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Saturday 30 November 2013

Sri Sita Rama Chandra Murthi at Bhadrachalam

Bhadrachalam Sita Rama Swamy:-


The temple of Rama, called as Sita Rama Swamivari Devasthanam, is a sacred place in the town of Bhadrachalam. Situated on a hillock with the River Godavari flowing at the foot of it, this temple of Lord Rama is one of the most visited shrines in the South India. The main deity or the "moola virattu", consists of two granite idols- Lord Rama with His consort Sita seated on His lap and Lakshmana. A unique characteristic of the idol of Sri Rama is that the Panchajanya (conch) is in His right hand while the Sudarshana Chakra is in His left hand.

There is River Godavari flowing in the town of Bhadrachalam. For tourists, there is a scenic walkway and park where you have sculptures illustrating some prominent episodes from Ramayana.

The name Bhadrachalam:-

The name Bhadrachalam is derived from Bhadragiri meaning the mountain of Bhadra who was the boon child of Meru and Menaka. To get the grace of Lord Rama, the saint Bhadra performed penance at the bank of river Godavari in Dandakaranya.

The saint wanted Rama to be seated on his head, but Rama who was in search of his consort Sita gave promise to his Bhakta that his desire would be fulfilled on his way back, after finding Sita and accomplishing the process of punishing the wicked Ravana. But Rama could not accomplish the promise in Ramavatara, so the sage continued the frightened penance. Then Sri Mahavishnu manifests himself as Vykunta Rama with Shankh on the right hand and Chakra on the left hand and rushes to his devotee Bhadra along with Sita and Laxman.

The hill place where the Deities were seated on was the head place of Bhadra Achala. So this shrine was called the Bhadrachalam.

There is nothing particular about the architecture of the temple, and the edifices are built rather sturdily than elegantly. However, the images of Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana are arresting by their divine beauty and anyone who meditated before the deity would feel that the image has not been made merely as a piece of sculpture, as an icon of the Lord, by an ordinary Sthapathi, but has been done by some great mystic, in a moment of complete and ecstatic oneness with the Lord. Such arresting beauty in sculpture is not known anywhere else.

The place is associated with Rama in more than one way. He spent a part of the 14 years of his "Aranya vasam" (exile) accompanied by his spouse, Sita and his brother, Laxmana. A few kilometers away from the temple is the Ushnagundam. It is said that Lakshmana had brought hot water from here for Sita to bathe. About 35 km away from Bhadrachalam is the Parnashala, believed to be the hut where Rama, Sita and Lakshamana lived during their exile in the forest and where Sita was abducted by the demon king of Lanka, Ravana.
Pokala Dhammakka found the idols of Vykunta Rama, Laxmana and Sita. She was an ardent devotee of Rama lived in 17th century was inhabitant of Bhadrireddypalem, a mile away from this holy place. One night, she had darshan of Rama in her dream and was told by lord Rama “the saints and sages are worshiping my embodied deity settled on Bhadragiri” and asked her to trace them, perform pooja and attain salvation. On the very next day morning she started searching for the idols - peeped into an anthill and found the idols hidden in it. She poured hundreds of pots of Godavari water on the anthill, which tardily dissolved and gave way to appear the hidden Deities. Since then, she used to perform pooja daily and offer 'nivedyam' with fruits fallen from near palmyra tree and constructed a mandapam with the help of local villagers.

About temple:-

 The present temple was constructed in the middle of the 18th century. Bhadrachalam was then under the Kutub Shah kings, with capital at Golconda. Gopanna, nephew of Madanna, Minister of King Abul Hasan Tani Shah (1674-99), the last of the Kutub Shah Kings, became Tahsildar of the Bhadrachalam area. He was so intensely devoted to Lord Rama that he spent about Rs. 6 lakhs of revenue on the renovation of the temple and making ornaments for Sri Rama. For this diversion of royal money, he was arrested and incarcerated inside the Golconda fort. This dungeon is even now known as Ramadas's prison and is shown to visitors at Golconda. Sri Rama himself is stated to have appeared in his dream and handed over to him a receipt for the money spent in building the temple. Next morning, Tani Shah (Nawab of Golconda) himself came to the cell and released Gopanna.

A thoroughly shaken king not only restored Gopanna to his position as Tahsildar, but also gave huge amounts of gifts and in addition, sanctioned a substantial annual grant for the maintenance of the temple, continued by the Nizam's Government.

Ramadas is credited with having composed many devotional works, hymns and prayers to Sri Rama. "Dasarathi Sataka" is considered to be one of his most popular works.

After Ramadas's death, the temple fell into disrepair and it was left to another ardent devotee, Thummu Narasimhadas of Guntur, to make some improvements, to prevent further deterioration of the temple. He secured from Raja Chandulal, a Minister under the Nizam of Hyderabad, the gift of a village, the revenue from which was to be utilised for maintaining the temple services.

Sri Tyagaraja visited Bhadrachalam, drew inspiration from the kritis of Ramadas for his own immortal compositions and composed three or four kritis in the presence of the deity, the well-known among them being "Mohana Rama" and "Enna Ganu Rama Bhajana."

The temple lies on a hillock, commanding a grand view of the Godavari and can be reached by climbing about 100 steps.
 On either side of the entrance to the muhamandapa are the Dwarapalakas — Jaya and Vijaya. The faces of the four pillars in the muhamandapa contain exquisite image of Ashtalakshmi, 18 forms of Lord Siva, Dasavatar, 12 Azhwars, etc. The ceiling of this mandapa contains the figures of a three-petal lotus, made out of a single piece of granite stone. Apsara women adorn the inner portion of the muhamandapa and the sanctum.

The octagonal-vimana (tower) over the sanctum is a three-storey construction with granite stones, the kind seen in the temples in Thanjavur and Chidambaram of the Chola period.

The other face of the Vimana contains beautiful stone images depicting the 48 forms of Lord Vishnu, Garuda, Simha, Somaskanda and Dakshinamurthy.

Another unique feature in the sanctum is that the sikhara (dome) crowning the vimana is carved from a single block of granite, weighing about 36 tonnes.

This is the biggest in the recent centuries, the oldest being the 80-tonne sikhara over the vimana of the Big temple in Thanjavur.

The Sikhara is crowned with Sudarsana Chakra, which Ramadas got from the Godavari. The eight-faced Chakra with thousand corners contains Sudarsana Murthi, engraved in the centre. Nearby stand three pillars — "Ramakoti Kratu Sthamba" among the 108 such pillars installed in various pilgrim centres in this country by Sri Ramanujar.

On the sides of the pillars are carved inscriptions of "Samkshipta Ramayana" in Sanskrit in Devanagari script. One of the pillars contains the verses from "Dasarathi Sataka" written by Ramadas with a white marble stone of his image in front.

The most attractive and awe-inspiring feature is the Kalyana Mandapa outside the temple. It is a treasure house of sculptures, which are not only those of gods and goddesses, but also scenes from legends.

There are also exquisite floral designs. On the ceiling, the Ramayana and the 12 zodiac signs are inscribed.

Close to the temple on the top of another hillock is the Ramadas Dhyana Mandir, a huge hall used for conducting philosophical and devotional programmes. The interior and exterior walls are inscribed with poems from Dasarathi Sataka and kritis sung by Ramadas. A life-size statue of the poet stands in front of this building.

Chitrakuta Mandapa is used for conducting cultural activities and performing marriages by devotees. The `sthala purana' of this place is depicted on the walls.

 Another Unique feature of this Temple town is there are two Kshetra Palakas for the main temple. Those are:

    Sri Yogananda Jwala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy (Lord Narasimha)
    Sri Annapurna Kasi Vishweswara Swamy (Lord Shiva)

 In the above two temples also the main Deities face westside towards river Godavari. These two temples are sub temples to Seeta Ramachandra Swamy Temple and are equally important with the main temple. Both these sub temples are also located on small hillocks as Sri Rama temple, but Lord Shivas' temple is located in the higher ground along with Nava Gragahs and Vignadipathi Vinayakudu (Lord Ganesh). These temples are also equally significant along with the main temple of Lord Sri Rama.

One more place, well known and famous, and it is called "Gnanamandiram" which is located in top hill. from here we can see the curve of Godavari River and the complete view of Bhadrachalam. inside the Gnamandiram we can see and read the "Ramayanam" on stone plates.

 History of Bhadrachalam:-

Bhadrachalam is situated in an area, which once formed part of the Dandakaranya forest, visited by Sri Rama,Sita and Lakshmana during their exile (vanavasam). The jungle in the vicinity of the temple was the actual site of Rama's retreat and it was at the parnasala (32 km from here) that he built a hut for himself and Sita and from where Sita was abducted by Ravana.

The history of this shrine stands for the significance of Ramayana Era, and vicinity of the temple had its incongruous add mixture of another story which depicts the exigency of " Sri Mahavishnu " to manifest himself as Rama long after Ramavatara was to fulfill his promise to his Bhakta Bhadra (a mountain king), a sage who had been continuing the frightened penance to get grace of Lord Rama.The name Bhadrachalam derived from Bhadragiri (Mountain of Bhadra - child of Meru and Menaka).

The temple at Bhadrachalam has the Archa Murthys of Rama, Sita and Lakshmana and are considered to be Svayambhu Murthys (self-manifested ones).Srirama appeared in a dream to a woman called Pokala Dammakka and informed here about the existence of vigrahas on Bhadragiri hills. To her surprise she found the "Vigrahas" and put up a modest structure.Dhammakka, cleared jungle and offered puja to the deities.

Idol:-


The idol of Sri Rama (moolavar) is in the padmasana possture with four hands, (Chaturbuja Rama) holding the bow and arrow in the front two hands.  Sankha and Chakra in the rear hands. He is holding the Sankha  in the right hand and Chakra in the left, indicating that having completed the destruction of the "rakshasas" with the Chakra confirming the Lord is assuring the world of peace and protection. To the left of Sri Rama is Sita and Lakshmana is on her left. But in the utsava deity, Sita and Lakshmana are on either side of Rama. Adi Sankara, who has visited this temple, described Sri Rama as "Vaikunta Rama."

