Index of Contents
- Introduction
- Google Maps of Implemented Program Day 1 & 2
- DAY 1
- DAY 2
- Yoga Narasimha Temple, Melkote
- Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple, Melukote
- Aadhi Madhavaraya Swamy Temple, Bellur
- Beteraya Swamy Temple, Turuvekere
- Gangadhareshwara Temple, Turuvekere
- Yoga Madhava Temple, Settikere
- Sampige Srinivasa Temple
- Lakshmi Janardhana Temple, Kadaba Amanikere
- Yoga Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple , Devarayana Durga
- Bhoga Narasimha Swamy Temple Devarayana Durga
1. Introduction
Temples of Karnataka feature many architectural styles :Hoysala Architecture Badami Chalukya Architecture , Vijayanagara architecture , Dravidian Architecture ,Western Chalukya Architecture ,Badami Cave Temples ,Rashtrakuta style and Ganga Architecture .Some of the Important Coastal Karnataka Temples have been covered in my previous Blogs : Part 1 of 4 – Muktistalas of Karnataka and famous Mahaganapathy Temples Part 2 of 4 – Seven Shaktikendras of Karnataka and Durga Parameshwari Temples Part 3 of 4 – Pancha linga Kshetras and Mahalingeshwara temples Part 4 of 4 – Subhramanya and Vishnu Temples There are several temples near Bangalore that could be visited over a weekend. See blog Ancient temples near Bangalore – Weekend getaways 1 1on some of the temples we had darshan over a long weekend (15 Oct 2021 to 17th Oct 2021 – 3 days) . Please also see my blog on Ancient temples near Bangalore – Weekend getaways 2 over the weekend 27-02-201 to 28-02-2010 covering Panchalinga Kshetras of Talakau, Hoysala temples of Somanathapura ,Basaralu etc. Also see my blog Ancient temples near Bangalore – Kolar – Weekend getaways 3 covering the temples we had darshan over a weekend 06-01-2009 (one day) – Trip to Kolar and surrounding temples. This blog covers the temples we had darshan over a weekend 24-01-2009 & 25-01-2009 (Two days)
Google Map of Implemented Program – Day 1
Google Map of Implemented Program – Day 2
3.1 Soumyakeshava Swamy Temple , Nagamangala
Sri Soumyakeshava Swamy Temple , Nagamangala, Karnataka 571432 Sri Soumyakeshava Swamy Temple is located at Nagamangala, Karnataka at a distance of 120 kms from Bangalore and 60 kms from Mysore.. The temple was constructed in the 12th century by the rulers of the Hoysala empire. Nagamangala is a town in the Mandya district of Karnataka state, .
Lord Maha Vishnu is the main deity of the temple, giving darshan as Sri Sowmya Kesava Swamy. The temple is well known for Rahu-Ketu parihara pooja. It is one of the ancient temples with attractive architectural stone works.
Historically, Nagamangala came into prominence during the rule of Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana when it became an important center of Vaishnava faith and received patronage from one of his queens, Bommaladevi. During the rule of Veera Ballala II, Nagamangala prospered as an agrahara (place of Hindu religious studies) and had the honorific Vira Ballala Chaturvedi Bhattaratnakara. The temple is protected as a monument of national importance by the Archaeological Survey of India.
The basic plan of the shrine (mulaprasada) is stellate (star shaped). It stands on a platform called jagati and is constructed with Soap stone material. which is a Hoysala innovation. Overall, the temple exhibits the nagara features (northern Indian influence) seen in a few other Hoysala temples such as in the Sadasiva Temple, Nuggehalli. Nagara features are seldom seen in Hoysala temples. The temple is a large structure and has received patronage by multiple dynasties and reveals features of the later day Vijayanagara empire whose rulers added the entrance and tower over it (mahadvara) and bounding walls (prakara). Some post-Vijayanagara features are also visible. The tower over the entrance (gopuram) is a 7-story tall lime and brick structure that is adorned by Hindu gods, goddesses and other decorative structures in stucco.
The central mandapam in front of the main deity Sannidhi has an intricately carved stone structure. In that, we can see Adhiseshan engraved in the middle of the structure. Around that Adhiseshan 108 conches (Shanku) are engraved. Head of the Adhiseshan is believed as Rahu and tail are believed as Ketu. Those who wants to do Rahu-Ketu parihara pooja are asked to stand beneath the Adhiseshan. There some parihara poojas are performed by the priest. This parihara pooja is believed to overcome problems like Santana Bhagya, mental illness, delay in marriage and overall wellbeing of a person.
The temple has three shrines (Trikutachala), has a Garbhagriha (sanctum) – one faces the main deity Sri Soumyakeshava Swamy – to the right is Sri Narasimha swamy and to the left is Lord Lord Krishna With Rukmani & Sathyabhama. There is a Vestibule (Antarala) that connects the sanctum to the closed mandapa (inner hall, Navaranga) which opens into a large pillared gathering hall (Maha mandapa). The closed hall has two lateral shrines, one in the north and the other in the south. To the east, the large hall opens onto the platform that is meant for clockwise circumambulation by devotees since the inside of the temple does not provide any such feature. On the platform, the base of the temple consists of moldings that take the stellate form of sanctum but become staggered square at the maha mandapa. The outer wall of the shrine and the large hall are single pilastered turreted walls. The tower over the shrine (Shikhara) is plain without the typical ornamentation giving the temple as a whole an austere look. The temple gets its name from the “serene” (lit, “Saumya”) six feet tall idol of Lord Keshava, a form of the Hindu god Maha Vishnu that stands on a garuda (eagle) pedestal. The roof of the close mandapa is supported by lathe turned pillars, a standard feature in Hoysala constructions. These pillars divide the ceiling into “bays” (four central pillars create 9 bays in the closed hall) that are exceptionally well treated. To Return to Index of Contents, Click Here. Otherwise Continue
3.2 Chennakeshava Swamy Temple, Bindiganavile
Sri Chennakeshava Swamy Temple, ChannaKeshava temple street, Bindiganavile, Karnataka 571802 Sri Chennakeshava Swamy Temple is located at Bindiganavile, Karnataka at a distance of 130 kms from Bangalorfe.
Bindinganavile is also referred to as Mayurapuri, owing to the large number of peacocks that can still be found there in the early morning fields. Bindinganavile also is home to a big and beautiful lake called Garuda Tataka, which is said to be a part of the VeeraVaishnavi River. Apart from the beautiful and intricately carved idols of the lords such as Channakeshava, the temple premises also have a small shrine devoted to Udbhava Aanjaneya, where Rama, Sita and Laxmana’s idols are installed. A Shiva temple located in the premises dates back to six hundred years ago, and has not only the Shiva Linga, but also Parvathi, Subramanya, Ganesha, Srinivasa and Navagraha.
