Shri Sharavu Mahaganapathi Temple - Mangaluru
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🛕 Temple Info
The Shri Sharavu Mahaganapathi Temple is a revered shrine nestled in the heart of Mangaluru, Karnataka. It is a unique temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva (Sharabeshwara) and Lord Ganapathi (Mahaganapathi), both worshipped with equal devotion. The temple is renowned for its self-manifested (Svayambhu) idol of Lord Ganapathi, adorned with Siddhilakshmi on His left, symbolizing prosperity and fulfillment of devotees' wishes.
The temple’s serene ambiance, intricate architecture, and spiritual aura attract thousands of devotees daily. It is also a center for cultural activities like Yakshagana (dance-drama) and social service initiatives.
Major Festivals
- Ganesh Chaturthi (grand celebrations)
- Deepotsavam (Festival of Lights)
- Rathotsava (Annual Car Festival)
- Sankashti Chaturthi (monthly fasting day)
💫 Importance
- Sacred Legend: The temple’s origin is tied to King Veerabahu’s penance for accidentally killing a cow, leading to the installation of Sharabeshwara Linga and later the manifestation of Mahaganapathi.
- Divine Presence: The self-manifested Ganapathi idol is believed to grant wishes, remove obstacles, and bestow prosperity.
- Spiritual Significance: The temple is regarded as a Kshetra (holy place), equivalent to Kashi Vishwanath, with its temple tank (Sharatheertha) considered as sacred as the Ganga.
- Historical Devotees: Even Tipu Sultan, upon seeing a divine warning in a dream, spared the temple from destruction.
📜History
Origins (12th Century)
- King Veerabahu, a Tuluva ruler, accidentally killed a cow while hunting. Sage Bharadwaja advised him to build a Shiva temple to atone for the sin.
- The spot where the cow died became Sharavu, and the Shiva Linga was installed as Sharabeshwara.
Manifestation of Mahaganapathi
- As prophesied by Sage Bharadwaja, Lord Ganapathi later manifested on the southern wall of the Sharabeshwara temple with Siddhilakshmi.
- A Brahmin priest, Keshava, was appointed as the first worshipper, followed by the Kekunnaya family, who continue the rituals today.
Mangaladevi Connection
- Goddess Mangaladevi (a form of Parvati) instructed King Veerabahu’s successor to build her temple nearby, leading to the naming of Mangaluru (Mangalapur).
Royal & Historical Legacy
- The temple was patronized by Tuluva kings, Hoysala rulers, and even respected by Tipu Sultan.
- A scholar-priest, Ganapathy Shastry, famously resolved theological debates in the Mysore court, earning royal honors.
🪔 Pooja Timings
- Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:45 PM
- Evening: 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM
- (Open every day)
🚌 Transfort Options
By Road:
- Udupi: 58 km
- Dharmasthala: 77 km
- Bengaluru: 347 km
By Rail
- Mangaluru Railway Station (Well-connected to major cities)
By Air
- Mangaluru International Airport (Domestic & international flights)
🏙️Near By Cities
Udupi
Dharmastal
Kukke
Suratkal
Kumata
Written by MyTempleMyPride, incorporating insights from local devotees, the official temple website, and the book Temples of India by Dr. K. Raghuram. ...✍️
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