- Ganesh
Sasivekalu Ganesh Temple
- Hampi,Karnataka
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Overview
The Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple, a giant monolithic statue of Lord Ganesha, is one of the popular attractions in Hampi. The statue is 2.4 metres (8 feet) tall. The shrine is located on the southern foothill of the Hemakuta Hill in Hampi, not far from the huge Kadalekalu Ganesha temple.
About the Deity
The stomach or pot belly of the deity resembles the shape of a mustard seed. Mustard seed is known as Sasivekalu in the local language of the land. Thus, the statue has been named as Sasivekalu Ganesha. The statue is in a sitting position (half-lotus posture) and has four arms. The upper right hand of the statue has a goad while the lower right hand holds the broken tusk.
History of the Temple
The history of the statue of Sasivekalu Ganesha dates back to the 16th century. According to an inscription found near the statue, the pavilion that houses the statue was built in 1506 AD. It was constructed by a merchant from Chandragiri (a place in present day Andhra Pradesh) in memory of the then king of Vijayanagara, Narasimha II (1491 – 1505 AD).
Legend and Stories
According to the Hindu mythology, Lord Ganesha is a deity who loves food very much. It is said that once Ganesha had eaten so much food that his tummy was on the verge of bursting out. Finding no other option to save his tummy, Ganesha caught hold of a snake and tied it around his tummy as a belt to prevent it from bursting. The statue of Sasivekalu Ganesha has a snake tied around the tummy in reference to this mythological incident.
Best Time to Visit
October to February.
Accessibility
Sasivekalu Ganesha is one of the most frequented sites in Hampi. The location of the temple can be easily accessed by visitors from all parts of the ruined town. The temple stands at a walkable distance from the Hampi bus-stand. The nearest airport is in Bellary. The nearest railway station is located at the town of Hospet. Hampi is well connected by road.
Temple Address
Sasivekalu Ganesh Temple,
Hampi, Bellary District,
Karnataka, India,
Pincode – 583239.
Significance
Devotees visit this temple to seek fulfillment of the following:-
- Auspicious beginnings of work
- Removal of obstacles
- Renewal of energy
- Success
- Wisdom
- Agricultural productivity
Shlokas
Vakratunda Mahakaaya Suryakoti Samaprabha Nirvighnam Kuru Mey Deva Sarva Kaaryeshu Sarvada
Meaning -I pray to thee O Lord, who has a curved trunk and a strong body, the shine of a million suns, to remove all the hurdles that may block me from all the tasks I intend to perform.
Agajaanana Padmaarkam Gajaananam Aharnisham Anekadantham Bhaktaanaam Ekadantam Upaasmahey
Meaning -The sun to Mother Parvati's lotus face, I worship Lord Ganesh, with the elephant face, the one who grants a lot of wishes, the one with the single tusk, I salute thee to grant my wish.
Gajaananam Bhoota Ganaadhi Sevitam Kapitta Jamboophaala Saara Bhakshitam Umaasutam Shoka Vinaasha Kaaranam Namaami Vighneswara Paada Pankajam
Meaning -Oh elephant-faced Lord, who is served by all the Ganas, who consumes the essence of Kapitta and Jamboophala, His favourite fruits, who is Uma's son, who destroys the gloom of His devotees, who handles hurdles, we worship your lotus feet.
Tatpurushaaya Vidmahe Vakratundaaya Dheemahe Tanno Danthihi Prachodayaat
Meaning -We meditate on the great power, we call upon the single tusked Ganesh, who grants wishes.
Timings
The temple is open from 06:00 am to 06:00 pm.