Guli Guli Shankareshwara Swamy Temple (Shimoga)
Guli Guli Shankareshwara Swamy Temple – A Sacred Abode of Lord Shiva
Introduction
The Guli Guli Shankareshwara Swamy Temple is a revered Shiva temple located in Karnataka, deeply rooted in ancient mythology and spiritual traditions. Devotees visit this sacred site to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings and experience the divine energy that permeates the temple surroundings. The temple is especially known for its miraculous Jata Tirtha, a pond that mysteriously flows throughout the year without any apparent source of water.
Historical and Mythological Significance
The origins of the Guli Guli Shankareshwara Swamy Temple date back to a time before the Treta Yuga. According to legend, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati once visited this place for a retreat. During their stay, Goddess Parvati felt thirsty and asked Lord Shiva for water. In response, Shiva invoked the holy Ganga, who emerged as a spring from his matted locks to quench Parvati’s thirst.
Pleased with this divine act, Lord Shiva asked Ganga to stay in this place, blessing the water with medicinal properties that would benefit humanity. However, Ganga was reluctant to stay permanently. Angered by her refusal, Lord Shiva bound Ganga in his plaited hair, preventing her from leaving. Ganga then requested that she would only remain if Shiva also stayed with her. Shiva agreed, and it is believed that he eternally resides here along with the sacred Ganga, making this temple an exceptionally powerful and spiritually significant pilgrimage site.
Unique Features of the Temple
Jata Tirtha – The Eternal Sacred Pond
One of the most fascinating aspects of the temple is the Jata Tirtha, a pond located in the middle of the temple premises. Despite having no visible water source, the pond miraculously gushes with fresh water throughout the year, maintaining a consistent water level even in extreme climatic conditions. The water here is believed to carry healing properties, as it was blessed by Lord Shiva himself.
Bilva Patra Ritual – A Divine Sign
Devotees perform a unique ritual involving Bilva Patra (Bael leaves) at Jata Tirtha. The process includes:
- Purchasing Bilva Patra from the temple office.
- Drawing water from the sacred pond and anointing the nearby Shiva Linga.
- Dipping the Bilva Patra three times in the Jata Tirtha pond before letting it float.
A popular belief associated with this ritual is that if the Bilva Patra floats upright and reaches the bottom of the pond, the devotee’s wishes will be fulfilled. However, if the Bilva Patra resurfaces, it indicates that the prayer may not be granted at this time. Many devotees wait with devotion and anticipation, observing whether their offering will sink or rise. This practice has created a deep emotional and spiritual connection for visitors, often bringing tears of joy and gratitude when their prayers are answered.
Temple Architecture and Spiritual Ambiance
The Guli Guli Shankareshwara Swamy Temple is built in a traditional style, featuring:
- A sacred Shiva Linga enshrined in the sanctum.
- Nandi idol, facing Lord Shiva, symbolizing devotion and strength.
- Intricate carvings and sculptures that depict ancient Shaivite legends.
- A peaceful and divine environment, ideal for meditation and spiritual awakening.
Religious Practices and Festivals
- Rudrabhishekam – A sacred ritual where water, milk, honey, and holy substances are poured over the Shiva Linga to invoke divine blessings.
- Maha Shivaratri – The most significant festival celebrated with night-long prayers, devotional bhajans, and abhisheka.
- Shravan Maas Special Pujas – The month of Shravan is considered auspicious for Shiva worship, attracting devotees in large numbers.
- Karthika Deepotsava – The temple is beautifully illuminated with lamps, creating a mesmerizing divine ambiance.
How to Reach the Temple
- By Air – The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, from where taxis and buses are available.
- By Train – The closest railway station is Udupi or Mangalore, well-connected to major cities.
- By Road – The temple can be accessed via private vehicles or public transport, with roads leading through scenic landscapes.
Best Time to Visit
- During Maha Shivaratri – For an immersive spiritual experience.
- Early morning and Mondays – For a peaceful darshan of Lord Shiva.
- Shravan and Karthika months – When special pujas and deepa rituals take place.
The Guli Guli Shankareshwara Swamy Temple stands as a symbol of divine power, faith, and miracles. With its rich history, sacred Jata Tirtha, and the mystical Bilva Patra ritual, the temple continues to attract devotees seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings. A visit to this temple is not just a religious journey but also a deeply spiritual and transformative experience.