Temple History:-


The history depicts that the need emerged the incarnation of Vykuntha Rama was that to fulfill a long desire of his ardent devotee Bhadra. The Saint Bhadra - Bhadra performed penance at the bank of river Godavari in this " Dandakaranya " to get grace of lord Rama and in countenance of his beloved God - The exulted "Rishi" implored Rama to be seated on his head, but Rama who was in search of his consort Sita gave promise to his Bhakta that his desire would be fulfilled on his way back, after finding Sita and accomplishing the process of punishing the wicked Ravana and establish 'Dharma'. Thus the sage had been in continuation of the frightened penance, as Rama could not accomplish the promise in Ramavatara. Then Sri Mahavishnu manifested himself as Vykuntha Rama and rushed to his devotee Bhadra, signaling his arrival by blowing 'Shanku', accompanied by his consort Sita and brother Laxmana, resembling that of 'Gajendra Moksham ' - Thus, the moorthies of Rama (having four hands) - Shanku on the right, Chakra at his left and Dhanurbhana (Bow and Arrow in the rest two hands), Sita had condescended on the left lap of Rama and brother (at Rama's left) are existed. And the hill place where the Deities were seated on, was the head place of Bhadra - achalam (hill), thus this shrine was transformed into Bhadrachalam. Pokala Dhammakka found the idols of Vykuntha Rama, Laxmana and Sita. Pokala Dhammakka, an ardent devotee of Rama lived in 17th century was inhabitant of Bhadrireddypalem, a mile away from this holy place .On new fine night, she had darshan of Rama in her dream and was told by lord Rama that " the saints and sages are worshiping my embodied moorthy settled on Bhadragiri " and asked her to trace them, perform pooja and attain salvation. On the very next day morning she started searching for the idols - peeped into an anthill and found the idols hidden in it. She poured hundreds of pots of Godavari water on the anthill, which tardily dissolved and gave way to appear the hidden Deities. Since then, she used to perform pooja daily and offer 'nivedyan' with fruits fallen from near palmyra tree and constructed a mandapam with the help of local villagers.

Legends of Bhadrachalam:-

Legend has it that the town is located in the area that was once a part of the Dandakaranya forest. According to Hindu legends, Lord Rama and Sita Devi together with his brother Laxmana lived in this forest for some time during the duration of their exile. Many people believe that the forested area near the Sri Rama Temple is the place where the God stayed with His wife and brother for a few days. Some 32 km from the temple. Lord Rama built a dwelling place for His family. This was the same hut from where Ravana abducted Sita and carried her with him to Lanka.

Another legend attached to the town of Bhadrachalam is that of Lord Vishnu and His devotee Bhakta Bhadra. Bhadra was a sage who was an ardent devotee of Lord Rama. The Lord met the sage when He was on His way to Lanka to rescue Sita. The sage implored Lord to sit on his head. However, the Lord, who was in a hurry to rescue His wife, promised the sage that He would fulfill his wish on His way back. However, this could not happen, and the sage continued worshipping Lord Vishnu in order to get a glimpse of Vishnu’s Rama avatar. It is believed that, impressed with the devotion and penance of Bhadra, Lord Vishnu appeared to his devotee in the avatar of Lord Rama along with His wife Sita and brother Laxmana. The Lord announced His coming by blowing a conch. The Lord was seated on the top of Bhadragiri, His wife sat on the left lap and His brother on the right side. This event is believed to have occurred many years after the end of the ‘Ramarajaya’ or the rule of Rama. The name of the town is derived from the name of this devotee of Lord Rama.

A very interesting legend attached to the Sri Rama Temple is that the Lord Himself appeared in the dream of a woman called Pokala Dammakka. Lord Rama told the woman of the presence of vigrahas on the slopes of Bhadragiri. The woman visited the mountain the next day and to her surprise found many vigrahas scattered on the mountain. She formed a simple structure on the mountain and named it Dhammakka. She tried to clear the jungle as much as she could and started worshipping at the altar every day. Ever since then, the mountain of Bhadragiri has become an important holy center for Hindu pilgrims from all over the world. Every year millions of devotees come to the place to offer their prayers and to seek forgiveness for their earthly sins.

Maharshi Bhadra:-

Bhadra performed penance at the bank of river Godavari in this " Dandakaranya " to get grace of lord Rama and in countenance of his beloved God - The exulted "Rishi" implored Rama to be seated on his head ,but Rama who was in search of his consort Sita gave promise to his Bhakta that his desire would be fulfilled on his way back , after finding Sita and accomplishing the process of punishing the wicked Ravana and establish 'Dharma' . Thus the sage had been in continuation of the frightened penance as Rama could not accomplish the promise in Ramavatara . Then Sri Mahavishnu manifested himself as Vykuntha Rama and rushed to his devotee Bhadra , signaling hisarrival by blowing 'Shanku',accompanied by his consort Sita and brother Laxmana , resembling that of 'Gajendra Moksham ' - Thus , the moorthies of Rama ( having four hands ) - Shanku on the right , Chakra at his left and Dhanurbhana ( Bow and Arrow in the rest two hands ) , Sita had condescended on the left lap of Rama and brother ( at Rama's left ) are existed . And the hill place where the Deities were seated on , was the head place of Bhadra - achalam ( hill ) ,thus this shrine was transformed into Bhadrachalam .

The idols of Vykuntha Rama, Laxmana and Sita were found by Pokala Dhammakka. Pokala Dhammakka, an ardent devotee of Rama lived in the 17th century and was an inhabitant of Bhadrireddypalem, a mile away from this holy place. On one fine night, she had darshan of Rama in her dream who said "the saints and sages are worshiping my embodied moorthy settled on Bhadragiri" and asked her to trace them, perform pooja and attain salvation. On the very next day morning she started searching for the idols-peeped into an ant-hill and found the idols hidden in it. She poured hundreds of pots of Godavari water on the ant-hill which tardily dissolved and gave way for the appearance of the hidden Deities. Since then, she used to perform pooja daily and offer 'naivedyam' with fruits fallen from near palmyra tree and constructed a mandapam of thatch hut with the help of local villagers. Bhagawan Rama told Dhammakka that at a later date, one of his devotees would construct a Mandir at this site. Dhammakka waited patiently for the devotee. The devotee turned out to be Bhakta Ramadas.
Bhakta Ramadas and construction of temple Bhadrachalarama temple was constructed by Kancharla Gopanna popularly known as Bhakta Ramadas in the year 1674 A.D.

Bhakta Ramadasa:-

Bhadrachalam RamdasSri Kancharla Gopanna popularly known as Bhakta Ramadasa or Bhadrachala Ramadasa was born in 1620 AD at Nelakondapalli village of Khammam in Andhra Pradesh and lived for 68 years on this earth.

As per the last verse of his Dasarathi Satakam, his name was Gopanna the son of Linganna Mantri of Atreya Gotram. The Mantri surname is because of the fact that their ancestors were ministers of the then King. Born to pious couples Linganna Murthy and Kamamba, Gopanna was brought up as pious and devoted gentleman. He had developed good taste for music and was an ardent devotee of Lord Rama. As a good singer he devoted his talents in singing in praise of Lord Rama. Many of his cousins and nephews were working in the administration of the royal treasury. His nephew Akkanna who was in the court of then Sultan Taani Shah of Golconda (Abdul Hasan Tana Shah the Nawab of the Qutub Shahi dynasty) had appointed Goppanna as Tahsildar of present Bhadrachalam region.

Construction of temple by Bhakta Ramadasa:-

As a Rama Bhakta Sri Goppanna while conducting his routines of collection of taxes for the royal treasury devoted time for spreading Ramanama also. During his course of duty he visited the temple of Lord Vaikunta Rama at Bhadrachalam. The Rama Bhaktha in him was overwhelmed at the sight of Lord Vaikunta Rama. The temple then was not in good shape and Goppanna thought that the temple requires renovation and reconstruction. He made an appeal to the people of the region, to raise funds to this effect. Basically an agriculture dependent society, they told him to use the tax collected with a promise to replenish the fund after the harvest. In the hope he will be able to replenish the amount in time, Goppanna spent the tax money towards the construction of the temple.

After completion of the construction, his miseries started. Sultan Taani Shah of Golconda had come to know of what Goppanna had done in Bhadrachalam and he dismissed Goppanna from service for misappropriation of royal funds and sentenced him for twelve years of imprisonment. Goppanna was kept in prison in Golkonda and tortured by the Sultan. Twelve long years he was kept there and tortured. Goppanna sought refuge in singing to Lord Rama to get away from the miseries he had to undergo. The out pour from his anguished heart is now popularly known as ‘Dasaradhi Sathakam’. His songs are a reflection of the deeply felt bitter - sweet agonies and ecstasies of a devotee in distress in the form of ‘keertanas’.

Repayment of Goppanna’s debet by Lord Sri Rama:-

On hearing His Baktha’s anguish, Sri Rama and Sri Lakshmana went to the Sultan’s palace on that very night woke up Sultan and paid the money due to the royal treasury through Goppanna. Sultan was perplexed to see the divine looking young lads repaying the money due from Goppanna. The young lads got the release papers signed by the Sultan. Unaware about the repayment of the money, next morning Goppanna had found the release papers signed by Sultan in his bedside. To the astonishment of Sultan the release papers were presented from the prison next day morning. The mohars repaid by the Lord were brought in front of the Sultan in the morning. The mohars had the Pattabhishekam scene on one side and the picture of another Rama Bhaktha, Anjaneya on the other side.

 Visiting places in and around Bhadrachalam:-

Parnasala:-

This is supposed to be the exact spot where Rama, during his vanavasa in Dandakaranya, constructed a hermitage and spent his exile with his consort Sita and brother Laxmana. Agastya had selected this spot for Rama and is about 35 km from Bhadrachalam.

