Chamundeshwari Temple

Introduction to Mysore Chamundi Temple

Mysore Chamundi Temple is one of the Shakthi Peetams, situated in Karnataka, where the hair of Goddess Sati fell on earth. She is revered as the “Naada Devathe”, which means the Goddess of the State. The temple is named after the deity, Chamundeshwari, who is believed to be the incarnation of Goddess Parvati, in her fierce form. This temple is almost 13 kms away from the city of Mysore on top of the hill. Many devotees from all parts of the world come here, as this hillock is considered to be highly mystical and powerful.

History and Legend of Mysore Chamundi Temple

Goddess Chamundi is an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. Once there were two demon brothers called Sumba and Nimba. They earned a boon through severe austerities and began disturbing the lives of the people. They did not stop with that, their atrocity even extended to the sages, demi-gods, and even to Lord Indra. In order to put an end to the atrocities, Sage Narada approached Lord Shiva. It is believed that many Sages and Rishis are still ambulating this mountain in their amorphous form and worshipping the Goddess along with the deities.

The architecture of Mysore Chamundi Temple

Mysore Chamundi was built during the 12th Century by Hoysala rulers and renovated by Vijayanagar Kings around the 17th century. It has around 3000 steps that lead to the temple. There is a huge statue of Nandi, the divine bull, on the 700th step. The temple is a quadrangular construction which is built in the Dravidian style. It has a seven tier Gopuram or tower. The tower is decorated with various images and the wall has stucco paintings. There are many shrines for Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha and Lord Bhairava. The sanctum has the idol of Goddess Chamundi with eight hands in a sitting posture.

Festivals Related to Mysore Chamundi Temple

The famous festivals of this temple are Aashada Shukravara and Navratri. The latter is highly celebrated for all ten days, with the royal family of Mysore partaking in the festivals. Ammanavara Vardhanthi is celebrated with pomp and glory, where Goddess is venerated highly. The special festival of this temple is Chamundi Jayanthi, where millions of devotees gather in this temple. The idol of the goddess is ambulated in the city of Mysore. Apart from that, Fridays are very auspicious.

Benefits of Worshipping at Mysore Chamundi Temple

Goddess Chamundi is believed to be one of the most benevolent Goddesses. She removes obstacles in life and bestows positivity and the strength to overcome any difficulties. She removes the fear of enemies in life. People worship here for good wealth, proper health, childbirth, marriage and getting jobs. Once the wishes are fulfilled, people come and offer their tributes to thank the goddess.