Shri Prasanna Channakeshava Temple has been in existence for about 1000+ years. It dates back to Hoysala period. It’s said that Acharya Ramanuja during his stay in Tondanoor & Melokote while travelling to Belurused to rest in Bindiganavileon the way. With his influence Bindiganavile became an Agrahara of Sri Vaishnavas as many Sri Vaishanvas were living at Bindiganavile.
Originally this place was called Dindiganavile. Dindiga was a kind of plant with thorns and there were plenty of Peacocks (Navilu) in the sugarcane fields. Slowly Dindiga got replaced with Bindiga which means hillocks as there are many small hillocks in and around Dinganavile and became Bindiganavile. Bindiganavile was also called as Mayurapuri as even today one can get to see Peacocks in the early mornings in the fields. Bindiganavile has a big lake and is called Garuda Tataka and it is said is a part of VeeraVaishnavi River.
It’s an ancient temple with Lord Channakeshava and Thayar sannidhi’s and it’s interesting to know how Vynatheya’sSannidi came in to existence and how Vynatheya became an Archamoorthy.
Belur Channakeshava Temple ordered a wooden Garuda Vahana (vehicle) in an area called Kanchipuram. While the people transported the Vehicle from Kanchipuram to Belur, they often rested at night in the premises of temples. Thus, when they arrived at Bindiganavile at dusk, they decided to rest awhile. That fateful night, the leader of the team had a rather unusual dream. In the dream the Garuda that they transported said that they are now in Keshava’s Sannidhi and I would like to stay here and serve the lord In the dawn that followed, he told this to his fellowmen, but none of them paid much heed to what they thought was just another dream.
They readied themselves to resume in the morning. But astonishingly, none could move the Garuda Vahana! As they struggled to move the Vahana, Palegara of the area came in search of this temple and claimed that he also had a dream that was very similar. In his dream, Garuda made the bhakt arrange for services in the temple premises so that he could be settled and daily pooja can be performed. Eversince, Vynatheya became the Archamoorthy in this temple. In other temples however, one can see Garuda as a Vahana and in Dwajastambha.
This place became a significant Sri Vaishnava pilgrim center, as Garuda resided in this temple by his own will. Upto this very day, thousands of pilgrims from across the world visit to watch the astonishing Vahana and have the blessings of the Garuda.
As the days passed since it was a wooden vigraha, it got covered with Anthill and serpents started to live in it. People used to prey to the anthill itself and were afraid of going near as serpents were living there.
In the year 1931 the then Bangalore Municipal Chairman Rao Bahadur Sri.B K Garudachar who was from Bindiganavile had a dream in which Garuda said that his body is completely eaten by the ants and other creatures in Bindiganavile, ordered him to make a new vigraha. He immediately contacts the sculptures and started the project for which he bought huge Sandalwood and gave to the sculptures and asked them to carve Garuda. But sculptures could not start the work as they did not know how Garuda looked like and were afraid to chisel the wood. Again the Chief of this team had a dream where Garuda asked him to start the work next morning and when he went near the wood there was a profile on the wood and they started the work,the outcome of which is what we see today in the temple beautiful vigraha of Garuda and with the left out wood they also carved Aanjaneya.
Another interesting contribution by the Mandali is installing Kalyana Vynatheya along with Rudra and Sukeerthi Chara (Utsava) vigrahas, which can be seen only in this temple and nowhere else in the world There are several festivals celebrated in the temple, that include the Annual Rathotsavam, which is also called as the Maghashuddha Chaturdashi.
Temple Timings: 8AM to 12 noon –5.30PM to 8PM ; Contact : Sri.K V Raghavan : +91 94483 97805 Sri.N.R.Arun Kumar: +91 98440 14259 Sri.Narayanaswamy : +91 94490 72906
3.3 Mallikarjuna Temple of Hoysala Dynasty, Basaralu
Shri Mallikarjuna Temple of Hoysala Dynasty, Basaralu, Karnataka 571416 Shri Mallikarjuna Temple of Hoysala Dynasty is located at Basaralu, Karnataka, close to Nagamangala , 65 km from Mysore. The temple was built by Harihara Dhannayaka around 1234 A.D. during the rule of the Hoysala Empire King Vira Narasimha II. This temple is protected as a monument of national importance by the Archaeological Survey of India.
There are two temples in the complex- the Chandikeshwara temple and the famous Mallikarjuna Temple, both dedicated to Lord Shiva. Though, in small in size, every part of the temple is richly decorative; it is simply splendor and beauty frozen in stone – a mere exposition of the architectural grandeur of the Hoysala rulers. The entrance doorway of the porch is flanked by two fine elephants with animated appearance.
The temple is highly ornate example of Hoysala architecture. The temple stands on a platform called jagati, a feature common to many Hoysala temples. The temple plan is that of a trikuta (three shrined), though only the middle one has a tower or shikhara. The three shrines are connected by a common hall. The lateral shrines are connected directly to the hall while the middle shrine has a vestibule that connects the sanctum to the hall. The cella in the central shrine has a linga while the lateral shrines contain an image of surya and a pair of nagas.
The temple is a three shrined plan. All the three shrines here are internally allied by a mantapa. Only the central shrine has a tower on the top which makes it easily visible from the outside. The adjacent shrines do not have a tower and are internally linked to the hall, although it is not clearly visible from the outside.
Hoysala temples use a platform called jagati, on which this temple stands. This platform provides a path to the devotees to walk and also adds visual appeal. The top of the temple has an emblem of a Sala killing a lion which is a part of the Hoysala architecture. At the bottom of the temple lies six pattikas, which show war elephants, horse riders, scenes from Ramayana, Mahabharata and Bhagvata and swans at the last.
Apart from the Mallikarjuna Temple, there is the Chandikeshwara temple that is of prominent importance in the Hoysala architecture. There is a Bhairavi sculpture lying at the center of the temple. One of the most notable sculptures in the temple is the sculpture of the sixteen headed Shiva who is shown dancing on the head of a demon.
Apart from the sculpture of Shiva, there are twenty-two dancing images armed Saraswati and Durga, the image of Arjuna, Draupadi, Ravana and many more. There is a 20 foot pillar right across the temple. The Ardha Mandap has a ceiling which is intricately carved and has carvings of the Agni, Yama, Kubera, Vayu, Varuna, Ishana, Indira and Nirurti.
3.4 Yoga Narasimha Swamy Temple, kere thonnur
Yoga Narasimha Swamy Temple, kere thonnur, pandavapura Tq, Karnataka 571434 (Thodanur) (Also called as Ramanujar temple) Yoga Narasimha Swamy Temple is located at kere thonnur, (Thodanur) pandavapura , Karnataka at a distance of 150 kms from Bangalore..Since Sri Ramanujar idol is installed here, it is also called as Ramanujar temple. Moolavar : Yoga Narasimha East facing Sitting Posture
Thondanur or more familiarly known as ‘Kere Thonnur’ is an abhimana sthalam. There are 3 temples in thondanur, all close together – Sri Nambinarayana, Sri Parthasarathy and Sri Narasimha/Sri Ramanuja temples.There is Padma theertham or Ramanuja theertham near the temples. Acharya Sri Ramanujacharya took refuge here in the 11th Century when he fled from the King, Krimikanta Raja. It is from here that Sri Yathiraja continued propagating Sri Vishista Advaitha Siddantha.
