The Sri Kalaseshwara Swamy Temple, revered as Dakshina Kashi (Kashi of the South), is an ancient Shaivite shrine located at Kalasa in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. Nestled amidst the lush forests of the Western Ghats and situated on the banks of the sacred Bhadra River, the temple is both a spiritual centre and a place of striking natural beauty. Its antiquity, legends, and continuous worship make it one of the most important Shiva temples in the Malnad region.
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| Sri Kalaseshwara Swamy Temple Chikmagalur resortschikmagalur.in |
According to tradition, the temple’s origin is linked to Sage Agastya, who is believed to have consecrated the unique Shiva Linga here. The presiding deity, Sri Kalaseshwara Swamy, is worshipped in the form of a Kalasha-shaped Linga—distinctive for its pot-like form, symbolising abundance, cosmic energy, and divine grace. Mythology associates Kalasa with the episode of Agastya balancing the earth’s weight and establishing Shaivite worship in the southern regions, giving the temple its exalted title of Dakshina Kashi.
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Architecturally, the temple reflects the Dravidian style, with later additions from the Hoysala and Vijayanagara periods. The sanctum is simple yet powerful in its spiritual ambience, housing the Kalasha Linga, while the temple complex includes subsidiary shrines, a spacious courtyard, and pillared halls. The proximity of the Bhadra River enhances its ritual importance, as devotees perform sacred baths and offerings as part of their pilgrimage.
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Religiously, the temple holds great significance for Shaivites, especially during Maha Shivaratri, which is celebrated with special abhishekas, night-long prayers, and processions. The annual car festival and other temple utsavas draw devotees from across Karnataka and neighbouring states.
In the present day, Sri Kalaseshwara Swamy Temple continues to thrive as a living centre of worship. Managed by temple authorities with support from the state, it benefits from conservation efforts and improved facilities for pilgrims. Surrounded by hills, forests, and flowing waters, the temple remains a serene spiritual destination where history, devotion, and nature blend seamlessly.
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