The picturesque display of some scenes of vanavasa could be seen at Parnashala. One can see the foot prints of Sita devi, Mosaic of Maarecha in the guise of golden deer and Ravana in the guise of Sanyasi for Bhikshatana. Also found in the vicinity are Sita Vaagu-where she had bathed and collected the turmeric and Kunkum from nearby stones and the marks of her saree on the rock near Sita Vaagu. These are all the visiting places for the pilgrims. As Ravana kidnapped Sita, the deity at Parnashala is called Sokarama. The tracks of the chariot of Ravana while kidnapping Sita can be seen on the mountain on the other side of the river bank at Parnashala temple.


Jattayu Paaka (Yetapaka):-

This Place is situated from 2 km away from Bhadrachalam. According to Itihasas, the bird Jatayuvu, a devotee of Rama had obstructed Ravana while he was proceeding on the chariot after kidnapping Sita. After the fearful battle between Ravana and Jataayuvu, the heavily injured bird had waited at this place in search of Rama. A wing of this bird fell at Rekkapalli, about 55 km from here, in V.R. Puram Mandal.

Dummugudem:-

Here Rama is called the Atmarama. The story reveals that Rama killed 14000 demons headed by the brothers Khara and Dushana. As the village was said to be built upon the ashes of these demons, the place is named after as Dummugudem.

Gundala:-

It is a place 5 km away from the sacred town Bhadrachalam, where springs of hot water could be traced on the river bank when we dig a pit at any place in this area. It is believed that the divine trios (Brahma Vishnu Maheswara) had their dips in winter season according to Brahma Purana.

Sree Rama Giri:-

This place is situated on the bank in the down stream of river Godavari, about 55 km from here. The deity of Yoga Rama Temple is on a hill and is named as Ramagiri.

Venkatareddipeta:-

This place is situated 12 km away from bhadrachalam, where lord venkateswara swami kalyan will celebrate every year.

Gannavaram:-

This place is situated 25 km away from bhadrachalam, where BOTLAMMA will receive prayers from the devotees.

 Bhadrachalam Temple Timings:-

Morning – 4:30 AM to 11:30 AM
Evening – 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM.
       
   
Name of Seva & Pooja 
   
Abhishekam (at Bhadra Temple)    
7.00AM to 8.00AM
     Rs. 50/-       
Alaya Chuttu Seva   
8.00PM to 8.30PM
    Rs. 200/-       
Antaralaya Abhishekam ( Mulavarulu on every Sunday)   
7.00AM to 8.00AM
     Rs.250/-       
Astotharanamarchana   
8.30AM to 8.00PM
     Rs.100/-       
Nitya Kalyana Ubhayam    
9.30AM to 11.00AM
    Rs. 601/-        Couple
Rajata Ratha Seva    
from 6.30PM
     Rs.1116/-         
Sahasranamarchana   
8.30AM to 9.30AM.
     Rs.50/-       
Sakalbhishtaprada Sree Ramapuja   
8.30AM every day
     Rs.116/-       
Suvarna Pushpa Astothara Namarchana (on Every Sunday)   
8.30AM to 9.30AM
     Rs.250/-       
Suvarna Tulasi Astotharanamarchana (on every Saturday)   
8.30AM to 9.30AM
     Rs.250/-       
Vahana Seva (Garuda, Hamsa, Hanumantha, Rajadhiraja)   
8.00PM to 8.30PM
    Rs. 516/

Fairs and festivals:-

  Two major festivals are being celebrated every year which were introduced and traditionally celebrated right from the tenure of Bhakta Ramadas. "Vykuntha Ekadasi" a religious festival that attracts lakhs(hundred thousand) of devotees from all over the country at this famous shrine Bhadrachalam, is celebrated in the months of either December or January in 'Dhanur Masam' on the day of either Pushya or Margasira shuddha Ekadasi. The ten day festival called Adhyayanotsavams and Dasavatara Mahotsavams(10 incarnations) of Sri Maha Vishnu are preceded to Vykuntha Ekadasi Fete.

  On Dasami day , the colourful Teppotsavam is a special attraction to the devotees . The deities of Rama and his consort Sita will be taken into rounds on the holi river Godavari on a well decorated "Hamsavahana" ( on the swan shaped motor launch ) amid display of crackers and stupendous illumination . And on the auspicious Vykuntha Ekadasi day on the early hours exactly at 5 am Vykuntha dwarams at Northern Gate will be thrown open for darshan to devotees .The devotees believe that they will attain salvation after having Vykuntha Dwara darshan .This holi festival attracts lakhs of pilgrims .    

Vaaggeyakaara Mahotsavams:-

  Vaaggeyakara Mahotsavams are being celebrated every year to commemorate Bhakta Ramadasa, a vaaggeyakara and an ardent devotee of Sri Rama. Dhyana Mandir, a prayer hall was constructed in 1972 in memory of Bhakta Ramadasa by Mr. Neelamaraju Venkata Sheshaiah, the then editor of Andhra Prabha by collecting funds from public through donations from Andhra Prabha (Telugu Daily News Paper) readers. Since then, the Vaggeyakaara mahotsavams are being celebrated during Mukkoti Ekadasi by inviting renowned musicians.

Sri Rama Navami:-


Sri Sitha Rama Kalyanam is performed in a grand scale at Bhadrachalam in Andhra Pradesh,India , every year on Sri Rama Navami day, millions of people turn up to witness the Sri Sitha Rama Kalyanam at Bhadrachalam, and also take a dip in the sacred river Godavari. Performing Sitha Rama kalyanam on Rama Navami day is special tradition followed in AndhraPradesh.It is at this templer site that, long after Ramavatara, Sri Mahavishnu manifested Himself as Rama again to fulfil a promise He made to His Bhakta Bhadra, who continued his Tapas through Yugas, praying for the grace of the Bhagawan Sri Ramachandra murthy.Then Sri Mahavishnu manifested himself as Vykuntha Rama and rushed to his devotee Bhadra , signaling his arrival by blowing 'Shanku',accompanied by his consort Sita and brother Laxmana , resembling that of 'Gajendra Moksham ' - Thus , the moorthies of Rama ( having four hands ) - Shanku on the right , Chakra at his left and Dhanurbhana ( Bow and Arrow in the rest two hands ) , Sita had condescended on the left lap of Rama and brother ( at Rama's left ) are existed . And the hill place where the Deities were seated on , was the head place of Bhadra - achalam ( hill ) ,thus this shrine was transformed into Bhadrachalam .

 How to reach Bhadrachalam:-

By bus:-
From Khammam, It is better to go catch a Bus for Bhadrachalam. Direct rail connectivity from khammam doesn't exists. 2.5 Hours journey from Khammam to Bhadrachalam by bus.

By train:-
Khammam to Badhrachalam_Road a passenger train does its service(Train No. 57254). From Badhrachalam_Road every 15 min a bus service available to Badhrachalam town.

By Air:-
Rajamundry is the nearest airpot to  Bhadrachalam

Ayodhya - Rama Janma Bhoomi

Ayodhya:-



Ayodhya was a magnificent and holy city of ancient India that was the capital of Hindu kingdom of Kosala. The city of Ayodhya is known for being the court of King Dasharatha, who was the father of Lord Rama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Valmiki is believed to have begun writing the famous devotional poem Valmiki Ramayana here itself. Ayodhya also holds important position among Jain religion as it is the birth place of two important Jain tirthankaras. The city later came under the rule of Gupta empire and also got influenced with Buddhism, with various Buddhist temples being built here. Ayodhya later came under the rule of Mughal empire, slowly losing strategic importance to Lucknow and Kanpur.

Thiru Ayodhi/Ayodhya/Mokshapuri/Mukthi Kshetram/Ram Janmaboomi is one of the 108 Divya Desams of Lord Vishnu located in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. This is one of 108 Divya Desam. Birth place of Lord Sri Rama. Ayodhya is situated on the bank of River Sarayu. This place is 7 kms from Faizabad. This is a popular pilgrimage centre. The ancient city of Ayodhya according to Ramayana was founded by Manu. This is one of the seven sacred cities. According to Purana. Ayodha is famous for its close association of Ramayana. It’s a city full of sacred temples and historical significance. Atharvana Veda describes Ayodhya as “a city built by Gods and being prosperous as Paradise itself”. Various faiths have grown and prospered simultaneously in different periods. Jains consider that 5 tirthankars were born in Ayodhya and the first Tirthankar Rishabadev is one amoung them.

Legend:-


Ayodhya is located on the right bank of the river Sarayu, 6 km from Faizabad. This town is closely associated with Rama, Seventh incarnation of Vishnu. According to the Ramayana, the city is 9,000 years old, and was founded by Manu, the first man in the Vedas, and law-giver of the Hindus. Other sources hold that it was founded by its namesake, King Ayudh. For centuries, it was the capital for the Surya dynasty, of which Lord Rama was the most celebrated king. At the time it was known as Kaushaldesa.

Skanda and other puranas list Ayodhya as one of the seven most sacred cities of India, as it has been the backdrop for much of Hindu scripture. Today it is predominantly a religious destination with its historical significance and sacred temples. The Atharvaveda described Ayodhya as "a city built by God and being prosperous as paradise itself."

Its first ruling king was Ikshvaku, of the solar clan Suryavansa and eldest son of Vaivasvata Manu. The sixth king of this line, Prithu, is linguistically the etymology of earth, or `Prithivi’. Mandhatri was a later king of the region, and the 31st king of his descent was Harischandra, known for his truthfulness, or Sathya-sandhata. His lineeage was Surya Vamsa and, in turn known for their honesty as rulers. Raja Sagar of the same clan performed the Asvamedha Yajna, and mythology holds that his great-grandson Bhagiratha brought the river Ganges to the earth through penance. Later came the great King Raghu, after whom the dynasty was called Raghuvamsa. His grandson was Raja Dasaratha, of the Kausala dynasty, and father of Rama.

Ayodhya is a city of worship. Several religions have prospered simultaneously as well as at different periods of time, and elements of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Islam can be found in the city. In Jainism, for example, five Tirthankaras were born here, including Adinath, first Tirthankar,Ajitnath, second Tirthankar,Abhinandanath (fourth Tirthankar), Sumatinath, fifth Tirthankar, and Anantnath, fourteenth Tirthankar. Ayodhya demonstrates Ganga-Jamuni culture in the Hanumangarhi temple, built by Nawab of Awadh. Sundar Bhavan, a temple of Rama, had a devoted caretaker, Munne Mian, who looked after it for fifty years until his death in 2004. According to Jain Agams, it is the second eternal city after Shikharji, and will never vanish or disappear during the changing epochs.