Yoga Narasimha Perumal temple is just North of the Nambi Narayana Temple in Thondanur, one whose idol is believed to have been installed by Prahalada in the Kretha Yuga. Hence, the idol here is said to date back about 5500years. One has to climb about 15steps to reach the temple. This temple is seen as a special Abhimana Sthalam of Ramanuja. After his exile from Srirangam, Ramanuja came first, here to Thondanur, before proceeding to Melkote.
Here at Thondanur, Ramanuja’s disciple Thondanur Nambi, who also built the famous Thonnur kere (the huge dam North of this temple) brought the Hoysala King Bitta Deva and his daughter to Ramanuja.
The King’s daughter had been afflicted with Brahma Rakshasha and was not in a proper state of mind. Ramanuja directed the king to take his daughter to the huge Eri (Sarovar) known as ‘Pancha Apsara Thataka’. He asked the king’s daughter to bathe there and then invoke the blessings of Yoga Narasimha at the temple South of the dam. At the temple, the Archaka placed the Narasimha Dhanda on the daughter and to the king’s surprise she was instantly liberated from the illness. To this day, one sees Yoga Narasimha holding this magical Dhanda in his right hand.
Belief is that Lord Yoga Narasimha fulfils all the prayers of the devotees here at this temple. Once fulfilled, the devotees present a 10×6 Veshti to Yoga Narasimha and an Orange Veshti to Ramanuja at this temple as a thanks giving gesture.
When asked what he wanted, Ramanuja informed the king that he was here to propagate Vishistaadvaitha and that he would like the King to convert to a Vaishnavite. Bitta Deva, much against the wishes of his people, became a Vaishnavite and changed his name to Vishnu Vardhan reasoning out to his people that in this Kali Yuga, Ramanuja was the avathara of Sesha (similar to how Lakshmana was in the Tretha Yuga).
An unhappy lot, the 1000 Jains of Thondanur wanted to confront Ramanuja in a debate. Outside the Yoga Narasimha Temple, after Ramanuja invoked the blessings of the Lord, he was thrown 1000 questions by the people of the kingdom. And in one go Ramanuja hit back at them with 1000 answers much to the delight of the people. Pleased with his answers, the Jains converted to Vaishnavism.
Moving from Thondanur, he later built/renovated the temples at Melkote, Gadag, Belur and Thalakkad. He also renovated the Amara Narayana temple at Eka Chakra Puram in Kaivara, a temple that relates to the legend of Hidumba Samhara.
When the time had come for him to leave for Srirangam, the people of Thondanur, who had become fond of him, requested him to stay back here.He told them that he would have to leave but would leave his powers here and installed his own idol here at Yoga Narasimha temple with Vaikanasa Agama Sastras and is seen even today in the Sarpa Roopa form.
While in Melkote, he has an Abhimana status, in Srirangam he is seen in ‘Shareeram’ (body form) and in a Sthoola Roopam (Athma form) at Sriperambadur. Here in Thondanur at the Yoga Narasimha temple on the banks of the Thonnur Eri, Ramanuja is seen in a Sookshma Roopam (Atom) with conch and chakra. A box used by Ramanuja in the 12th Century AD is still seen inside the temple.
This temple too like the Lakshmi Narayana temple in Thondanur has a Chola Style Architecture but was built / renovated by Hoysala Kings. Hence there is no Raja Gopuram at the entrance. A couple of 12th Century AD inscriptions at the temple refer to the assignment of 7ma of 30Kuli of taxable land to Lakshmi Narayana by the priests of Yoga Narasimha temple of Yadava Narayana Chaturvedi Mangalam.
Festivals conducted are : Narasimha Jayanthi, Ramanuja Utsavam and Swathi Thirumanjanam. Temple Timings are : 930am-530pm Contact R Raghurama Bhattar @ 08236 251795
3.5 Nambinarayana swamy Temple, Thondanoor
Sri Nambinarayana swamy Temple, Thondanoor, Karnataka 571434 Sri Nambinarayana swamy Temple is located at Thondanoor, Karnataka at a distance of 160 kms from Bangalore.
Thondanur or more familiarly known as ‘Kere Thonnur’ is an abhimana sthalam. There are 3 temples in thondanur, all close together – Sri Nambinarayana, Sri Parthasarathy and Sri Narasimha/Sri Ramanuja temples.There is Padma theertham or Ramanuja theertham near the temples. Acharya Sri Ramanujacharya took refuge here in the 11th Century when he fled from the King, Krimikanta Raja. It is from here that Sri Yathiraja continued propagating Sri Vishista Advaitha Siddantha.
During that time, Thennur was ruled by a Jain King Bittideva. His daughter, possessed by a ghost (Brahma Rakshasa), was in an uncontrollable state. Many people including Jain priests, tried their hands but in vain. Thennur Nambi, took the king to Sri Ramanujacharya. Acharya asked the king’s daughter to take a dip at the nearby Lake (Pancha Apsara Thataka) and visit the Yoga Narasimha Temple at the hill top. Following Acharya’s instructions, King, took his daughter to the Yoga Narasimha Temple, where the priest placed a Narasimha Dandam (Stick held by Lord Narasimha in His right hand) on top of her head, which cured her completely.
Elated King, moved by the philosophy of Vishishtadvaitam, taught by Sri Ramanujacharya, embraced Vaishnavisam. Sri Ramanujacharya renamed him as Vishnu Vardana. Later on Vishnuvardana donated Srirangapatna village to Sri Ramanujacharya. Vishnu Vardhana had established many temples at the behest of Sri Ramanujacharya, who himself consecrated them. Famous among them are the Pancha Narayana temples at Karnataka. 1) Sri Nambi Narayana Temple – Thondanur/ Thennur. 2) Sri Thiru Narayana Temple – Melkote.3) Sri Keerthi Narayana Temple – Thalakadu. 4) Sri Vijaya Narayana (Chenna keshava) – Belur. 5) Sri Veera Narayana – Gadag.
Thennur Nambi, was instrumental in building a dam (Kere) across the river at Thennur. Hence this place is called Kere Thennur. Thennur was considered as the second capital during Hoysala rule. Inspired by the devotion of Thennur Nambi, Lord Narayana is said to have manifested Himself at Thennur, hence the name, Sri Nambi Narayana. The idol of Sri Nambi Narayana is 18 feet tall holding Shanku in His right and Chakra in His left. Position of Shanku and Chakra appears to be interchanged.
