Situated at the sacred confluence (sangama) of the Tunga and Bhadra rivers, the Chintamani Narasimha Temple in Kudli is a divine retreat nestled in the spiritual heart of Karnataka. The temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, the fourth avatar of Lord Vishnu, revered here as Chintamani Narasimha – the remover of worries and sufferings. The peaceful environment, enriched by flowing rivers and timeless legends, makes Kudli a powerful kshetra for healing, meditation, and spiritual rejuvenation.
Narasimha Jayanti is the most celebrated festival, observed with grand abhishekas, bhajans, and community offerings.
Daily poojas are performed twice a day, accompanied by Vedic chanting and heartfelt devotion.
Devotees often take a holy dip in the sangama before darshan, following Prahlada's tradition.
The name "Chintamani" refers to the one who relieves all anxieties and mental turmoil, and devotees come here seeking relief from illnesses, emotional distress, and life’s burdens. It is believed that Lord Narasimha self-manifested (Swayambhu) from a Saligrama Shila brought by Bhakta Prahlada, making this shrine spiritually charged with divine presence. The imprint of Prahlada’s thumb can still be seen on the deity’s forehead—a divine mark from an age of devotion.
Kudli is not only sacred for its Narasimha temple but is also believed to be the place where Lord Rama performed Shraddha karma for Vali, on the advice of Sage Vasishta, further enhancing its sanctity.
According to ancient lore, Bhakta Prahlada, after the divine episode of Lord Narasimha slaying Hiranyakashipu, undertook a pilgrimage to cleanse his karmic burden. When he reached Kudli, he took a dip in the sangama of Tunga and Bhadra rivers, placing his Saligrama on the banks. Upon returning, he witnessed the Saligrama had transformed into a divine vigraha (idol) of Narasimha, which started growing in size.
To prevent the idol from growing further, Prahlada pressed his thumb on its forehead, the mark of which is still visible today. He later performed prana pratishtha and constructed a shrine at that very spot.
The temple, dating back to the 12th century, is built in the classic South Indian style, featuring a three-tiered Rajagopuram, a sacred garbha-griha, sabha mandapa, and sukanasi. Lord Narasimha sits in virasana posture, his right hand holding a bowl, symbolizing nourishment, while his left rests peacefully on his thigh.
Open daily: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Shivamogga
Koppa
Bhadravathi
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