Sri Ram Janma bhoomi:-


 This is the main place of worship in Ayodhya. This is the site of the ancient citadel of Ramkot which stands on the elevated ground in the western part of the city. Lot of checking is there. We are not allowed to take anything inside. One has to walk a lot to reach the main place. They have kept the idol of Seetha Sri Rama and Lakshmana. It is so far we hardly get to see clearly and has to imagine and feel happy. We have the darshan of Hanuman to the side
This is the place where the work is going on for the construction of Sri Rama mandir. There is a model of the temple is exhibited. Pillars with carvings, designed ceiling material, doors and all the designed stones to the sides of the walls are ready.

Ancient Administration of Ayodhya:-


This mythological story is not altogether a figment of imagination. The fact of Manu`s being the first known king of India with Ayodhya as his capital is corroborated by the Indian Puranas, the Mahabharata and the Arthashastra of Kautilya. Manu Vaivasvata is said to be the originator of the human race, and all the dynasties mentioned in the Puranas spring from him. Ikshvaku, the eldest of Manu`s nine sons was the first king of Ayodhya and got from his father the kingdom of the Madhyadesa as his share. He was the founder of the solar dynasty which comprises the three lines of Ayodhya, Videha, and Vaishala and the Saryatas.

Mandhatri, son of Yuvanashva, of the Ikshavaku family was a famous king of Ayodhya. He ascended the throne after nineteen generations from Ikshvaku. The account of his birth from the left rib of his father as a result of his drinking the holy sacrificial water intended for his queen, and his being called Mandhatri because of what Indra said at the prince`s birth, invented evidently to explain his name, is a late fabrication fashioned with great ingenuity. Mandhatri is said to have obtained half the throne of India and conquered the whole earth in one day, According to the Puranic accounts Mandhatri was a great Chakravartin, and a samrat. He was considered the fifth avatara (incarnation) of Vishnu. He was a great sacrificer and is said to have performed a hundred Ashvamedha yajnas in Rajasthan.

After the rise of the realm to great heights in the reigns of Mandhatri, Purukutsa and Trasadasyu, the empire appears to have remained, if at all, merely in name, and we do not meet with any important king till we come to Trayyaruna, Satyavrata-Trisanku and Harishchandra. Trishanku is the subject of numerous fantastic tales in the Puranas. Trishanku was succeeded by Harishchandra, the embodiment of truth. He was a samrat and is said to have performed Rajasuya. The story of Harishchandra, whose truthfulness was put to very severe tests by Vishwamitra, is well-known. Sixth in descent from Harishchandra was Bahu. Sagara, so named because he was born with the poison which his step-mother administered to his mother, was born posthumously to Bahu in the hermitage of the sage Aurva. Sagara subjugated all contemporary powers and was the emperor of the whole of the North.

Aja and Dasaratha are some of the most famous king`s who preceded the age of Lord Rama. Dasaratha, the father of Rama, was a valiant and all-conquering monarch who led his victorious campaigns throughout the length and breadth of Northern India, and spread the Aryan culture far and wide. The story of Rama is particularly important in Ayodhya as it brings south India definitely into view for the first time.

Religion of Ayodhya:-


Ayodhya had primarily been a Hindu city. But religions like Buddhism and Jainism had also flourished in the city with great gutso. Ayodhya had also become a great centre of Vaishnavism. It was one of the nine `Yantras`-places selected for the propagation of the Ramanuja`s philosophy of Vishistadwaita and thus counteracting the growing influence of Islam. Ramananda, a famous disciple of Ramanuja School of philosophy, was closely associated with Ayodhya.

Parikramas:-


Circumbulation of important religious places is also an important religious ceremony being followed by the devotees as a regular practice. It involves paying homage to different deities in many temples that one covers in the parikrama. These circumbulations are of varying durations. Some of them are described below-

(A) Antargrahi Parikrama:-


It is completed in one day, the devotees begin it after the holy dip in Saryu from Nageshwarnath temple then going through Ramghat, Sita kund, Mani Parvat, Brahma Kund & reaching Kanak Bhawan as its final destination.

(B) Panchkoshi:-


 16 km of distance is covered in this parikrama which starts from 11th day of Kartik month. It covers Chakrathirtha ghat, Naya ghat, Ram ghat, Dashrath Kund, Jogiana, Ranopali, Jalpanala, Mahatag bagh.

(C) Chaudah Koshi Parikrama:-


 covers the religious shrines situated both in Ayodhya & Faizabad, a distance of 45 km, normally held on Akshay Navami & completed in within 24hours.

(D) Chaurasi Koshi Parikrama:-


 starts on Ramnavami that falls in the Chaitra month of Hindu calendar.

Festivals & fairs:-

That continue to occupy the whole year are an important hallmark of Ayodhya. Some of the important ones are- Shravan Jhula in July-August, Parikrama Mela (Oct.-Nov.), Ramnavami (March-April), Rathyatra (June-July), Saryu snan (holy dip) in Oct.-Nov., Ram Vivah-Nov., Ramayan Mela in Dec., Jan., snan on every Amavasya & Purnima. Bharat Kund Mela, Guptar Ghat Mela, Balark Tirth Mela (Bharat Kund), Suker Skshetra Mela, Makhaura Mela etc.
Ram Navami- Is celebrated as birthday of Lord Ram which falls on the ninth day of bright fortnight of Chaitra (Hindi) month in March/April. Almost all the temples of this holy place are decorated and special arrangements are made to celebrate this day. People from all over India and even from abroad throng this place. The entire city has a glittering look and a very enthusiastic festival mood where the chimes of bells alongwith the sound of conches resonate all around.
Shravan Jhula Mela- This unique festival is celebrated in the Shravan month (July-August). The festival begins on third day of the second half of this month and lasts, till the month end. As per the tradition the idols of Lord Ram, Laxman & Sita are taken to a swing and then finally taken to Mani Parvat. The swinging is joined by a vast gathering of devotees & finally deities are brought back to the temple. It is an age old tradition & continues to be followed till date with great deal of enthusiasm & dedication.

Places of interest:-

The Hanuman Garhi:-


Situated in the center of the town, this temple is approachable by a flight of 76 steps. Legend has it that Hanuman lived here in a cave and guarded the Janambhoomi or Ramkot. The main temple contains the statue of Maa Anjani, with Bal Hanuman seated on her lap. The faithful believe that all their wishes are granted with a visit to this holy shrine.

A massive structure in the shape of a four sided fort with circular bastions at each corner houses a temple of Hanuman and is the most popular shrine in Ayodhya.

Kanak BhawanKanak Bhawan:-



Kanak Bhawan is one of the finist temple in Ayodhya. It was built by queen of tikamgarh, virshbhanu kuvari in 1891. the main temple is built around an opened inner court in which stands a small shrine of Rampada . the main idols installed inside the garbhagriha are of Devi Sit & Lord Rama . the sanctrum is well decorated .

Ramkot:-


The chief place of worship in Ayodhya is the site of the ancient citadel of Ramkot which stands on an elevated ground in the western part of the city. Although visited by pilgrims throughout the year, this sacred place attracts devotees from all over India and abroad, on `Ram Navami’, the day of Lord’s birth, which is celebrated with great pomp and show, in the Hindu month of Chaitra (March-April).

Swargdwar:-


The strip of land from Sahasradhara to Nageshwarnath temple is commonly denoted as Swargdwar. The buildings on the Ghat facing the river were mainly built during the reign of Nawab Safdar Jung and his Hindu minister Naval Rai, who is credited in in particular for their construction. The buildings and the Ghats offer a fine view. In recent years the river bed has shifted northwards, leaving the Ghats, therefore the new Ghats were built around 1960 along with the new bridge. The 'pairi' as it is popularly known offers an excellent view from the bridge.

Mani Parvat:-


stands about 65 feet high and some scholars think it to be Buddhist orgin. According to legends it was while Lord Hanuman was carrying the hill bearning the Sanjeevani Booti (herb) for Lakshmans wounds from Himalayas on way to Lanka a portion broke off and fell at Aydhoa and this is that very mound.

Guptar GhatGuptar Ghat:-


contains a series of fine well - maintained ghats which were built by Raja darshan singth in the 1st half of the 19th century. On top of the ghats a palace was built which comprises a Sita -Ram temple in the centre of the courtyard . the shrines of chakrahari and guptahari exist here with a small narasimha temple.

Suraj Kund:-


3 km. from ayodhya is suraj kund, a large tank with ghats around built by the rulers of surya vans hog ayodhya, as a homage to the sun god. The spot os ideal for a calm and quiet holiday.

Mani Parbat and Sugriv Parbat:-


The first of these ancient earth mounds is identified with a stupa built by the Emperor Ashoka, while the second is believed to be an ancient monastery.

Treta ke Thakur:-


This temple stands at the place where Rama is said to have performed the Ashvamedha Yajnya. About 300 years ago the Raja of kulu built a new temple here, which was improved by Ahalyabai Hokar of Indore during 1784, at the same time the adjoining Ghats were also built. The initial idols in black sandstone were recovered from Saryu and placed in the new temple, famous as Kaleram-ka-Mandir.

Nageshwarnath TempleNageshwarnath Temple:-



The temple of Nageshwarnath is said to have been established by Kush the son of Rama. Legend has it that Kush lost his armlet, while bathing in the Saryu, which was picked up by a Nag-Kanya, who fell in love with him. As she was a devotee of Shiva, Kush erected this temple for her. It is said that this has been the only temple to have survived till the time of Vikramaditya, the rest of city had fallen into ruins and was covered by dense forests. It was by means of this temple that Vikramaditya was able to locate Ayodhya and the sites of different shrines here. The festival of Shivratri is celebrated here with great pomp and splendor.

