Seebi Narasimha Swamy Temple (Tumkur)
The Seebi Narasimha Swamy Temple, located in the village of Seebi (also spelled Sibi) in Tumakuru district, Karnataka, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Situated approximately 20 kilometers north of Tumakuru city, this temple is renowned for its historical significance, architectural elegance, and exquisite mural paintings.
Historical Significance
The origins of the Seebi Narasimha Swamy Temple are steeped in legend. According to historical accounts, a merchant once stopped at Seebi and cooked grain on a rock, which turned blood red, causing him and his attendants to faint. In a dream, Lord Narasimha appeared to the merchant, revealing that the rock was his abode and instructing him to build a temple there as atonement. A small shrine was initially constructed, which later evolved into the grand temple we see today.
In 1797, three brothers—Lakshminarasappa, Puttanna, and Nallappa, sons of Kacheri Krishnappa, a Dewan in Tipu Sultan's court—undertook the construction of the current temple structure. The temple was built in memory of their parents, with inscriptions related to this dedication found at their residence, Vasant Mahal, in Tumkur. The construction spanned approximately 14 years, culminating in a temple that stands as a testament to their devotion and architectural vision.
Architectural Features
The Seebi Narasimha Swamy Temple is an exemplar of late 18th-century Dravidian architecture. The temple complex features a three-tiered gopuram (entrance tower) leading into a spacious courtyard. Within, an open mantapa (hall) transitions into a closed navaranga (inner hall), housing the main sanctum dedicated to Lord Narasimha. Additional shrines within the complex honor deities such as Lord Rama, Ambegal Krishna, Sriranga (a reclining form of Vishnu), Ganesha, and the Saptamatrikas.
A notable feature of the temple is the Gaja Pushkarini, a sacred water tank located nearby. This tank is associated with the legend of Gajendra Moksha, where Lord Vishnu rescued the elephant Gajendra from a crocodile, symbolizing the Lord's protection of his devotees.
Exquisite Murals
One of the temple's most captivating aspects is its extensive collection of mural paintings adorning the walls and ceilings of the mukhamantapa (entrance hall). These murals vividly depict scenes from Hindu epics and scriptures, including the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Bhagavata Purana, and the Narasimha Purana.
The murals are organized into three distinct rows:
-
Top Row: Illustrates the playful exploits of Lord Krishna, known as Krishna Leela.
-
Middle Row: Depicts a royal court scene featuring Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar III with Nallappa, one of the temple's patrons.
-
Bottom Row: Portrays the court of Haidar Ali and his son Tipu Sultan, with prominent figures such as Kacheri Krishnappa and his relatives in attendance.
These murals are celebrated for their "folkish" character and are considered among the finest examples of Mysore period art. They exhibit influences from Mughal artistic traditions and bear stylistic similarities to the murals found in the Daria Daulat Bagh in Srirangapatna.
Festivals and Rituals
The Seebi Narasimha Swamy Temple is a vibrant center of religious activity, hosting several significant festivals and rituals throughout the year:
-
Brahmarathotsava: An annual chariot festival celebrated during the Magha month (January-February) on the Poorva Phalguni Nakshatra. The festivities span several days, attracting devotees from various regions.
-
Kalyanotsava: A ceremonial wedding ritual performed for the deities, believed to bless unmarried individuals with suitable life partners.
-
Mahabhisheka: A grand ritual involving the ceremonial bathing of the deity, conducted with great devotion and fanfare.
Additionally, the temple houses a shrine dedicated to Goddess Lokamba Devi within its precincts. Devotees often perform special rituals here, seeking blessings for marital harmony and prosperity.
Visitor Information
-
Location: Seebi village, Sira Taluk, Tumakuru District, Karnataka.
-
Accessibility: The temple is situated approximately 20 kilometers north of Tumakuru city and is easily accessible via National Highway 4.
-
Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru, about 115 kilometers away.
-
Accommodation: While the temple itself does not offer lodging facilities, visitors can find accommodations in Tumakuru city or nearby towns.
The Seebi Narasimha Swamy Temple stands as a beacon of spiritual heritage, artistic excellence, and historical significance. Its serene ambiance, coupled with the rich tapestry of legends and art, offers a profound experience for devotees and history enthusiasts alike.