Guddapur Dhannama Devi Temple

Introduction to Guddapur Dhannama Devi Temple

The Guddapur Dhannama Devi Temple is located in Guddapur, Maharashtra. Devotees visit the temple from all parts of Karnataka and Maharashtra. So, it is always busy with the crowds. The Guddapur Dhannama Devi Temple is surrounded by big hills, pools, and tanks, making the place a feast for the eyes.

Guddapur is close to the Karnataka border. But, it falls in the jurisdiction of Maharashtra. 99% of the devotees of Dhannama Devi are Kannadigas. Over 8 lakh people from various districts of North Karnataka attend the Rathotsava.

There are many Dhannama Devi Temples in Karnataka State. Devotees can find her temple in Rabkavi, Savlangi, Ballekere, Sedam, Haveri, Hubli, Belgaum, and Athani.

The Legend of Guddapur Dhannama Devi Temple

In Hindu mythology, Dhannama Devi is believed to be an incarnation of Durga. Lingamma, known as Dhannama, was born to Anantrai and Shirasamma in Sangli, Maharashtra. She was born with the blessings of their community deity, Veeramallayya, who named her Lingamma. From her childhood, Lingamma was very devoted to Shiva. She grew up without any passion for worldly life. Lingamma went to Srisaila to see Mallikarjuna. She visited the place and performed severe penance without taking even water.

Her penance pleased Mallikarjuna, and he appeared before Lingamma. He advised her to accept Veerashaiva Dharma and preach the principles of Veerashaivism to the common people. The deity also bestowed her with the power to fulfill the desires of ordinary people who came to her. Accordingly, she preached the principles of Veerashaivism. When she reached Basavakalyana, she performed many miracles, and people started to worship her. Lingamma wanted to meet Basavanna there. After hearing of her miracles, Basavanna came along with his wives, Neelambika and Gangamatha. He took her with them to their place and renamed her Dhannama Devi. Thus, Lingamma became Dhannama.

Dhannama married Somanath of Kudalasangama in Sangatheerth near Guddapur. Finally, she attained Maha Nirvana. Guddapur Dhannama Devi Temple was constructed at the spot where she left her physical body.

The Architecture of Guddapur Dhannama Devi Temple

Shri Guddapur Dhannama Devi Temple is an old temple that may have been built in the 12th century. Along with the Dhannama Devi temple, Someshwar temple is also on the temple premises. Mallikarjuna temple is on the left of the Someshwar temple. Veerabhadra temples are on the right side. Between Guddapur Dhannama Devi Temple and Someshwar Temple, a big Mandap is there for devotees to rest and perform rituals.

The temple is under the management of Shri Dhannama Devasthan Trust. There are two entrances for the temple in the North and South directions. The temple attracts huge crowds every No Moon day, Sunday, Monday, and Thursday.

The temple trust performs Annadasoha, or food donation, to all devotees at the Guddapur Dhannama Devi Temple. The dining hall has stainless steel tables, plates, and roof sheets. A mineral water plant is available in the temple for drinking purposes. Over 225 rooms are available for the stay.

Festivals in Guddapur Dhannama Devi Temple

All major festivals are celebrated in the Guddapur Dhannama Devi Temple. One of the significant festivals is the annual Rathotsava or chariot festival. It takes place in February or March every year. During this festival, the presiding deity Dhannama Devi comes out for a procession in a decorated chariot. Kartik Yatra festival and Shravan Maas function are other important festivals.

Navaratri is another grand festival celebrated for nine days. On these days, devotees offer prayers and perform rituals to honor the deity and seek her blessings.

Diwali, Ugadi, and Maha Shivratri are the other festivals celebrated at the Guddapur Dhannama Devi Temple.

Benefits of Worshipping at Guddapur Dhannama Devi Temple

Dhannama Devi is a fierce deity who protects her devotees from evil forces and grants them strength and courage. She is also believed to bless them with good health, life partner, and progeny.