According to a temple inscription, Suragi Nagaiah, one of Vishnuvardhana’s generals, is credited with building the temple in the 12th century, to commemorate the king’s victory over the Cholas at Talakad. The absence of the Raja Gopura or entrance tower is a pointer to Hoysala style of temple building. The outer walls of the temple and the entire inner circumambulatory area display a solid base and a strong structure. Ramanujacharya, it is supposed, renovated the temple, made additions to it in the form the mantapas and also consecrated the idol.
The temple as it stands today, consists of a navaranga, a maharanga mantapa, an ardha mantapa, a sukanasi, a garbha griha and a massive paataalankana. The pillars in the navaranga are embellished with motifs of flowers and beads, besides the carvings of ashtadikpalakas. The vimana or tower of the shrine is built of mortar, in Dravidian style. While the maharanga mantapa looks grand in simplicity, held aloft by 50 pillars, the paataalankana with its 40 octagonal-faced pillars. is eye-catching. The 45-feet garuda sthambha, the characteristic feature of all Vishnu temples, lies in front of the paataalankana.
The garbha griha is adorned with a tall east-facing idol of Nambi Narayana, the presiding deity. With conch in the right hand and discus in the left hand, he stands resplendent in all finery. The processional deity is Lakshmi Narayana with his consorts Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi. One of the main festivals celebrated by the temple is the five-day brahmotsava between April-May every year
3.6 Gopalakrishna swamy Temple , Thondanoor
Sri Gopalakrishna swamy Temple , Unnamed Road, Thondanoor, Karnataka 571434 (Venugopalaswamy temple / Parthsarathy Swamy temple) Sri Gopalakrishna swamy Temple (Venugopalaswamy temple / Parthsarathy Swamy temple) is located at Thondanoor, Karnataka at a distance of 160 kms from Bangalore.
Thondanur or more familiarly known as ‘Kere Thonnur’ is an abhimana sthalam. There are 3 temples in thondanur, all close together – Sri Nambinarayana, Sri Parthasarathy and Sri Narasimha/Sri Ramanuja temples.There is Padma theertham or Ramanuja theertham near the temples. Acharya Sri Ramanujacharya took refuge here in the 11th Century when he fled from the King, Krimikanta Raja. It is from here that Sri Yathiraja continued propagating Sri Vishista Advaitha Siddantha.
This temple opposite to Nambi Narayana temple is Venugopalaswamy. Looking at the name, our assumption, that the presiding deity would be Lord Krishna ( with a flute – Venu) turned out to be false. The presiding deity was Lord Parthasarathy, along with Sridevi and Bhodevi, all in sitting posture (He is also referred to as Veettrirunda Perumal – Lord Narayana in sitting posture). The Moolavar is Sri Parthasarathy Swami in Iruntha Thirukolam with Rukmani and Sathyabama. He is in a stage called Tribangam, which is a posture in Bharatanatya. The specialiy here is that his left legs are in the front and the right leg is behind.
This temple is older than Nambi Narayana temple and it’s history dates back to Dwapara Yuga. Thonnur is just before Pandavapura. It is believed that pandavas stayed in this place during their exile, hence Pandavapura. Yudhishtira, eldest son of Kunti (one among Pancha Pandavas) is supposed to have built this temple and Brughu Muni is said to have installed the idol of Lord Parthasarathy. Sri Ramanujacharya is said to have consecrated this idol.
The utsava moorthy is Venugopalaswamy, Lord Krishna holding a flute in dancing posture with Rukmini and Sathyabhama. It is a very adorable idol of Lord Krishna. The speciality of the temple is dancing Gopalakrishna with the left leg in the front side – normally the right leg is in the front. The praharams are quite huge and ancient and dates back to 11th century. The architecture is exemplary revealing a culmination of Hoysala and Chola Dynasty. A basadi-like tower, sukanasi, navaranga, mukha mantapa and garbha griha define the temple architecture. To Return to Index of Contents, Click Here. Otherwise Continue
3.7 Lakshminarayana Temple, Hosaholalu
Lakshminarayana Temple, Hosaholalu , H 85, Hosaholalu, Karnataka 571426 Lakshminarayana Temple, is located at Hosaholalu Karnataka at a distance of 160 kms from Bangalore and 60 kms from Mysore. This three-shrine monument is notable for its finely carved plinth (adhisthana) with panels of the Ramayana, the Mahabharata and the Bhagavata Purana. It has one of the most beautifully embellished Hoysala tower projection (sukanasa) that integrates the Dravida motifs with asta-bhadra Bhumija motifs from central India. Also notable are polish and jewelry-like carvings inside the temple’s mandapa.
Krishnarajapet taluk of Mandya district has a number of temples that were built under the rule of the Hoysala Empire between the 11th and 14th Century and is thus referred to as the ‘Motherland of Hoysala temples’. The Lakshmi Narayana temple is a prime example of this distinctive architectural style.
This is a three-celled temple(Trikuta) and hence has three garbhagrihas, the main one containing the idol of Lakshminarayana and the North and South facing garbhagrihas have the deity’s of Sri Venu Gopala Swamy and Sri Lakshmi Narasimha respectively. Maharaja Prahaladha is at the feet of Lord Narasimha – very rare- only in 2 temples. such idols . Other in Andhra Pradesh (Kadri) Due to its intricate artwork and beautiful sculptures, this temple has been compared to the famous temples at Javagal, Nuggehalli, Somananthapur and Aralukuppe.
The Lakshminarayana temple was built in 1250 A.D by King Vira Someshwara. At this point of time, Hoysala architecture was at its peak. The temple has been very well maintained and has not been damaged by the many decades it has seen. One or two of the idols have been remade in the 1950s, but the rest are original.
The Vishnu temple illustrates a later stage Hoysala architecture with a square plan and four-storey Vesara vimana, one that strongly resembles the Harnahalli temples. It was built using Soapstone (chloritic schist). The temple is a trikutachala and is built on a platform that resembles a star. This platform is raised and has a pillared hall or navaranga in the centre and the three shrines around it. The main shrine containing the idol of Lakshminarayana is the only one that has a sukhanasi and a tower and the most decorative interiors. The entire temple is built out of Soapstone and incorporates the typical Hoysala jagati which elevates the temple over the ground by a meter.
The navaranga is the first thing you’ll see when you enter the temple and has four beautiful lathe turned pillars dividing the hall into nine cells. Each pillar is beautifully carved with sculptures of young dancing girls in various graceful and elegant poses. Each cell has a unique design on the ceiling that brings out the true talent and imagination of the sculptor.
The statue of Sri Venu Gopala Swamy was built more recently. The Sri.Lakshmi Narayana idol is a magnificent piece of art and has tiny intricate detailing that makes it very attractive. Between the Lakshmi Narayana idol and the last idol of Lakshmi Narasimha, there is an idol of Parvathi with her foot on the chest of Mahishasura which has caused it to cave in.