Ayodhya to Dasrath Bhavan:-


Dotted with so many religious places and holy shrines, Ayodhya is a venerated place that has been revered by all, fraction of Hindu ideology. This holy land bears close association with Lord Ram, the hero in the great epic Ramayana. Almost all the places in Ayodhya in one or the other way are related to this legendary ruler who is regarded as an icon of virtue. Dasrath Bhavan is not an exception to this common phenomenon and it is the place where in Raja Dasarath believed to reside with his kith and kin. Now the place houses a temple, which depicts Ram, Sita and Lakshmana as the chief deities. Though the shrine is not much bigger in size, its environ provide such serene and tranquil feeling that the devotee would be able to sense the presence of the supreme power.

Open Months:-


All year, Open Hours: 5 am - 2 pm and 4 - 9 pm

Other places of interest:-


Rishabhadeo Jain Temple, Brahma Kund, Amawan Temple, Tulsi Chaura, Laxman Quila, Angad Tila, Shri Rama Janaki Birla Temple, Tulsi Smarak Bhawan, Ram ki Paidi, Kaleramji ka Mandir, Datuvan Kund, Janki Mahal, Gurudwara Brahma Kund Ji, Ram Katha Museum, Valmiki Ramayan Bhawan, are among other places of interest in Ayodhya.

Temple Timings:-


9am-11am,4pm-8pm.
Arti-11.30am,7pm,9.30pm (summers),
9am-11am,4pm-8pm,
Arti-12noon, 6.30, 9pm (winters), opens on all days.

How to reach:-

By Air:-


Ayodhya can access both the airports of Lucknow (135 km) and Varanasi (190 km) with equal ease. Lucknow is well connected to the rest of the country with Indian Airlines, Jet Airways and Air Sahara flights. The Varanasi airport connects Delhi, Kolkata, Lucknow and Khajuraho on a regular basis.

By Rail:-


Faizabad is at a distance of 6km from Ayodhya and is three hours from both Varanasi and Lucknow by train on a broad gauge railway line. From Ayodhya to Varanasi two trains are available – the Farakka Express and the Saryu Yamuna Express. There is also a local train service from Ayodhya to Faizabad.

By Road:-


The nearest bus hub to Ayodhya is at Faizabad (6 km) and it is connected to Lucknow, Allahabad and Gorakhpur in regular bus service. An early morning bus service to Sunauli, for Nepal from Faizabad bus stand is also available. The distance from some major cities are : Lucknow – 141 km, Varanasi – 190 km, Allahabad – 167 km, Gorakhpur - 140 km.

Gokarna Lingam in shape of "Cow's Ear"

Gokarna:-

The meaning of Gokarna is "Cow's Ear". This sacred place is located between the Gangavali and Agnashini river mouth and it is named for the ear-shaped meeting of two rivers. It is also believed that Gokarna gets its name from the legend in which Lord Shiva emerged from the ear of a cow.
As Ravana tried to pull the Atmaling it came out in the form of  Cow’s Ear hence named the place Gokarna (Go- Cow + Karna – Ear).
The Mahabaleshwar temple at Gokarna is respected as a Shaiva pilgrimage centre than a tourist destination and as important as Kashi and Rameshwara pilgrimage centers for Hindus. Gokarna is also respected as "siddi kshetra" and "Mukti Stala" of Karnataka.
Gokarna situated in coastal region of Karnataka about 55 kms from Karwar. It is described as a Shiva Centre, as important as Kashi and Rameshwar. History has it that the Atmalinga brought by Ravana got struck here and his efforts to extricate it resulted in his throwing the coverings of the Linga to Dhareshwar, Gunavanteshwara, Murdeshwar and Shejjeshwar temples.
The Mahabaleshwara is one of the major temples here. The deity here is two-armed, standing, and atleast 1500 years old. The Bhadrakali and Venkataramana temples, Kotiteertha tank etc., are other holy places here. Gokarna is also famous for its beautiful virgin beaches and breathtaking landscapes.
There is a towering six-foot tall Shivalinga present in Mahabaleshwar Temple, known as Atmalinga and it said to be nearly 1500 years old. According to Hindu mythology, the Shivalinga was rooted in Gokarna by Lord Ganesha. Impressed by Ravana’s stringent penance, Lord Shiva was about to present him with the Atmalinga. However, the other Gods, fearing that it might endow him with unbeatable powers, requested Lord Ganesha to take it away. Heeding their request, Lord Ganesha placed the linga in Gokarna.


Shiva Linga is placed in a square Saligrama Peetha with a hole in the middle. This central hole enables devotees to easily view the top of the Shiva Linga. Apart from this Shiva Linga, the temple also has a 1500 year old carved stone figure of Lord Shiva. People belonging to Hindu religion pay a visit to this temple in order to carry out the final rituals of their deceased relatives. It is said that devotees who catch a glimpse of the linga are showered with blessings. Mahabaleshwar Temple is thronged by hundreds of devotees during the occasion of Shivarathri.

Gokarna is a celebrated pilgrimage center on the coast of Karnataka, enshrining the Aatma Lingam Mahabaleshwar. It is regarded as one of the 7 Mukti Stalas of Karnataka, and it has been revered by the hymns of the Tamil Saints (Nayanmars) of the 1st millennium CE. Gokarna is located at a distance of 170 km from Mangalore, the nearest airport. The seven muktistalas of Karnataka are Udupi, Kollur, Subramanya, Kumbasi, Kodeshwara, Sankaranarayana and Gokarna. All these shrines are also known as Parasurama Kshetras, created on the land reclaimed from the sea by Parasurama. This is the only Tevara Stalam in Karnataka (Tulu Nadu) hailed by the Tamil songs of the Bhakti movement.

They are also called as Parasurama Kshetras as they are created on the land claimed from the sea by Parashurama. The place of Gokarna is also referred as the Kashi of the South. This place is also popular for Hindus performing the death rites for the departed ancestors at this place.

When Lord Rudra was sent to Patalaloka by Brahma to perform penance, he eventually returns through the ear of the mother earth and blesses her with the name “Gokarna”. Also this place served as a womb for Rudra. It is called as Rudra Yoni and Adi Gokarna.

The Temple:-


 This west facing temple enshrines Mahabaleshwar, in a square Saligrama Peetham. A golden rekha on the peetham, and a small hole in its middle permits devotees to have a glimpse of the top of the Aatma Lingam. The six foot tall Shivalingam is encolsed inside the peetham, and it can be seen only once in 40 years, when the Ashta bandana Kumbhahishekam is performed. There are also shrines to  Vinayaka, Chandikeswara, Aadi Gokarneswara and Dattatreya. Gokarnanayaki is also known as Taamragowri, and her shrine is behind the sanctum.



The sacred thirtham here is the Koti theertham. The image of Vinayaka bears a dent, said to have been caused when Ravana, enraged at the loss of the Atma Lingam had hit him.
 The six feet tall Shivalingam is enclosed inside the peetham. There is a golden rekha on the peetham. The small hole in the middle permits the devotees to have a glimpse of the top of the Atma Lingam. Only once in 40 years, the Lingam can be seen when the Ashta bandana Kumbhahishekam is performed.

Legend of Gokarna:-


In Threthayuga, Ravana (Demon/Asura King of Lanka) reaches Kailasa and performed rigorous penance to get the "Atma Linga" from Lord Shiva, as Ravana's mother expressed a keen desire to worship the atmalinga of Lord Shiva.

After a long penance, Lord shiva gave the "Atma linga" to Ravana as a boon and instructs Ravana to carry it home by walk, that he should never place it on the earth even for a short while failing which the linga would get eternally embedded at the place were he broke his commands.

Lord Maha vishnu learned that Ravana will become all powerful by worshipping the 'Atma linga' and menace to the world and Ravana's conviction that nobody could defeat him, once he acquired the very power of Lord Shiva. Maha vishnu devised a plan to install the linga somewhere and as he thought that Lord Ganapathi was alone capable of doing it, he along with all the gods pleased Ganapathi to execute the plan. Lord Ganapathi accepts and reaches Gokarna as a Brahmin boy.

Ravana asking lord Ganapathi to hold the Atma linga As Ravana was coming near Gokarna. Maha Vishnu who had known well that Ravana was punctual in performing his periodical rites (Sandyavandhana), hides sun with his Sudarshana Chakra (Wheel). Thinking that it was time to perform the evening rites, Ravana finds a Brahmin boy and asked him to hold the Atma linga in his hand till he came back after finishing the rites.

Lord Ganapathi agreed to hold the linga on one condition that he would do so till he would be able to bear the weight of Linga and that thereafter he would call Ravana three times and if failed to come to him by then he would place the linga on the earth.

Lord Ganapathi calls Ravana three times when he was performing his rites and places the linga on the earth and he vanished. The Atma linga at once got firmly entrenched in the earth. Ravana learned that he had been tricked by the Gods.

The depressed demon king Ravana was deeply agitated and tried to pull up the linga, but the linga did not budge a little. It resulted in his throwing the coverings of the Linga to Dhareshwar, Gunavanteshwara, Murdeshwar and Shejjeshwar temples. Ravana was unable to lift the Linga from the ground again and called shiva linga as Mahabala (you are too strong). And ever since the Linga illustrious as Mahabaleshwara.

Lord Shiva learnt all these from Vayu deva (Wind god), and came on to Earth with Godess Parvathi devi and his train of Gods, he visited these five places and worshipped the linga which had now taken five forms. He acknowledged that these five places would be his "Pancha kshetras" (Five Holy Places).

It is said that the second part of the Lingam got twisted around and came to be known as Murdeshwar. Overlooking the sea, there is a lovely temple constructed over this part of the Lingam. This place known as Murdeshwar is situated between Bhatkal and Honnavar, on the west coast highway.

The remnant of the Atmalingam which came off like a blade, is known as Dhareshwar (Dhar means a sharp edge) and is at a place called Dhareshwar nearby.

Interestingly, there are a total of six temples on the coast, between Gokarna and Kasargod, all of which show Ganesha in the same posture. These temples are located at Idagunji (66 Km), Anegudde (150 Km), Hattiangady (142 Km), Mangalore (SharavuMahaganapathy, 230 Km) and Kasargod (MadhurMahaganapathy 280 Km).

