Kundeshwara Temple

Introduction to the Kundeshwara Temple

The Kundeshwara Temple is located in Kundapur, Udupi, Karnataka. The presiding deity of the temple is Shiva, worshipped as Kundeshwara. It lies nearby the Panchagangavalli River. The Kundeshwara Temple is the main attraction of the city of Kundapur. The city was named after the temple.

Legend of the Kundeshwara Temple

No clear history is available for Kundeshwara Temple. But, the inscriptions on the sanctum's walls point out that King Kundavarma built the temple. He was an ardent follower of Shiva. The actual construction period is unknown. But, the temple underwent a recent renovation in 2006 by the Government of Karnataka.

The Architecture of the Kundeshwara Temple

Kundeshwara Temple features the Dravidian style of architecture. The temple's architecture suggests that it was likely built during the 9th or 10th century.

The temple's design includes intricate carvings and sculptures. They depict various mythological stories and deities. The temple also has a distinctive stepped pyramidal structure, with a square base and multiple tiers that narrow as they rise toward the top. The temple's outer walls are adorned with ornate carvings of deities and animals. The temple has a large central hall with multiple pillars, each intricately carved with various designs. The temple's design is a testament to the skill and creativity of the ancient Indian architects.

The temple's sanctum contains a 4-ft-high Shivalinga made of a black stone. The uniqueness of the black stone is that it can withstand any weather. But, only one-third of the linga is visible to the visitors, and the remaining part is buried under the earth. Ganesha and Parvati have separate shrines in the temple's complex.

Festivals in the Kundeshwara Temple

Kundeshwara Deepotsava is the main festival of the Kundeshwara Temple. It attracts a huge number of devotees from various parts of the country.

The morning of the day begins with special rituals and Poojas. The temple organizes events, such as song, dance, and drama competitions in the evening. The artists present different stories of Shiva in a creative way.

Maha Shivratri, Ekadashi, Ugadi, and Karthika Poornima festivals have grand celebrations here. Some devotees conduct marriage ceremonies at the temple.

Benefits of Worshipping at Kundeshwara Temple

People seeking life partners visit the Kundeshwara Temple and pray to the deity. They fast and offer milk to the Lingams on Mondays to get good life partners. Unmarried girls also observe fast on sixteen Mondays during the Shravan month (July-August) to get good life partners. Kundeshwara bestows his devotees with salvation, health, wealth, knowledge, and happiness.