In the prime area of one of Bengaluru’s most iconic heritage neighborhoods, the Kadu Malleshwara Temple continues its centuries-old tradition with the Brahma Rathotsava of 2026. This chariot festival is the crowning jewel of the temple’s annual calendar, transforming the bustling streets of Malleswaram into a vibrant arena of spiritual fervor and cultural pride.
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| Rathotsava Kadu Malleshwara prokerala.com |
Origin and History
The origin of the Rathotsava is tied to the Sri Kadu Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, which dates back to the 17th century. Historical records and inscriptions (such as the 1669 CE Ekoji inscription) indicate that the temple was built or patronized by Venkoji (Ekoji), the half-brother of the Maratha King Chhatrapati Shivaji.
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| Sri Kadu Mallikarjuna Swamy Bengaluru justdial.com |
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| Kadu Malleshwara Rathotsava prokerala.com |
The name "Kadu" (forest) refers to the dense jungle that once surrounded the hillock where the temple sits. The Rathotsava was established as an annual thanksgiving ritual, a "Brahma Rathotsava," intended to celebrate the presence of the self-manifested (Swayambhu) Shivalinga and to seek the deity's blessings for the prosperity of the local settlement.
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| Brahma Rathotsava, swadesi.com |
Abobe image: Trained folk artists perform during the ‘Brahma Rathotsava’ religious procession near Kadu Malleshwara Swamy Temple, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, Monday, Feb. 16, 2026.......
Significance and 2026 Highlights
The Rathotsava typically coincides with the Mahashivaratri period. In 2026, the grand Brahma Rathotsava is scheduled for February 16, following the Maha Shivaratri celebrations on February 15.
The festival holds immense significance for the "Malleshwaris" (residents of Malleswaram):
Spiritual Cleansing: It is believed that pulling the chariot cleanses one of past sins and brings physical and mental well-being.
The Procession: The idol of Lord Mallikarjuna, accompanied by Goddess Bhramarambika, is placed on a massive, decorated wooden chariot. It is pulled along the "Temple Street" (2nd Temple Street), passing by the famous Dakshinamukha Nandi Tirtha.
Community Unity: The event brings together thousands of people from various walks of life, symbolizing the "Old Bengaluru" charm of communal harmony and heritage preservation.
Notable Facts
The Panjina Procession: In 2026, the festivities are marked by a special Panjina (torch-light) procession in the evening, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle.
Cultural Tapestry: The 2026 event features over 15 cultural teams from across Karnataka, including traditional drum troupes from Tamil Nadu, highlighting the cross-border cultural influence of the region.
The Name: It is this very temple and its festivities that gave the entire locality its name—Malleswaram.
https://swadesi.com/brahma-rathotsava-in-bengaluru-8
https://www.hindu-blog.com/2025/06/malleswaram-sri-kadu-malleswara-swamy-rathotsava-shivratri.html