The base, like all Hoysala temples has the six layers of decorative pattikas that comprise of swans, elephants, horse riders, leafy scrolls, various gods and goddesses and scenes from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharatha.
The mid section of the temple is richly decorated with sculptures of various Gods, Shiva being the most prominent having over 120 images of him in various forms, dancing Saraswathi, Brahma, Ganapathi, Yoga – Madhava, Kalinga – Mardhana, dancers, musicians and many other deities. Unlike the other temples of this kind, most of the sculptures and images at the Lakshminarayana temple are intact and have been very well preserved.
In honor of Anjaneya, during the Month of April every year, a ver famous fair called the Rangada – habba is held in the complex of the temple. Temple timings are 8am -1 pm, 2pm-4.30pm,5.30 -8pm .Telephone : Raja Bhattar 8105577694, 9341610140 To Return to Index of Contents, Click Here. Otherwise Continue
4.1 Yoga Narasimha Temple, Melkote
Yoga Narasimha Temple, Melkote Main Road, District Mandya, Melukote, Karnataka 571431 Yoga Narasimha Temple, is located at District Mandya, Melukote, Karnataka at a distance of 150 kmd from Bangalore and 50 km from Mysore..The impressive temple stands on top of a hill at a height of 1777 metres above the sea level. The historic temple attracts devotees due to its architectural beauty, serene surroundings and religious significance. It is one of the 800 Narasimha temples in India.
The majestic temple is dedicated to Lord, Narasimha. The temple houses an idol of Narasimha in a seated position with the Yogapatta. The temple is considered to be one of the seven holy centres devoted to the worship of Narasimha. Apart from the regular pujas carried out on a daily basis, the temple holds special pujas to celebrate the Narasimha Jayanthi festival every year.
The temple was built during the Hoysala kingdom. The beauty and religious significance of the temple has always fascinated the common people and the royalty alike. The temple has a huge drum that was donated by Tipu Sultan. It has a beautiful bell that was donated by the Mysore Parakalamatha. During the rule of the erstwhile Wodeyar Kings of Mysore, Krishnaraja Wodeyar III had donated a gold crown to the temple deity.
Yoga Narasimha Temple boasts of an impressive architecture. There are around 365 steps that lead to the temple situated high up on the hill. The intricate carvings on the pillars and the overall structure of the temple offer a glimpse into the architectural style of the bygone era. The top of the temple is visible from afar due to its height but the full glory of the detailed work of the craftsmen is visible only when one reaches near the entrance.
As per the legend, after the death of his father Hiranyakasipu, Prahlad Maharaj was a bit upset that he was the cause of his fathers death. It is said that Prahalad visited Melkote and found a lot of spiritual vibration on top of the hillock. He placed his shaligrama that he used to regularly worship and after a dip in Varaha kund came to his cave for worship. Suddenly he was astonished as the shaligrama took the form of Yoga Narasimha. The body of Narasimha has Shaligrama Chakras all over. MelkoteThis is visible during Abhisheka. Prahalad was ordained to worship Yoga Narasimha and Prahalad maharaj stayed in Melkote for 12 years and that all his sins associated with the demise of is father would be cleansed.
Yoga Narasimha sits on top of Nava Narasimhas. Each of the 9 steps represent individual Narasimhas. The third eye of Narasimha is visible for those who have done a lot of tapas. There are a total of 365 steps representing one year in days from the bottom of the hillock to Yoga Narasimha. There are Pancha Kalyanis in the main kalyani tank. Lord Rama also worshipped Yoga Narasimha on Melkote.
Prahalad also installed a Yoga Narasimha Diety at Kere Tonnur behind Nambi Narayana Temple. The uniqueness of this place is that there is a danda or a stick which is always kept on right hand side of the diety, and is used to beat the bad out of people. MelkoteIt is said that in the very same place, the jain king Bittideva’s daughter was possessed by a Brahmarakshashi. When 1000 Jain priests could not remove the ghost, Ramanuja said that he can. Ramanuja put a mantra and hit on the head of the daughter and immediately the ghost left her. Then all the Jain Priests had to convert to Sri Vaishnavism. They still protested. They challenged Ramanuja with 1000 questions and asked him to answer all the 1000 questions in one answer covering all questions. Ramanuja took his adishesha form with 1000 heads and answered all questions. Inquisitive Jain Priests then pulled out the cloth towel which was screening Ramanujacharya and when they saw the snake many of them died, and the of the rest of them many of them suffered shock and the remaining converted to SriVaishnavism. The original sack that Ramanujacharya used at the very place and is enclosed in a glass case.
Yoga Narasimha Temple Timingx are 9.00 am to 1.00 pm. and from 5.30 pm to 8.00 pm.
4.2 Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple, Melukote
Sri Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple, Pandavapura, Taluk, Melukote, Karnataka 571431 Sri Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple, is located at Melukote, Pandavapura, Taluk, Karnataka at a distance of 150 kmd from Bangalore and 50 km from Mysore. Melkote is the abode of Lord Sri Thiru Narayanan Swamy. .
The utsavamurthi, which is a metallic image, represents the deity who is called Shelvapillai, Cheluva Raya and Cheluvanarayana Swamy, whose original name appears to have been Ramapriya (meaning “Rama’s Favourite”). It is believed that this utsavamurthi belonged to and was worshipped by Lord Rama and the kings of the surya vamsa Dynasty for generations. Later the same deity was given to a king of Chandra vamsam (the dynasty of Lord Krishna) and was worshipped by Lord Krishna and many generations. So CheluvaNarayana is so unique that he was worshipped by both Rama and Krishna.
Again in KALIYUGA the Deity was worshiped by the great Srivaishnava Saint Sri Ramanujacharya well known as Yathiraja Sarvabhowma (king of Yathis ) who renovated the temple after the deity and hence the city became famous by the name of Ramanujacharya as Yathishaila (mountain of yathi).
It is built on rocky hills, known as Yadugiri, Yaadavagiri and Yadushailadweepa, overlooking the Cauvery valley. This shrine is very ancient, though the temple complex is just around 1000 years old.
As per the legend, Sri Ramanuja, the great Vaishnava Acharya, stayed in Melkote for 12 years, and gained many followers, including the Hoysala King, Vishnuvardhana. During this time, the processional idol of this temple had been lost for some time. Realizing that the idol was in the possession of the Muslim emperor in Delhi, Muhammed Shah, Sri Ramanuja decided to go there and get it back.
Muhammed Shah was greatly impressed by the saint and granted him permission to take it back. So, the idol came back to Melkote. This temple has been revered and worshipped by several succeeding dynasties, the Hoysalas, the Vijayanagara kings and the Mysore Maharaja. They have all made contributions to the temple in terms of grants, jewels, funds for temple maintenance etc.