Also, the legend of the Atmalingam doesn’t end with the Mahabaleshwara temple. It is said that, frustrated with the events, Ravana flung off all the accessories the lingam came with, and as each of them touched the ground, each turned into a lingam! There are 5 such temples around Gokarna. Other than the main temple, these are at Sajjeshwar (the casket carrying the lingam, 35 Kms from Karwar), Dhareshwar  (the string covering the lingam. 45 Km from Gokarna) Gunavanteshwar (the lid of the casket carrying the lingam, 60 Km from Gokarna) Murudeshwar, the cloth covering the lingam, 70 Km from Gokarna).

Attractions of Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple In Karnataka:-


Gokarna is a Hindu pilgrim center of South India. It is one of the most worshiped and celebrated pilgrimage in the coast of Karnataka. The Mahabaleshwar Temple, Gokarna is one of the famous places of Gokarna visited by a large number of devotees every year.

The Mahabaleshwar Temple, Gokarna of Karnataka is regarded as one of the seven Muktisthala temples of Karnataka. This temple is resided by a huge Shivlinga which is called the Atmalinga. According to the Hindu mythology, Lord Ganesha brought this linga here and it got rooted when he kept it on the ground. This linga was supposed to be given to Ravana by Lord Shiva which would make him very powerful. The other Gods were horrified thinking the result of it. Thus they begged before Lord Ganesha to help them. Then Ganesha took away the linga from the reach of Ravana and then fixed it on the ground so that nobody can pull it out.

One can have a glimpse of this 6 feet tall linga of the Mahabaleshwar Temple of Gokarna during the occasion Ashtabandhana Kumbhabhishekam that too once in 40 years. As the Mahabaleshwar Temple, Gokarna holds the legacy and heroic deed of Lord Ganesha so there is a Ganesha temple located nearby the main shrine. Other than these two Gods, the Mahabaleshwar Temple in Gokarna is also a shrine for Gods like Chandikeswara, Aadi Gokarneswara, Gokarnanayagi and Dattatreya.

The devotees always bath in the sea before entering into the temple, as according to the Hindu mythology it is said that one should purify his body and mind before making any prayer to God. There is also a shivlinga made of sand which the devotees worship.

OM Beach and ocean:-


The beach appeared to be in the shape of Om (omkaram) when it is observed from Helicopter/Aeroplane. Foreigners are still visiting the beach and staying for some days at beach premises. But foregners are not allowed to the inside of the temple premises. The ocean scenary is very beautiful. The sunset and sunrise is very very loving atmosphere.

Ganesh temple:-


Famous Ganesh temple. Very near darshan like sparsha darshan (touching of statue) is allowed. One can see the Yagnopaveetha, shade of sudarshan Chakra, Naagaabharana on the statue can be observed. All these were at the time of darshan of Shiva to Ganesh at the time of Shiva's Aatma linga prathistaapana.

Mahabaleshwar temple:-


Famous temple of Shiva . As Ravanasura tried his best with all his best to lift the shiva linga, the linga tooks the shape of an ear of the cow. So it is known as Gokarna. The devotees are allowed to see the linga in garbhalaya and every One can touch the shivalinga and can offer bel leaves and can perform rudrabhisheka with their own hands .

Datta mandir:-


The place where Dattatreya performed penance. Now the place is Termed as Datta mandir. Regular pujas and abhishekas, bhajans are performing in the mandir.

Shivmandir:-


This shivamandir is in the town of Gokarna . Shripada shreevallabha performed abhisheka at that time to this sivalinga. Now it is under control of private persons. One have to enquire about this place in the Gokarna. Only limited persons only knows. It is advised to contact old aged priests of the temple/town.

Temple timings:-


Morning 6.00 A,M. to 12.00 P.M. and evening 4.00 P.M. to 8.00 P.M.

Daily pujas:-


 Ekarudrabhisheka, Ekadasarudrabhisheka, Harathi, Bel leaves pujas are performing in the inside of the temple. Nominal charges are collecting by the temple for Pujas/abhishekas. Sahasranama, ashtotra pujas are performing in Parvathi temple. Pujas are also performing in the Ganesh temple.

It is advised to contact Sri Ramachandrarao.Jambhe,purohit, radham street in Gokarna for performing all the pujas/abhishekas. It was observed that he is having good swara of rudra mantras and highly co-operative and respectable person. I am advising each and every devotee to visit the place Gokarna and have the blessings of Lord Shiva and Dattatreya.

Festivals:-


Shivaratri festival, observance of the birthday of Lord Shiva, is celebrated in the temple town in February/March, when a very large number of pilgrims visit the shrine. During this festival, Rathyatra  is also held when images of Shiva and other deities are installed in the chariot and it is then ceremonially pulled through the town by devotees, accompanied by the drum bands. The Rathayatra starts from the Shri Maha Ganapati Temple at the terminus of the main market street, also known as the 'Car Street'.

How to Reach:-

By Air:-

There is no airport in Gokarna. The nearest airport is at Pune which is about 120kms away. From the airport you can hire a cab or board private buses to reach the district.

By Train:-

The nearest railhead is Wathar in Satara, about 47 km from Gokarna however, the most convenient and well-connected railhead is Pune.

By Road:-
Mahabaleshwar is connected to major towns and cities in the region. From Mumbai, Mahabaleshwar via Pune is 290kms; Panchgani to Mahabaleshwar is 19 kms and Pune to Mahabaleshwar is 120kms. Regular buses ply from Kumata, Karwar, Goa and Mangalore also.

Sri Kukke Subramanya Swamy Temple ,Dashina Karnataka


 Kukke Subramanya :-


 Kukke Subramanya (Tulu: ಕುಕ್ಕೆ ಸುಬ್ರಹ್ಮಣ್ಯ Kannada: ಕುಕ್ಕೆ ಸುಬ್ರಹ್ಮಣ್ಯ) is a Hindu temple located in the village of Subramanya in the Sullia taluk of Dakshina Kannada District near Mangalore, Karnataka, India. The temple is one of the pristine pilgrimage locations in India. Here Lord Subrahmanya is worshipped as the lord of all serpents. The epics relate that the divine serpent Vasuki and other serpents found refuge under Lord Subrahmanya when threatened by Garuda.

Kukke Lapped in the luxurious abundance of the beauty of the nature the village of Subramanya lies in the Sullia Taluk in Dakshina Kannada with a sancity which very few places can boast of. The temple is situated in the heart of the village. Nature reveals herself in all her unhidden beauty in the rivers, forests and mountains which the temples is surrounded by. It is about a 105 KM from Mangalore and can be easily reached by train,buses or taxis.Subramanya used to be called as Kukke Pattana in the past. In the 'Shankara Vijaya' Anandagiri observes that Sri Shankaracharya camped here for a few days during his religious expedition (Digvijaya). Shankaracharya referred to this place as 'Bhaje Kukke Lingam' in his 'Subrahmanya Bhujangaprayata Stotram'.Sri Subrahmanya kshetra has been brilliantly described in the 'Thirthakshetra Mahimanipurana' chapter of the Sahyadrikhanda comprised in the Sanatkumara Samhita of Skanda Purana. This kshetra is situated in the banks of the river 'Dhara' which originates in the Kumara mountain and proceeds to the western sea.

According to ancient lore, the temple has been created at the spot where the king of snakes Vasuki prayed to Lord Shiva and asked him to protect snakes from the wrath of Garuda. Pleased by the penance, Lord Shiva sent Subramanya to protect the snakes and since then he has been worshipped as the protector of snakes.

One of the interesting aspects of the temple is the Garuda tower. The silver tower has been constructed to protect devotees from the poisonous fumes of Vasuki's breath. It is believed that Vasuki resides inside the temple. Ashlesha Bali and Sarpa Samskara are two of the important poojas that are conducted in the temple.

In the past, Subramanya was known as Kukke Pattana. There are many shrines which you can visit while at the place some of which include. Uttaradi Mutt, Biladwara, Kumaradhaara River, Rudrapada, Kashikatte Ganapathi Temple and many others. Devotees worship at the temple with the belief that they will be able to reach their desires immediately. You will get access to quality facilities when you visit the place. The temples guest house offers accommodation to the devotees and visitors. Food is free to both devotees and visitors and its cuisine is authentic Indian tradition.

The Rishis also found it difficult to go on with their penance and hence they went to Lord Shiva and requested him to redress their grievances. Luckily enough, it was the seventh day since his son Subrahmanya was born, and through this child aged seven days only, the demon Tarakasura was slain in a hand-to-hand fight, and Sri Subrahmanya permanently made his abode nearby which is called "Adi Subramanya". Near this temple is a Madhwa Math.


The Name Kukke:-

It has been learnt from legends that Subrahmanya used to be called Kukke Pura or Kukke Pattana in the past.

In more recent times Guru Adi Sankaracharya visited Subrahmanya and referred to this place as 'Bhaje Kukke Lingam' in his composition Subrahmanya Bhujangaprayata Stotram makes, the above evidence all the more convincing.

Features:-

Though the main entrance of the temple faces east, the devotees enter from west through main Gopuram, after taking a holy dip in the Dhara River. A Garuda pillar covered with silver is seen here. According to traditions, the pillar was fixed to protect the devotees from the poison flames which gush out from the breath of Vasuki, existing inside the temple. Next to the pillar is the outer hall and then the inner hall. A platform is seen in the center of sanctum. On the upper platform is the idol of Sri Subrahmanya, on the middle portion is the idol of Vasuki and at lower level is the idol of Shesha. Legends say that the divine serpent Vasuki and other serpents took shelter under Lord Subrahmanya, when they were detained by Garuda. A group of Lingas known as Kukke Lingas are found to the west of inner sanctum. At the southern side of the inner sanctum is the shrine of Lord Bhairava.


