Kadu Malleshwara Temple (Bengaluru)

By: Chaitra

Created: 05/08/2025 08:29

Last modified: 05/08/2025 08:29

Kadu Malleshwara Temple, Bengaluru – A Legacy of Faith Amidst the Forests

Nestled in the heart of Malleshwaram, one of Bengaluru’s oldest and most culturally rich localities, the Kadu Malleshwara Temple stands as a timeless symbol of devotion, architectural beauty, and historical relevance. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Malleshwara (an epithet of Shiva), this sacred temple not only lends its name to the locality but also holds immense significance for devotees and historians alike.

Historical Background

The word "Kadu" means forest in Kannada, pointing to the fact that this temple was once surrounded by dense vegetation and wild groves. According to historical accounts, the temple was constructed in the 17th century by Venkoji, the brother of the Maratha king Shivaji Maharaj, during the time he was the ruler of Thanjavur.

It is believed that Venkoji built this temple to express gratitude after a divine vision of Lord Shiva, instructing him to construct a temple in the forested land that would eventually become the Malleshwaram area. Over the centuries, the surrounding forest made way for urban development, but the temple has retained its spiritual aura and importance.

Architectural Significance

Kadu Malleshwara Temple is an elegant representation of Dravidian style architecture, known for its intricate carvings, towering vimanas (temple towers), and symmetrical layouts.

Gopuram (Temple Tower): The temple's entrance is adorned with a modest but traditional gopuram, featuring stone sculptures of various deities and mythical figures.
Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum): At the heart of the temple is the sanctum that houses the Shivalinga, believed to be Swayambhu (self-manifested). Devotees offer abhishekam (ritual bathing) and flowers to the deity, especially on Mondays and during Shivaratri.
Mandapas (Halls): The temple has multiple pillared halls used for congregational worship and rituals. The intricately carved pillars feature floral patterns, divine motifs, and mythological symbols, reflecting the craftsmanship of the artisans of that era.
Dwajasthambha (Flag Post): A beautifully crafted metallic flag post stands near the entrance, typically used during temple processions and festivals.

Despite its age, the temple has been maintained with sensitivity to its original design, with renovations respecting its heritage aesthetics. Kadu Malleshwara Temple gave rise to the very name Malleshwaram, now a prominent and historical locality of Bengaluru. The neighborhood around the temple is characterized by age-old trees, heritage homes, traditional eateries, and a strong sense of community. The temple has also inspired generations of writers, poets, and artists who grew up in the area. Its presence remains central to the cultural and religious identity of North Bengaluru.

Religious and Cultural Importance

Kadu Malleshwara Temple is not only a sacred Shiva temple but also part of a larger religious cluster in Malleshwaram. Nearby temples like Dakshinamukha Nandi Teertha Kalyani, located just opposite the temple, and Gangamma Temple enhance the spiritual environment of the area.

Shivaratri: One of the most important festivals celebrated at the temple, Shivaratri draws thousands of devotees who participate in night-long bhajans, prayers, and rituals.
Karthika Deepotsava: Celebrated during the month of Karthika, the temple premises are lit with oil lamps, creating a mesmerizing and divine atmosphere.
Pradosha Pooja: Special rituals held twice a month during the evening twilight period dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Rathotsava (Chariot Festival): Though on a smaller scale compared to grand temple festivals in Tamil Nadu or Karnataka’s coastal regions, the annual chariot procession around the temple is an event of local cultural importance.

The Sacred Teertha (Holy Pond)

One of the most fascinating aspects of this temple is the Dakshinamukha Nandi Teertha Kalyani, located just across the road. This stepped pond, discovered in the 1990s during construction activities, is a rare water shrine where water constantly flows from a Nandi’s mouth directly onto a Shiva Linga. This sacred spring is aligned with the temple and considered an extension of its spiritual axis. The origin of the water source remains a mystery, further enhancing the belief in its divinity. Devotees often combine visits to both shrines, reinforcing their spiritual connection.

Visiting Information

Location: Sampige Road, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru – easily accessible by Metro (Malleshwaram Station) and BMTC buses.
Timings: Typically open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM (may vary on festival days).
Entry: Free.
Dress Code: Devotees are expected to wear modest attire, especially during pujas and festivals.
Photography: Usually restricted inside the sanctum for spiritual decorum.

The Kadu Malleshwara Temple is more than a place of worship—it is a sanctuary of history, spirituality, and community life in Bengaluru. Its roots in ancient forest land, coupled with enduring Maratha legacy and unique rituals, make it a must-visit destination for seekers of divine blessings, heritage enthusiasts, and lovers of traditional temple architecture. In a city that thrives on technology and speed, Kadu Malleshwara offers a peaceful retreat into timeless devotion and cultural richness.