The temple is lined with carved pillars and features a dome-like top decorated with highly detailed sculptures. The presiding deity is Cheluvanarayana Swamy, also known as Unggasu Wiili or Cheluvapille Raya a form of Lord Vishnu.[3] Inscriptions indicate that the deity was also known as Ramapriya.
The utsavamurthi , a metal idol sculpture used for processions and certain religious rituals, represents the deity Cheluvanarayana Swamy.The temple has a beautiful gopura which consists of shrines of Ramanuja, idols of Alwars and Yadugiriamma in the temple.
Vairamudi Brahmotsava (Vairamudi Utsav) is an annual spiritual event and festival revered throughout South India. In the past it has attracted up to 400,000 devotees of Lord Cheluva Narayana (Tirunarayana). The main event is the procession of Lord Cheluvanarayana Swamy through the streets of Melkote, which are decorated in his honour. In the procession the Lord’s idol is carried on a golden garuda, along with idols representing his divine consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi. The procession takes place at night and continues until dawn. The festival is named for the legendary diamond studded crown, the Vaira Mudi which the Lord only wears during this procession. For the rest of the festival the Lord wears the Rajamudi, another crown studded with precious stones.
Temple timings are 7am to 1:30pm and 4 pm to 8:30pm Mandir Contact Telephone Number: 08236-299839.
4.3 Aadhi Madhavaraya Swamy Temple, Bellur
ಶ್ರೀ ಆದಿಮಾಧವರಾಯ ದೇವಸ್ಥಾನ XPMJ+29F, Bellur, Karnataka 571418 (Ancient Shri Aadhi Madhavaraya Swamy Temple) ಶ್ರೀ ಆದಿಮಾಧವರಾಯ ದೇವಸ್ಥಾನ (Ancient Shri Aadhi Madhavaraya Swamy Temple) is located at Bellur, Karnataka at a distance of 110 Kms from Bangalore. ಶ್ರೀ ಆದಿಮಾಧವರಾಯ ದೇವಸ್ಥಾನ (Ancient Shri Aadhi Madhavaraya Swamy Temple) is located at Bellur, Karnataka at a distance of 110 Kms from Bangalore.
The Adi Madhavaraya temple was built sometime around 1296 AD. The presiding deity of this ancient temple is Lord Sri Adi Madhavan, a form of Lord Vishnu. The sanctum sanctorum of this temple is found placed on top of a base structure of 32 angles and has a Dravidian shikhara. The temple walls are simple while the pillars are ornate with miniature shikaharas. The antarala houses several brass sculptures. The ceilings over the Navaranga are sculpted with images of Lord Ganapati, Sri Ramanuja and the Alwars. The dwarapalakas are found in either side of the sanctum’s entrance with the image of Gajalaksmi in the door lintel.
A large Karugallu (boulder) lies very close to the temple, having two huge boulders made of soapstone. The Adimadhavaraya temple traditionally follows the Hoysala still of architecture. The three-celled structure (trikutacala plan) is raised on a stellate parapet. Two other deities are also present in this temple other than Lord Adi Madhavaraya viz Lord Lakshmi Narayana and Gopala. These two deities originally graced from the nearby Mulesingeshwara temple (Kshetra palaka) built in 1224 A.D. Historical evidences inform us that Sri Mulesingeshwara temple previously housed three deities namely Sindheshwara, Lakshminarayana and Gopala while the later two deities were transferred to the Adi Madhavaraya temple.
The vigraha of Lord Adi Madhava here is found placed on a garuda pedestal. The deity graces from the main sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha), with the images of Dasavatara carved above the deity. The shrines of Lord Venugopala and Laksminarayana were more recently built and are positioned on either side of the main mukhamantapa. The prakara of this temple houses the shrine of Goddess Saumyanayaki to the left while Goddess Ranganayaki graces from the right side.
Traditionally in most South Indian temples, the Lord’s consort mostly graces from a separate shrine and not along with the Lord from the main sanctum. In case of Devi Saumyanayaki here, the Goddess graces from a separate shrine. Thus she is actually believed to be the consort of Lord Adi Madhava and not the other deity Venugopala. Goddess Lakshmi, the divine consort of Lord Narayana is seen together with the deity in his sanctum. In case any authentic evidences emerge pointing out Devi Saumyanayaki as the consort of Sri Adi Madhava Perumal, it shall stand proof to the belief that Lord Krishna and Lord Vishnu were in fact regarded as one and the same, during that particular period of time at the region. It must also be noted that Goddess Saumyanayaki is the consort of Sri Krishna at Saumya Kesava temple.
The chief deity is Sri Adimadhava who graces here from the main the sanctum holding the Shanku and chakra in his upper hands. The deity is also seen holding a Gadha is his lower right arm while showing the padma mudra (symbol) in his lower left.
In the cell to the left of Adi-Madhava is a beautiful Deity of Janardhana, and to His left is Venugopala. The winter festival called Karuhabba is the most popular festivals celebrated in this temple.
Madhava Raya Temple built in 1270 A.D is a Trikootachala, three celled temple raised on a stellate parapet. The main cell houses a fine image of Adi-Madhava (one of the 24 forms of Maha Vishnu). The unique feature of the form is that the Lord holds Chakra in upper right hand and Shanka in the upper left. The lower right hand holds Gada and the lower left has Padma. To the left of Adi-Madhava we find Janardhana image and to the left we see Venu-gopala. The temple timings are : 0800-1200 Hrs 6pm-8pm; Contact : Somasekar – convener- 08234 287406
4.4 Beteraya Swamy Temple, Turuvekere
Shree Beteraya Swamy Temple, Turuvekere, Karnataka 572227 Shree Beteraya Swamy Temple is located at Turuvekere, Karnataka at a distance of 130 kms from Bangalore.
As per the Legend the sages Shri Vaikunta and Shri Chandrachud performed penance at Turuvekere. Rakshasas took the form of animals and tried to disturb them. Lord Vishnu arrived on the scene riding a horse and killed them. Since he arrived as a hunter Vishnu is called Beteraya, hunter in Kannada. In 1194 AD, Hebbar Chowdaiah found the idol of Beterayaswamy in Brahmatheertha [Pakshivahana madu] and installed it at the place where a cow was performing abhisheka to a Snake’s burrow. The Hoysala king Veera Ballala II and his wife, Lokambikey patronized this temple and presented the Utsava murthy and lands for its maintenance. In later years, Krishnaraja Wadiyar II provided financial support.
The temple is not an architectural wonder but its claim to fame is its chariot festival. An annual Rathotsava [chariot festival] at this temple brings lots of devotees to Turuvekere. The marriage of Vishnu with goddess Lakshmi happens at night. Priests take sides and perform the rituals as the bride and groom’s parents. Next morning is the teru. Teru is both rath[chariot] and rath yatra, for which all of Turuvekere gets dolled up. An Eagle is seen flying over the chariot a few minutes before it is pulled. The Eagle is believed to be Garuda paying homage to his Lord Beterayaswamy.
