Shri Danamma Devi Temple - Guddapura Sangli
🖼️ Photo Gallery
🛕 Temple Info
Nestled along the Maharashtra–Karnataka border, in the serene village of Guddapur, stands the sacred Shri Danamma Devi Temple — a spiritual haven steeped in devotion, tradition, and history. This revered shrine is dedicated to Sharane Shri Danamma Devi, worshipped as an incarnation of Goddess Parvati and remembered as a compassionate saint who devoted her life to helping the needy.
The temple is known for its peaceful atmosphere, clean surroundings, and well-maintained facilities. Despite Guddapur being a small village, the temple draws an unceasing stream of devotees throughout the year. Rolling hills, water tanks, and a fresh countryside breeze enhance the beauty of this holy site.
Within the temple complex, devotees will find not only the main sanctum of Danamma Devi but also shrines dedicated to Lord Someshwara, Mallikarjuna, and Veerabhadra. The architecture reflects a timeless charm, with a big Mantapa between the Danamma and Someshwara shrines serving as a gathering space for rituals and community events.
The temple also runs the noble tradition of Dasoha — serving free, freshly prepared meals twice a day to devotees. Accommodation options such as Yatri Nivas and private lodges are available at nominal rates, making it easy for pilgrims to stay overnight. Ample parking, drinking water facilities, and shops selling pooja items further enhance the visitor experience.
💫 Importance
Shri Danamma Devi holds a special place in the hearts of devotees across North Karnataka, South Maharashtra, and beyond. Many regard her as a guardian mother who fulfills the wishes of those who approach her with faith. It is believed that she grants blessings especially to those facing difficulties in marriage, health, or livelihood.
The temple is a center of social harmony, drawing people from various backgrounds and communities. Devotees often undertake paadayatra (pilgrimage on foot) from distant towns and villages to seek her darshan. During Amavasya (new moon days), especially Chatti Amavasya, the temple witnesses lakhs of devotees in a vibrant festival atmosphere that can last for a week.
Every day, the goddess is adorned in three different forms, symbolizing her divine journey through childhood, adulthood, and later life — a sight that fills the heart with devotion. Chanting her 108 Namavali is believed to bring strength, confidence, and relief from troubles.
📜History
The origins of Shri Danamma Devi are deeply tied to the 12th century Sharana movement. Born as Lingamma to Anantaraya and Shirasamma in Umarani village (present-day Maharashtra), she was blessed by Lord Veerabhadra as an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. Inspired by Jagajyothi Basavanna, she dedicated her life to serving humanity and spreading the teachings of devotion to Lord Shiva.
After her marriage to Sangamanatha, a fellow Shiva devotee, the couple settled in Guddapur. They devoted themselves to charitable works — offering food, shelter, and spiritual guidance. Her acts of generosity earned her the name “Daana-Amma” (Mother of Giving).
Legends tell of miracles she performed during her lifetime, and even today devotees believe she continues to protect and bless those who call upon her. After attaining Maha Nirvana in Guddapur, a temple was built in her honor, which has since become a prominent pilgrimage center for Lingayat, Jangam, and Vishwakarma communities, as well as countless others who revere her as a divine mother.
🪔 Pooja Timings
The temple performs three main poojas daily, each depicting a stage in the goddess’s life:
- Morning Pooja (4:30 AM – 6:00 AM): Depicts the childhood form of the goddess.
- Midday Pooja (10:30 AM – 12:00 PM): Depicts her adulthood form.
- Evening Pooja (6:00 PM – 7:00 PM): Depicts her later years.
The temple remains open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM for darshan.
Dasoha (Anna Prasada) is served daily in the noon and at night in the large dining hall opposite the temple entrance.
🚌 Transfort Options
By Air: The nearest airport is Belagavi Airport (about 200 km), with connections to Bengaluru, Mumbai, and other cities. From there, taxis and buses are available to Guddapur.
By Rail: The closest railway stations are Vijayapura (Bijapur) and Miraj, both well connected to major cities. Local buses or taxis can be taken from these stations to the temple.
By Road: Guddapur is accessible via Athani, Vijayapura, and Jath. Roads are good up to Athani, after which the condition may vary, especially in the Maharashtra stretch. KSRTC buses operate from many North Karnataka towns. Private vehicles are preferred by many pilgrims.
🏙️Near By Cities
- Jath (22 km)
- Vijayapura (51 km)
- Athani (around 90 km)
- Miraj (120 km)
- Belagavi (200 km).
🗣️ Devotee Comments