Shettemma Devi Temple: Divine Guardian of Children and Traditions Torgal
🖼️ Photo Gallery
🛕 Temple Info
Nestled on the serene banks of the sacred Malaprabha River, the Shettemma Devi Temple in Toragal, Ramdurg Taluk, Belagavi district, Karnataka, is a place where faith, culture, and tradition blend seamlessly. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Shettemma, believed to be a swayambhu (self-manifested) form as per the deep-rooted devotion of the local community.
The temple stands as a spiritual anchor for countless families, especially those who visit to perform the Jawala ritual—a sacred ceremony marking the first-time hair removal of children. This ritual, carried out with reverence, is considered an offering to the goddess, seeking her blessings for the child’s health, protection, and bright future. Every Tuesday and Friday, the temple resonates with divine chants and joyous rituals as families gather to perform this ceremony.
In recent years, the temple has undergone renovations, adding simple yet essential facilities for devotees. Newly built rooms, shaded spaces, and seating arrangements now make it more welcoming. Despite these modern touches, the temple retains its rustic charm, drawing people into an atmosphere of divine simplicity and natural beauty. The flow of the Malaprabha River beside the shrine magnifies its sanctity, and during heavy rains, the temple itself sometimes immerses partially in the river’s embrace, adding to its mystical aura.
For devotees traveling along the State Highway 134 from Belagavi to Ramdurg, the temple offers a divine pause. Even a momentary glance at the temple while passing by is believed to invoke the blessings of Devi Shettemma.
💫 Importance
The Shettemma Devi Temple holds immense importance not only for the surrounding villages but also for the entire Belagavi district and neighboring regions. Families travel long distances, including from parts of Maharashtra, to conduct the Jawala ritual here. This tradition reflects the deep faith that the goddess showers her blessings upon children who undergo this sacred act in her presence.
The temple is also a place where devotees turn with their heartfelt prayers and desires. It is believed that once their wishes are fulfilled through the grace (krupa) of the goddess, devotees return to perform special sevas and poojas in gratitude. The simple yet profound bond between the deity and her devotees has been nurtured through generations, making Shettemma Devi not just a divine presence but a family guardian for many.
What stands out about this temple is the personal connection devotees feel—whether through the rituals, the blessings of children, or the fulfillment of desires, Shettemma Devi is seen as a goddess who listens closely and responds generously.
📜 History
While detailed historical records of the Shettemma Devi Temple are not formally documented, the temple’s legacy lives through oral traditions and centuries of devotion. Locals firmly believe the idol to be swayambhu—self-manifested—making the temple sacred beyond human creation. For generations, families from Toragal and nearby villages have preserved and nurtured this temple through their faith.
The temple has faced natural challenges over the years, especially being located by the Malaprabha River. During monsoons, the temple is sometimes engulfed by the river’s rising waters. Yet, each time, the temple has withstood these trials, symbolizing resilience and divine protection. The recent renovations have not only strengthened the structure but also made it more accessible for the increasing number of devotees who flock here.
🪔 Pooja Timings
- Daily Opening: 8:00 AM
- Daily Closing: 6:00 PM
- Special Days: On Tuesdays and Fridays, the temple opens earlier and remains open longer into the evening. This is to facilitate the large number of families performing Jawala and other rituals.
On these days, the temple atmosphere is vibrant, filled with sacred chants, the sound of scissors during the Jawala, and the heartfelt prayers of parents offering their children to the goddess’s care.
🚌 Transport Options
By Road
The Shettemma Devi Temple is easily accessible via State Highway 134 (SH-134), which connects Belagavi to Ramdurg. The temple lies conveniently along this route, making it accessible for both local commuters and pilgrims. Regular buses and private vehicles from Belagavi, Ramdurg, and nearby towns provide good connectivity.
By Rail
The nearest railway station is at Belagavi, which connects to major cities in Karnataka and Maharashtra. From Belagavi railway station, devotees can travel by road to reach the temple.
By Air
The closest airport is Belagavi Airport (Sambra Airport), located about 90 km away. From there buses are available to reach Ramdurg and onwards to Toragal.
🏙️ Nearby Cities
- Belagavi – Approximately 70 km away
- Ramdurga – Around 12 km away
- Hubballi – About 95 km away.
MytempleMypride Reflection
Visiting the Shettemma Devi Temple is more than just a ritual—it is an experience of surrender and blessings. The river, the simple shrine, and the age-old Jawala traditions together create a sacred atmosphere that touches every devotee’s heart. For families, especially those bringing their children for the first offering, the temple becomes a memory etched for a lifetime.