A few years ago, “made santarpaney” used to be a part of this festival. The temple hosts a lunch called oora santarpaney, meal for all residents of the place, after the teru. Sumptuous breakfast and lunch are sponsored mostly by the temple. Lunch is served on banyan leaves in temples and schools. Once the first batch finishes its meal inside the temple, some devotees including Brahmins roll over these banyan leaves as a votive. While male devotees roll over them, women go around them. This practice was performed in a few other temples in India too. “Made santarpaney” was banned in Turuvekere .
Beterayaswamy being Vishnu is mounted on Garuda, his mount. And beside him are his consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi. Goddess Lakshmi has her own temple, .
Built by Vijayanagara kings around 15th century CE, the temple and mantapas are in good shape. The deity is said to be of Hoysala times (11th century CE). The tall pillars and spacious mantapas are typical of Vijayanagara style. This temple was built by, the ruler Mahanandanayaka Somanna of Vijayanagara, in the 15th century, BC. This temple has, intricate mandapas, and is considered to be, a famous shrine of Lord Vishnu, in Karnataka.
The significance of the temple is, that the devotees visit this holy place, to seek the blessings of the Lord to attain freedom, from all kinds of ailments and diseases, for gaining wealth, courage, as well as protect them from evil eyes. Whenever a devotee visits, this temple that person, is sure to get positive vibes, and peace of mind, in the tranquil Sanctorum, of this temple.
Turuvekere, beteraya swamy temple is a lord Venkateshvara temple. The main statue is very beautiful ; The temple is vijayanagara style temple. Main deity is said to be given by queen Shantala of hoysala empire. . Contact : Srinivasa Prasad 9448855116, 08139 288139
4.5 Gangadhareshwara Temple, Turuvekere
Sri Gangadhareshwara Temple, Turuvekere, Karnataka 572227 Sri Gangadhareshwara Temple is located at Turuvekere, Karnataka at a distance of 130 kms from Bangalore.
Turuvekere, a temple town situated in Tumakuru district, is home to two Hoysala-age temples. While Chennigaraya Temple is dedicated to Vishnu, Moole Shankareshwara Temple is dedicated to Shiva. According to a stone inscription present in the Vishnu Temple, the two temples were constructed during the rule of Hoysala king Narasimha III in the 13th century by Somanna, a Hoysala commander.
Two more temples, Beterayaswamy Temple and Gangadhareshwara Temple, are also located in this town. The town was earlier referred to as ‘Sarvajna Sri Vijaya Narasimha Pura’. It was established as an agrahara, according to the 13th century stone inscriptions found in Vishnu and Shiva temples. Relatively much bigger than the Vishnu Temple, the Shiva Temple in Turuvekere is known to have attributes of ‘Bhumija’ type of Nagara architectural style. Bhumija means ‘earth-born’, where the temple architecture type is attributed to human .kings, while other styles of architecture are believed to be of a divine or super- natural origin.
The garbhagriha of the Shiva Temple has a tiered four-feet tall Shiva linga sculpted out of polished black stone. Further, the temple structure as a whole consists of a whopping 64 corners. Although the door of garbhagriha faces east, the entrance to the temple is from south. The narrow opening in the eastern wall of the temple allows one to have a glimpse of the Shiva linga, even when the temple’s main door is closed. One of the stone inscriptions in the temple complex records the .names of Jakana, Eshwara and Saroja, believed to be the temple’s sculptors.
Gangadhareshwara Temple is dedicated to Shiva and is built in Dravidian style of architecture and is known for its exquisite carvings. The Shivling worshipped in the temple is referred as Gangadhareswara – it has matted locks of Shiva with Ganga. Sun, mood and the 27 birth stars (Nakshatras) also adorn the Shivling. The utsava murti of Shiva (the murti taken out for procession and rituals) has an eye on the foot.
Built in 12th Century AD Sri.Gangadhareshwara Temple at Turuvekere, is unique in its kind. The Shiva Idol is carved with Ganga sitting on top of his head and one can see fountains of water being flowing in the form Prabhavali. The Uthsava Murthy made out of Bronze is having an extra eye on the right foot, which also is a unique in nature.
In front of the temple, one can find beautifully carved Nandi which is around 7 feet in height which is decorated with bells and belt carved with unique design. The sitting Nandi is being polished to such an extent that one can see the reflection in it.
The other attraction in the temple is a bell made out of rock, which is around 2 feet in diameter and one can get the ringing sound by using rock or any metal piece. Just below the bell is the carving of Bedara Kannappa offering his eyes to Lord Shiva, The temple complex also houses a shrine of Goddess Bhavani
Many devotees normally visit Beterayaswamy Temple, where prayers and associated events are organised regularly. Even though the Vishnu, Shiva and Gangadhareshwara temples are situated within 500 metre radius of Beterayaswamy temple, they do not attract as much attention. Must have darshan of this ancient temple. To Return to Index of Contents, Click Here. Otherwise Continue
4.6 Yoga Madhava Temple, Settikere
Yoga Madhava Temple, Settikere ,9HJ5+GGG, Settikere, Karnataka 572226 Yoga Madhava Temple is located at Settikere Karnataka at a distance of 145 kms from Bangalore. The Yoga Madhava temple is, dedicated to Lord Vishnu
The temple was built in 1261 A.D. by an officer of the Hoysala domain (led by King Narasimha III) is a three vimana (hallowed place) arrange with the focal sanctum being semi-stellate (star molded). The other two sanctums on every side of the mantapa (lobby) are semi-vimanas on the grounds that they show no tower. The building material is Soap stone.
The temple has all the standard components of the Hoysala building: an open passage mantapa (mukhamantapa or patio) trailed by a mantapa without any windows, sukhanasi (vestibule) and a garbhagriha (“sanctum”). The passageway to the temple is through an open pillared yard (mukhamantapa) trailed by a mantapa (or navaranga). The external mass of the vestibule is additionally enlivening yet is subtle in light of the fact that it seems like a short continuation of the holy place external divider.
The roof of the lobby is bolstered by four machine transformed columns which isolate the roof into nine finished sounds. At the highest point of the temple tower is the kalasha, an enhancing water-pot like structure that is set over a vast vault (the “cap”) which is the biggest bit of figure in the temple measuring around 2m x 2m. The outline of the tower is strength in Hoysala workmanship. Contact Umesh 08234 287406
4.7 Sampige Srinivasa Temple
Sri Sampige Srinivasa Temple , Sampige ,Thurvekere, Tumkur, Karnataka 572225 Sri Sampige Srinivasa Temple is located at Sampige ,Thurvekere, Tumkur district,, Karnataka at a distance of 130 kms from Bangalore.