Shrine of Uma Maheswara:-

The shrine of Lord Uma Maheswara (Lord Shiva) is seen on the north-eastern side. One can also worship the deities, Surya (the Sun God), Goddess Ambika, Lord Vishnu and Lord Ganesh here. During Navaratri, special worships are offered to Ambika. Mahashivaratri is celebrated for Lord Uma-Maheswara, and on Rathasapthami, rituals are performed for the Sun God, Surya. The idol of Vedavyasa Samputa Narasimha is found in the south-eastern side of the sanctum.  Narasimha Jayanthi is celebrated for the deity during the month of Vaishaka. The shrine of mother Goddess Hosaligamma, lies to the south of the temple. Hosaligamma and Purusharaya are supposed to be the bodyguards of Lord Subrahmanya. Devotees make offerings to the deities such as Kunkumarchana, Mangalarathi and Hannukai. Other notable features of the temple are the Sringeri Mutt, Subrahmanya Mutt, the statue of Ballalaraya and Uttaradi Mutt. Darpana Thirtha, a rivulet, flows from north to south in front of Subrahmanya Mutt.


The Deity of Sri Karttikeya:-


Skanda Purana narrates how, after Karttikeya had slain Tarakasura, Lord Brahma installed the deity of Karttikeya in Subrahmanya Ksetra along with the deity of Vasuki through whom Karttikeya accepts the worship of his devotees. The deity is popularly known as ‘Sri Subrahmanya Svami’. In front of the altar is a slivergaruda-stambha which is said to have been erected and consecrated with special mantras in order to shield the devotees from the poisonous vapors from Vasuki’s mouth within the garbha-grha (altar-room).

Different utsavas (festivals) are held for the Deity according to the season. Some months he is taken on a ratha (chariot), other times he   is taken on a palki (palanquin) accompanied by traditional music and colourful banners.

The biggest festival held here is on Campa-sasti during the month of Margasirsa (Nov/Dec) when the deity is taken out on the huge brahma-ratha.

On the south side of the temple there is a deity of Bhairava Kapalesvara (a fierce aspect of Lord Siva) which is said to have been installed by Karttikeya himself after killing Tarakasura.

On the same side as the shrine of Bhairava are the ancient deities of the mother-goddess Hosaligamma and Purusa-raya. They are considered to be the bodyguards of Subrahmanya.

On the north-east side of the temple compound are the deities of Uma-Mahesvara which were installed by Sri Narada Muni.

History:-

Lord Subramanya is worshiped in the form of a Cobra in the temple of Kukke Subramanya. According to Hindu Mythology Lord Kumaraswamy killed the demon rulers Taraka, Shoorapadmasura and others in a war; and the Lord washed his Shakti Ayudha (Axe in the shape of a bayonet) in this river. Hence forth the name Kumaradhara was given to the river.

After the battle Lord Subrahmanya came to the top of Kumara Parvatha along with his brothers Lord Ganesha, Veerabahu and other aides. Lord Indra along with other Gods received him and prayed the Lord to be kind enough to marry his daughter Devasena. Thus Indra’s daughter Devasena married Kumaraswamy on the banks of Kumaradhara on ‘Margashira Shudda Shashti’.Lord Kumaraswamy also gave darshan to Vasuki the head of nagas, who was making a penance requesting him to be with the Lord permanently. Granting Vasuki’s wish the Lord has made his spiritual presence in this shrine along with his wife Devasena and Vasuki.Every year a famous car festival is being held here on ‘Margashira Shuddha Shashti’ with special poojas to the Lord.

The great Shiva Bhakta and Serpent king Vasuki was performing tapas for years in the Biladwara caves of Kukke Subrahmanya to avoid the attack of Garuda. Following Lord Shiva`s assurance Shanmuka gave darshan to Vasuki and blessed him that he would stay with his parama bhakta in this place forever. Hence the poojas offered to Vasuki or Nagaraja are nothing but the poojas to Lord Subrahmanya.


Kumara swamy offering ‘abhaya’ to Vasuki:-

Previous to Karthikeya, Garuda, the mount of Vishnu was once chasing Vasuki (the king of serpents) and he saw Vasuki washiding in a large cave. Both of them engaged in a severe fight. Kashyapa appeared before them and asked Garuda to stop fromkilling Vasuki, who was devotee of Lord Shiva. Kashyapa suggested Garuda, alternate way of getting food. Kashyapa also advised Vasuki to go to Kumara Kshetra and pray for Lord Shiva.Vasuki arrived Kumara kshetra and performed a severe penance. Pleased with his penance, Lord Shiva appeared to Vasuki and replied: My son Karthikeya will arrive this place after killing the demon king, Tarakasura. Indra will celebrate the marriage of his daughter Devasena with Karthikeya. You will be blessed by Karthikeya, you will be united with Karthikeya and has been worshipped alongside Karthikeya ever since. Garuda will never trouble any more (even today one cannot find Garuda at this place). Vasuki then lived in a place called Moola Subrahmanya, eagerly waiting the arrival of Karthikeya.After killing the demon Tarakasura, Lord Brahma installed the deity of Karthikeya in Subrahmanya Kshetra along with the deity of Vasuki through whom Karthikeya accepts the worship of his devotees and bless them all with fulfillment of their desire immediately. The deity is popularly known as ‘Sri Subrahmanya Swamy’.Dhara River (also called as Kumaradhaara)It is believed that after killing the demon Tarakasura, Karthikeya washed the demon’s blood from his spear in the River Dhara.

In the Treta-yuga, Lord Parasurama came to this place and bathed in the River Dhara in order to absolve himself of the sins of exterminating the kshatriya-race twenty one times over.In Dvapara-yuga, when Samba was cursed with leprosy, he came to bathe in the Dhara in order to become free from the disease.By smearing the mud (mrithika) from the riverbank over his body and bathing in the river, he regained his original beauty.It is believed that Kumaradhara is most efficient place of remedy for elimination the sufferers from even the most incurable diseases.

Dhara River (also called as Kumaradhaara):-


It is believed that after killing the demon Tarakasura, Karthikeya washed the demon's blood from his spear in the River Dhara.

In the Treta-yuga, Lord Parasurama came to this place and bathed in the River Dhara in order to absolve himself of the sins of exterminating the kshatriya-race twenty one times over.

In Dvapara-yuga, when Samba was cursed with leprosy, he came to bathe in the Dhara in order to become free from the disease. By smearing the mud (mrithika) from the riverbank over his body and bathing in the river, he regained his original beauty.

It is believed that Kumaradhara is most efficient place of remedy for elimination the sufferers from even the most incurable diseases.

Mode of worship:-

The Poojas in the Sri Subrahmanya Temple are conducted according to 'Vaikanasa Agama'. The temple is opens at 5 a.m. and the God is woken up to the accompaniment of Nadaswaram. Abishekam is then done to the Lord, followed by Go pooja (worship of the cow). The poojas continue till midday and after naivedya is offered to the Lord, food is served to the surging crowd of devotees.

Ashlesha Bali:-

Ashlesha Bali Puja or Ashlesha Bali pooja is one of the important Kaalasarpa dosha pujas performed at Kukke Subramanya temple. Lord Subramanya is known as the protector from Kaalasarpa dosha and Kuja dosha. Kukke Sri Kshetra temple is the most popular for Sarpadosha puja. Aslesha Bali puja is performed on Aslesha nakshatra in each month.

Aslesha Bali puja in Kukke Subramaya temple will be performed in two shifts – 7:00 am and 9.15 am. Those who want to perform this puja need to report for sankalpa with Purohita inside the temple either at 7:00 am or 9.15 am. After the completion of Homa Poornahuthi Puja, devotees will get prasadam. Devotees believe Shravana masa, Karthika masa, and Margashira masa are the most auspicious months to perform Aslesha bali puja at Kukke temple.

Sarpa Samskara Pooja:-


 Sarpa Samskara Pooja is done to get rid of the Naga Dosham which we got by killing a snake. Sarpa Samskara Pooja pooja is done for two days, so you have to stay there for two days. The pooja ticket is 2500 Rs, Nagaprathista is also included in it. You have to book the ticket one month in advance by sending a DD along with a letter mentioning the date you want to perform the pooja. Mention two more optional dates also. One ticket is enough for one family. Four members are allowed on one ticket. This pooja is done in Sarpa Samskara building which is in the park near Adi Subrahmanya temple. You have to sit according to your ticket numbers. Un married people who wanted to perform this pooja can sit beside their parents and they will do on behalf of him. There will be a preist for every one. He will perform the whole ritual.

Aslesha Bali pooja if performed on Aslesha Nakshatra, will give good results. It is believed that when performed on other days it won,t have power. In Kukke this pooja is performed in two shifts. Ticket for this pooja is 400Rs. You can get them in the counter. GOTO  SANKALPA MANDIR  IN THE MAIN TEMPLE AND GET SANKALPAM DONE BY ANY OF THE PREISTS AVAIALABLE THERE. After Sankalpa go to the Aslesha Bali pooja. Rangoli of a snake is drawn and Pindas made of rice are offered. We couldn’t see anything as so many people gathered there. Here also you are given cover of full coconut as prasadam. Prepare sweet using this coconut and don’t eat food or curry made using onion until you eat that coconut.

Ticket for NagaPrathista is 400Rs. Ticket should be obtained before 10 A.M. It is done near NagaPrathista Mandapam after MahaaPooja in the main temple. Ticket is given at the counter. Preist will come and do Abishekam with water to the idol of the snake. Small Square shaped stones on which snake are carved are kept in pooja and after pooja you are given Prasadam.

Sri Subrahmanya Swamy Temple:-

The main entrance to the temple lies to the east. The devotees will have to enter courtyard from behind and go before the idol. The sanctuary of Sri Subrahmanya Swamy lies opposite to the main entrance. A Garuda pillar with silver covering towers high between the sanctuary and the newly contructed portico. It is said that the pillar was charmed and errected in order to shield the people from the flames of poisson emanating from the breath of Vasuki residing inside. Devotees have to encircle round including this pillar too. Beyond this pillar the outer Mantapa and then the inner Mantapa and later the sanctuary of Sri Subrahmanya meet our eyes. There is a pedesal in the center of sanctuary. On the upper dais stands the idol of !Sri Shanmukha and then the idol of Vasuki and little lower the idol of Maha Shesha. Panchamrith Mahapooja and ‘Utsava’ of these deities take place daily. More details have already been given in the preceding chapters.


