of Talakadu;

Talakadu Maralaagi.
Malingi Maduvaagi
Mysuru Dhorege Makkalagade Hogali

English Translation;

Let Talakadu become sand

Let Malangi become a whirlpool

Let the Mysore Kings fail to beget heirs

As per this curse, Talakadu, an ancient city, is now being submerged under sand dunes several meters deep and the Mysore royal family have faced a problem of having a rightful heir to the throne since 17^th century.

Vishnuvardhana:

Vishnuvardhana (1108 – 1152 CE) was a king of the Hoysala Empire. He ascended the Hoysala throne after the death of his elder brother Veera Ballala I in 1108 CE. He was originally a follower of Jainism and known as Bitti Deva. His daughter was suffering from an unknown illness. The best physicians from his kingdom could not able to cure her illness. During this time, he heard about the divine powers of Vaishnavite Acharya Ramanuja and went to Thondanur, where Ramanuja was staying.

Ramanuja instructed the King to take his daughter to a huge lake known as Pancha Apsara Thadaka. Further, he requested his daughter to take bath in the lake and worship Lord Vishnu of Thondanur sincerely. As instructed, she did and went to the temple for the prayers. The priest of the temple placed the Dhanda of Narasimha on King’s daughter and to the surprise of the king, her illness was cured immediately.

One can notice Yoga Narasimha holding this magical Dhanda in his right hand at the Thondanur Yoga Narasimha temple. After this incident, he came under the influence of the Hindu philosopher Ramanujacharya, converted to Hindu Vaishnavism and took the name Vishnuvardhana. Vishnuvardhana supported Ramanuja in building the Keerthi Narayana Temple in Talakadu.

Indra got relief from Brahmmahathi Dosha here:

As per legend, Indra was afflicted with Brahmmahathi Dosha due to the war with Asuras. He performed penance on Lord Vishnu for relief from the dosha. Lord Vishnu directed him to install five Narayana idols in Talakadu area for relief. As instructed, Indra installed the idols and got relief from the dosha.

Pancha Narayana Kshetrams:

Maraleshwara:

As per legend, it is believed that the Shiva Linga in Maraleshwara temple was installed and worshipped by Lord Brahma.

Vedanta Desikar visit to Keerthi Narayana Temple of Talakadu:

It is believed that Vedanta Desikar is said to have visited Keerthi Narayana Temple of Talakadu during his trip to Karnataka.

Lord Rama stay in Talakadu:

As per legend, Lord Rama stayed in Talakadu for a shorter period of time during his expedition to Srilanka.

Vaidyeshvara Temple, Talakadu, Karnataka

Vaidyeshvara Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Talakadu Town in Mysuru District in Karnataka, India. Presiding Deity is called as Vaidyeshvara / Vaidyanathesvara and Mother is called as Manonmani. This Temple is considered as one of the Pancha Linga Sthalams of Talakadu. This Temple is the only one of the five Panchalinga temples in Talakad that has been fully excavated from the sand dunes. This temple is situated on the banks of Cauvery river. This temple is protected as monuments of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

Legends

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/talakadu-karnataka-legends.html

History

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/vaidyeshvara-temple-talakadu-history.html

The Temple

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/vaidyeshvara-temple-talakadu-temple.html

Temple Opening Time

The temple remains open from 08.00 a.m in the morning till 06.30 p.m in the evening.

Religious Significance

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/talakadu-karnataka-religious-significance.html

Connectivity

Location

Maraleswara Temple, Talakadu, Karnataka

Maraleswara Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Talakadu Town in Mysuru District in Karnataka, India. This Temple is considered as one of the Pancha Linga Sthalams of Talakadu. This temple is situated on the banks of Cauvery river. This temple is protected as monuments of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

Legends

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/talakadu-karnataka-legends.html

History

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/maraleswara-temple-talakadu-history.html

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east. It is situated 20 feet below the ground level surrounded by sand dunes. The temple is surrounded by a boundary wall to protect it from the surrounding sand dunes. One has to climb down series of steps to reach this temple. The Sanctum Sanctorum consists of Sanctum, Ardha Mandapam and Maha Mandapam.

The Sanctum and Ardha Mandapam were from Ganga period. The pillars of the manḍapas are angular at the base and octagonal at the shaft, a common feature in Ganga style. Presiding Deity is called as Maraleswara / Maruleswara / Saikateswara (Saikada Shila means Sand Stone & Maralu means Sand in Kannada) and is facing east.

He is housed in the sanctum in the form of Lingam. Lingam is made of sand stone. There are idols of Maheshwara, Vishnu, Surya, Ganesha, Bikshadana, Subramanya, Durga, Veerabhadra, Ambika and Navagrahas in the Maha Mandapa. Hero Stone, Half buried idols and a Theertha well can be seen in the temple premises.

Temple Opening Time

The temple remains open from 08.00 a.m in the morning till 06.30 p.m in the evening.

Religious Significance

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/talakadu-karnataka-religious-significance.html

Connectivity

Location

Keerthi Narayana Temple, Talakadu, Karnataka

Keerthi Narayana Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in Talakadu Town in Mysuru District in Karnataka, India. Presiding Deity is called as Keerthi Narayana and Mother is called as Sundaravalli. It is the only Hoysala architecture found in Talakadu today. This temple is situated on the banks of Cauvery river. This temple is protected as monuments of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

Legends

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/talakadu-karnataka-legends.html

History

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/keerthi-narayana-temple-talakadu-history.html

The Temple

This Temple is facing towards east with Rajagopuram. Only the base of the Rajagopuram survived, the super structure over the Rajagopuram has not survived the test of the time. Balipeedam can be seen facing the sanctum before the Rajagopuram. The temple is a granite, single vimana plan (tower over shrine), an ekakuta (single shrine) construction, with an open mandapa (hall). The temple is similar in plan to the famous Chennakesava Temple at Belur.

The temple has a typical stellate (star-shaped) plan with the Sanctum, Ardha Mandapam and open hall (navaranga) with three entrances mounted on a platform called jagati. The navaranga is spacious, has lathe turned pillars and ceiling adorned by creeper scrolls, lotuses and other floral designs. The pillars of Navaranga has the sculptures of Ramanuja, Nammazhvar and Vedhandha Desikar and Ugra Narasimha.

Sculpture of Ugra Narasimha can be seen in the pillar of Ardha mandapa. The entrance to the sanctum, the doorjamb and lintel are ornate. Presiding Deity is called as Keerthi Narayana and is housed in an east facing sanctum. He is about 8 feet tall. He is seen holding shankha (conch) in upper left hand, Chakra in upper right hand, lotus in his lower left hand and mace in his lower right hand.

He stands in samabhanga posture on a lotus pedestal. Utsava idol is Lord Vishnu with his consorts Sridevi and Bhoodevi. He is also housed in the sanctum in front of the presiding deity. Mother is called as Sundaravalli. Her idol is kept in Navaranga. Chola era Tamil inscriptions can be seen on the pedestal and pillars of Navaranga.

Temple Opening Time

The temple remains open from 08.00 a.m in the morning till 06.30 p.m in the evening.

Festivals

Ratha Saptami and Karthigai are celebrated in this temple with much fanfare.

Religious Significance

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/02/talakadu-karnataka-religious-significance.html

Contact

Keerthi Narayana Temple,

Talakadu – 571 122

Mysuru District

Karnataka, India

Mobile: +91 99006 31011

Connectivity

Location

Monday, March 17, 2025

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