The deity of Vishnu is worshipped at the holy Sri Sampige Srinivasa Temple This temple is situated in a small village of Champakapuri Kshetram which is also known as Sampige due to the Champaka trees. . This place was once ruled by King Sudhava who is known to be a devotee of God Srinivasa. This place was under ruins during his era. The deity of God Srinivasa was buried in a Valmika and Gandharvas as well as Narada worshipped this deity every day. After a while, a local villager found the deity of God Srinivasa Perumal after seeing a bright light near Valmika. This temple was then built at this place and the deity of God Srinivasa Perumal was enshrined in the temple as God Shanka, God Chakra, God Sharanagathi Hastha and God Gadhadari.
Every year 10 day Brahmotsavam festivities are held according to the Srivaishnava tradition during May month and on the Vaishaka Shukla Trayodashi Chitra Nakshtram day the Grand Car Festival and Jatra is held during which many of the Srivaishnavas from Bangalore, Tumkur, Mysore come and worship the lord and a huge gathering of people from the villages around, shows the Popularity of the Lord
Contacts : Srinivas Prabhu 08139 279744 Srinivasa Iyengar : 08139 279572
4.8 Lakshmi Janardhana Temple, Kadaba Amanikere
Lakshmi Janardhana Temple, Kadaba Amanikere, Karnataka 572219 Lakshmi Janardhana Temple is located at Kadaba Amanikere, Karnataka at a distance of 100 kms from Bangalorfe.
Lakshmi Janardhana Temple, Kadaba is an ancient temple. It is nice, compact and calm temple. Believed to be more than 1000 years old temple. Not much of history of this temple is known. However , this village temple is maintained well .Contact : Anantharam Bhattar 958131 231550
4.9 Yoga Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple , Devarayana Durga
Sri Yoga Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple ,96H7+G7X, Devarayana Durga, Karnataka 572140 Sri Yoga Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is located at the hill top of Devarayana Durga, Karnataka at a distance of 75 kms from Bangalore. Built in Dravidian style architecture, Yoga Narasimha Temple is located on a hillock little higher and further from Bhoga Narasimha (which is located on the foot of the hill). True to its name “Devarayanadurga, when translated aptly means “Fort of the God”. Though it had various other names, it got the name Devarayanadurga after the Mysore ruler Chikka Devaraja Wodeyar captured it on one of his victorious feats.
The place is located above 4000 feet above sea level and can be a weekend pilgrimage spot and getaway for a quick retreat or picnic, to escape from the grind of the daily hustle and bustle of city life. It is also a trekker’s paradise, due to the fact that it has numerous hillocks surrounding it, and many wildlife enthusiasts, in fact, throng the place for various wildlife shoots etc. It is declared as a protective reserved forest by the forest department of Government of Karnataka.
This is a Mujarai temple, managed by Government of Karnataka. Devarayana Durga is located on Karigiri Kshetra in the Tumkur vicinity. . When seen from East this looks like a Elephant(hence called Karigiri), and from South a lion, from West like a snake, and from north like a Garuda.
Bramha during Dwapara yuga is said to have stayed here and prayed for over 2000 years. It is here that Narasimha appeared and gave him a vision of himself with Lakshmi. Even today the vigraha does not touch the ground, and a banana leaf can be easily slide between the linga and the ground. The diety has 2 shaligramas in the mouth. A Vishnu Shaligrama and a Narasimha Shaligrama.
There are 9 major Thirthas in the vicinity. Narasimha Thirtha, Bramha Thirtha, Sripada Thirtha(said to have 108 Thirthas within and also has a swambhu hayagriva in the cave wall), Agastya Thirtha, Kasi Thirtha, Vrushaba Thirtha, Chakra Thirtha, Dhanus Thirtha (Created by Rama and Lakshmana) and Vayu Thirtha. The Sripada Thirtha can cure complex and acute skin diseases.
Various mythological books describe this place as a very sacred place, as there is a pond with sacred water which is believed to run through the idol of Yoga Narasimha, which can be experienced even today as one enters the entrance of the temple premises.
As per the legend, Kakasura was killed here. The steps to the top of the hill were renovated with the blessings of Sri Sri Swayamprakasha Sri Sachidananda Swamiji. During Dhanu Maasya, even now the Sapta Rishis appear to perform worship of Sri Narasimha during the bramha muhurta, everyday.
Around 100 steps have to be climbed to reach the temple and the scenic beauty will definitely leave the climbers spellbound. Lush greenery can be found around the hillock which gives a relief from the tedious task of climbing the steps. Contact Narasimha Bhattar 0816 2265 456
4.10 Bhoga Narasimha Swamy Temple Devarayana Durga
Bhoga Narasimha Swamy Temple Devarayana Durga, Karnataka 572140 Bhoga Narasimha Swamy Temple is located at Devarayana Durga, Karnataka at a distance of 70 kms from Bangalore. It is one of the 800 Narasimha Temples in India. True to its name “Devarayanadurga, when translated aptly means “Fort of the God”. Though it had various other names, it got the name Devarayanadurga after the Mysore ruler Chikka Devaraja Wodeyar captured it on one of his victorious feats.
As per the legend, It is said that Lord Brahma the creator of the Universe, has performed penance for many years in the name of Lord Vishnu for several thousand years. Impressed by his penance, Lord Vishnu has incarnated himself as Lord Narasimha here. The Bhoga Narasimha Temple is located at the base of the hillock of the Devarayanadurga and the deity as we all know is dedicated to Lord Narasimha. This temple enjoyed the patronage of many kings from various dynasties and also is well known for its simple but beautiful architectural marvel. There are numerous pillars dotting the temple, on which inscriptions have been carved regarding the history of the temple and the various rulers.
Bhoga Narasimha is a similar but not identical Diety of Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Sri Devarayana Durgaon the foot hills. There are 2 shaligramas in the mouth of Narasimha. A Vishnu Shaligrama and Narasimha Shaligrama. Durvasa Maha Muni came to visit Bramha and installed the Boga Narasimha after engaging in deep Penance for many years. The place was earlier called Jatakadurga and Jatakarayana Durga who were brothers. Down the ages it got transformed into DevarayanaDurga.
Bramharatotsava is performed during Holy Pournima. Phalgun Maasa pournami pubba nakshatra day. This is one month after the Seebi Narasimha Jaatre.
During Ratotsava time, for couples wanting to beget children, there is a special prasada called Garuda Buthi. There are many confirmed childless couples who have begotten children after accepting this prasada.
During the Rath Yatra, before the Rath is pulled, during the afternoon time, a Garuda appears on the sky and after 3 circles only the rath is pulled. I have witnessed this spectacle myself.
Both the Yoga and Bhoga Lakshmi Narasimha temples are located in the center of Ashta Anjaneyas, Ashta Shiva and Ahsta Vishnu Kshetras. Contact Details : Varadaraja Bhattar 0816 2265452 Executive officer : 0816 2265 455 To Return to Index of Contents, Click Here.
Kshethradanam 
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