Places around Kuke Subramanya:-

Kukkelinga:-

 To the north of the sanctuary there is a cluster of lingas known as ‘Kukkelingas’. Some believe that the lingas got that name simply because people uset to worship them together kept in a basket. Now of course they have been installed in the back portion of the sanctuary and are being worshipped there. Some argue that the place owes it’s name "Kukke Pattana" to the Kukke linga and they proceed a step further and say that the epithet "Kukke" in ‘Kukke Subrahmanya Devaru’ owes its origin to the curious custom of worshipping images kept in the basket. Also there is a fanciful contention that Kukke must be the Halegannada form of the Sanskrit word "Kukshi" meaning "cave". As the image was installed by Vasukin in the cave it came to be called as Kukkelinga. Moreover as already been referred we come across the phrase ‘Subramanya Ahipeshwara’ in the Lalithagama. The car festival of Kukkelinga takes place every uear on Makara Sankramana. At present many families, worship Kukkelinga as thte titular deity of their families. According to the legendary history, Sri Shanmugaswamy installed Shiva Lingas in three places in order to get rid of the sin resulting from killing Tharakasura. Afterwards many Gods and sages installed many more Lingas and images. In course of time when the place was subjected to the vicissitudes of the ebb and flow of its forutne, people collected these images and Lingas and placed them in the temple. Further particulars of this can be seen in Subrahmanya Mahathmya, the book published by the temple management.

Bhairava Devaru:-

 Now on the south of this sanctuary is the shrine of Lord Bhairava. According to the legend of the place this is Kapaleshwara installed by no less a God than Sri Shanmugha Swamy. This must have been installed in the present place later on, and the origin of the place seems to be uncertain.

Vedavyasa Samputa Narasimha Devaru:-

 We find this deity in the south-eastern sactuary. It is said that the Vedavyasa Samputa and the image of Lakshmi Narasimha handed over to Sri Madhvacharya by Sri Vedavyasa are of paramount importance. (It is said that Ganapathy had been installed and worshipped in this shrine in olden days. But now the idol of Ganapathy is in the inner Mantapam of the shrine of Sri Subrahmanya. Moreover to the south and the north are situated the temples of Bhairava and Umamaheshwara). Festivals are celebrated here on three days on the occasion of Narasimha Jayanthi in ‘Vaishaka Masa’. The deity belongs to the Swamiars of local Mutt and is worshipped by them.

Ballalaraya Vigraha (The statue of Ballala King):-

History tells us that the rule of the Hoysala Ballala King began in our district in the eleventh century. But after a period therir rule in the District came to an end and was replaced by the rule of the Ikkeri dynasty. But in some places the kings of Ballala dynasty continued to rule groups of villages. They were called Ballala’s or Ballala Kings. Subrahmanya was once the capital of one such Ballala Chieftain. On the basis of the study of the ramnants it has been gathered that the place of the king was situated to the south-west of Kulkunda near the place where the cattle fair is conducted now. The statue of the king must have been installed at the entrance in front of the temple during the regime of the Ballala Chieftains. A story has been woven round this installation. It is believed that the Vedavyasa Samputa in possession of the Subrahmanya Mutt is unbreakable. Driven to curiosity a Ballala Chieftain tried to break the Vedavyasa Samputa which was supposed to be unbreakable by making the elephant trample upon it. As a result a burning sensation spread throughout his body and the horrified king prayed to Sri Subrahmanya. Sri Subrahmanya ordered that the statue of the king should be installed at the entracnce and that cotton, butter, mustard and pumpkin should be offered to it. The incident is described in the short history of Subrahmanya Samsthana published by Sri Subrahmaya Mutt in 1927. But no other sources can be tapped to substantiate this legend. One can find the statues of the Maharaja of Mysore installed in the temples of Nanjanagudu and Chamundibetta. So it can also be inferred that the Ballala Chieftain must have followed this custom and have installed the statuein order toenlist the loyalty of his subjects. Custom requires now that every day when the Mangalarathi is over, it should be placed hre. On the Champashasti when the idol of Sri Subrahmanya is takend out for the festival the god proceeds only after acception the offerings of this Ballala King.

Subrahmanya Mutt:-

 A Subrahmanya Mutt belonging to Dwaitha tradition of Madhwa religion is situated to the south-east of the outer quadrangle of the temple. It is said Sri Madhwacharya made his brother Vishnu Thirthacharya his disciple and gave this Mutt to him. This is therefore, sometimes called as Vishnuthirthacharya’s Samshtana.

Sringeri Mutt:-

 This is situated to the north-east of the temple compund. The deity there is Chandramauleshwara. He is regularly worshipped with Panchaparva Nandadeepa. This Mutt is under the management of the temple and the rituals are conducted on its behalf.

Hosaligamma:-

 The mother Goddess Hosaligamma’s temple lies to the south of the Subrahmanya temple. Hosaligamma and Purusharaya are the two most important deities here. Different forms of worship are daily conducted. On two occasions during the festival the deity possess the man appointed for the purpose (on Karhika 30 and Margasira 6). This possession takes place on other auspicious days also. (Margashira 15 and on Jyeshta Shasti). Bhoga (Nadavali) is offered to the deity twice a year. It is supposed that this deity is the bodyguard of Sri Subrahmanya. Devotees make various kinds of offerings here (Kunkumarchana, Mangalarathi, Hannukai). Hosaligamma and Purusharaya are very ancient deities and their names appear in the Kaumarika Khada of the ‘Skandapurana’. It is said that Hosaligamma and Purusharaya are none other that Vatayakshini and Chandila respectively referred to in that book. More details have been given in the book ‘Stala Mhathmya’ published by the temple management.

Darpana Thirtha:-

 A streamlet called Darpana Thirtha flows from north to south in front. 

 Adi subramanya Temple:-



A road on the northern side of the main Gopuram leads to Adi Subrahmanya. 0.25 KM of walk will take you to Adi Subrahmanya temple. One can see a great Valmmika (anthill) in the sanctum. Here daily poojas are conducted and devotees can offer sevas to Shree Subrahmanya.

 Kashikatte Ganapathi:-


This is situated beside the main road towards Kumaradhara about 0.25 KM from the main temple. Here temples of Ganapathi and Anjaneya are seen. It is believed that the idol of Ganapathi found here is very ancient and installed by sage Narada.

Biladwara:-


On the way from main temple of Kumaradhara you come across a very sacred place called Biladwara which is 0.30 KM from the main temple. It is said that Vasuki (Serpentking) lay hiding in this cave in order to escape from Garude. It is a cave surrounded by beautiful garden.

Kumaradhara river (Bathing Ghat):-



A holy river sanctifies this pilgrim center. It originates from Kumaraparvatha. As a natural charmer, the river cascades down great height and muters lush vegetation of the region. Its journey links with Nethravathi, a holy river of Dakshina Kannada district and joins Arabian Sea. As the river flows over the rocks and thick forest areas it is sure that all the skin diseases will be cured if pilgrims take bath in this river.
Note : As the river is very deep and flows very fast one has to take care while taking bath.

 Darpana Theerth:-


A tributary of Kumaradhara flows in front of the outer quadrangle of the main temple. It is believed that a mirror (Darpana) and an Akshaya patra (Kopparige with full of gold jewels) happened to come floating down from mountain and the same was collected by temple authority.

 Samputa Narasimha:-

This Temple is situated in the south eastern side of the main sanctum. It is believed that the image of this God is handed over to Madvacharya by Shree Veda Vyasa.This temple belongs to Shree Subrahmanya Mutt.

Vanadurga Devi Temple:-

This temple lies about 0.50KM away from the main temple, Recently this was renovated by using specially designed red stones on traditional style. Daily poojas are conducted here and devoteed offer sevas to Goddess.

 Kukke Shree Abhaya Mahaganapathi:-


It is situates on the left side of the main road to Kumaradhara, about 0.45 KM from the main temple. It is one of the biggest monolithic statues of Ganapa. It is 21 feet tall. The architecture of the shrine is in Nepali style.

Temple Festivals:-

The Annual festival is held here from ‘Karthika Bahula Dwadashi’ to Margashira Shudha Poornima'. On the day of Karthika Bahula Amavasya, the Lakshadeepotsava is celebrated. On the next four days, the Chandramandalotsava, Ashwavahanotsava, Mayura Vahanotsava and Flower Chariot Utsava are conducted respectively. ‘Panchami Rathotsava’ is celebrated at night on Panchami (the fifth day). On the Shashti day (sixth day), Lord Subrahmanya and Lord Umamaheshwara are taken out in procession. The appearance of the Garuda Pakshi (kite) at the time of Ratharohana and also at the time of Avabrath Mahotsava, the next day, is a remarkable feature as this bird can never be found here on the rest of the days. The annual festival comes to an end with a ritual called Maha Samprokshana.




 Temple Timings:-

Morning: 7A.M TO 1P.M
Evening: 3P.M TO 8P.M
Poojas Offered     Timings
Opening the main doors     5.00 AM
Usha Kala Pooja     05.30 AM - 7:00 AM
Sevas by the devotees     07.00 AM - 10 AM
Madhyahna Pooja     10.00 AM - 12.15 PM
Mahamangalarathi     12.00 PM
Distribution of Theertha Prasada     12.30 PM - 01:00 PM
Anna Santharpane     1.30 PM - 2:00 PM
Hannukai Seva, Mangalarathi by the devotee     3.30 PM - 6:00 PM
Nisha Pooja     6:00 PM - 7:40 PM
Mahamangalarathi     7.30 PM
Closing the main doors     8.00 PM

How to Reach:-

    By Air:-

    The nearest airport is the Mangalore International Airport at a distance of 115 km.

    By Train:-

    The nearest railway station is the Subramanya Road railway station on the route of Mangalore railways station about 7 Kms from the Kukke Subramanyar Temple.

    By Road:-

    Kukke Subrahmanya can be reached by road from Mangalore and from Bangalore. KSRTC operates buses on a daily basis from these two places.