- Shiva
Kalakeshwara temple
- Gajendragarh,Karnataka
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Overview
The Kalakeshwara temple is a renowned Hindu shrine situated at Gajendragarh iandn the syate of Karnataka. The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Shiva. The Kalakeshwara temple is popularly referred to as the ‘Kashi of the South’ or ‘Dakshina Kashi’. Lord Shiva is considered as the embodiment of all universal forces and is worshipped here as Kalakeshwara.
About The Temple
Gajendragad is a town which lies amidst several mountains. One has to climb a fleet of steps to reach the Kalakeshwara temple. This temple is known for its unique Udbhava linga, which is worshipped by a large number of pilgrims. The ‘Athare Gange’ is a small tank which is situated at the exit of the temple. This reservoir is considered sacred and is of religious importance. It is a general practice of the Pilgrims, especially during the utsav season, to bathe in the holy waters of this well first, before proceeding to get the darshan of Lord Kalakeshwarar.
Legend and stories
There is an interesting fact pertaining to Kalakeshwara temple. A miracle is said to happen every year during Ugadi (Hindu New Year). According to Myths, a day before the New Year, the pujari of the Kalakeshwara temple makes a limestone mixture. A brush is kept aside this mixture within the temple. It is believed that when the pujari opens the temple the next morning, he finds the mixture being painted newly. This occurrence is said to repeat every year.
During the year 1970, the bells of the temple is suddenly said to have disappeared. The village elders are of thee opinion that the bells vanished into the blue skies. It was during this period that the village was struck by plague. Locals believe the disappearance of the bells as a bad omen and consider it as one of the reasons for the spread of the dreadful epidemic.
Festival
The annual temple festival is celebrated during the month of February and March every year. Mahashivratri is celebrated with much fervour and pomp.
How to Reach Kalakeshwara temple
Airport
The nearest airport is Bangalore Airport.
Railways
The closest railway station to the Kalakaleshwara temple is Koppal railway station located 39 km away from the temple.
Road
The Kalakaleshwara temple is situated 4.5 km from the State Highway 30 in Gajendragad, in the state of Kaenataka, past Shree Guru Sevalal temple.
Temple Address
Kalakeshwara temple,
Gajendragad,
Karnataka 582114
Significance
Devotees visit this temple to seek fulfillment of the following:-
- For cure from illnesses
Shlokas
Kailaasarana Shiva Chandramouli Phaneendra Maathaa Mukutee Zalaalee Kaarunya Sindhu Bhava Dukha Haaree Thujaveena Shambho Maja Kona Taaree
Meaning -Oh Lord Shiva who is seated on Mount Kailash, where the moon decorates his forehead and the king of serpents crown his head, who is merciful and removes delusion, You alone can protect me. I surrender to thee.
Aum Trayambakam Yajaamahey Sugandhim Pusti Vardhanam Urvaarukamiva Bandhanaath Mrutyor Muksheeya Maamritaat
Meaning -We worship the fragrant Lord Shiva, who has 3 eyes and who cultivates all beings. May He free me from death, for immortality, as even a cucumber is separated from its bond with the vine.