Kudroli Sri Gokarnanatheshwara Temple
A landmark Shiva temple built in 1912 at the initiative of social reformer Sri Narayana Guru, historically significant as a temple open to the Billava community during a period of caste-based temple-entry restrictions.
Photos of Kudroli Sri Gokarnanatheshwara Temple
History & Significance
History & Origin
The temple was built in 1912 through the efforts of Adhyaksha Koragappa of Hoige Bazar and consecrated by Sri Narayana Guru, who selected the site specifically to give the Billava community, then barred from many established temples, a place of worship of their own.
Religious & Cultural Significance
Gokarnanatha is venerated as the 'Aadi' deity of the Billava community, and the temple is one of Mangaluru's most visited shrines, especially known for its grand Navaratri illuminations.
Architecture
Originally built in Kerala style, the complex was substantially rebuilt in Chola-style architecture with a 60-foot gopuram carrying murals of Hindu epics; the rebuilt temple was formally inaugurated by Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1991.
Traditions
The temple hosts one of Mangaluru's best-known Dasara (Navaratri) celebrations, with elaborately lit tableaux and a public procession that has become a citywide cultural event.
Festivals & Events
- Mangaluru Dasara (Navaratri)
- Maha Shivaratri
Location
- Address
- Shree Gokarnanatha Kshetra, Kudroli, Mangaluru, Karnataka 575003
- Area
- Kudroli
- City
- Mangaluru
- Taluk
- Mangaluru
- District
- Dakshina Kannada
- State
- Karnataka
- PIN Code
- 575003