Banashankari Amma Temple located near Badami in Karnataka is a highly revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Parvati. This ancient temple was built by Kalyani Chalukya kings in the 7th Century; the current structure is built in 18th century. The presiding deity is known as Banashankari or Shakambhari. Locals also mention the name as Vanashankari Temple since it is located in the Tilakaaranya forest (“Vana” means forest and Shankari means “wife of Shiva”). The exact location of the temple is in Cholachagudd, 5 km from Badami on the road to Gadag, in Bagalkot district.
Banashankari Temple was first constructed in Dravidian style of architecture. The current rebuilt structure is in Vijayanagara style of architecture and features a mukha mantapa, ardha mantapa and a sanctum topped by a Vimana (tower). The image of Goddess Banashankari in black stone sculpture can be seen in the main sanctum. The goddess is enshrined with eight hands and seated on a lioness trampling a demon under her foot. She is depicted holding a trishul (trident), damaru (hand drum), kapaalpatra (skull cup), ghanta (war bell), Vedic scriptures and khadg-kheta (sword and shield).
Legend
According to the Skanda Purana and Padma Purana, Goddess Shakambari appeared through the fire of the Yagna (fire-sacrifice) to kill the demon Durgamasura who has been troubling the people constantly. Banashankari Temple is visited by devotees from Karnataka, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.
Festival
Banashankari Jatre, the annual festival of the temple, is celebrated in the months of January – February. Rath Yatra, boat festival and numerous cultural programs are organized as part of the festival.
Banashankari Temple was first constructed in Dravidian style of architecture. The current rebuilt structure is in Vijayanagara style of architecture and features a mukha mantapa, ardha mantapa and a sanctum topped by a Vimana (tower). The image of Goddess Banashankari in black stone sculpture can be seen in the main sanctum. The goddess is enshrined with eight hands and seated on a lioness trampling a demon under her foot. She is depicted holding a trishul (trident), damaru (hand drum), kapaalpatra (skull cup), ghanta (war bell), Vedic scriptures and khadg-kheta (sword and shield).
Legend
According to the Skanda Purana and Padma Purana, Goddess Shakambari appeared through the fire of the Yagna (fire-sacrifice) to kill the demon Durgamasura who has been troubling the people constantly. Banashankari Temple is visited by devotees from Karnataka, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.
Festival
Banashankari Jatre, the annual festival of the temple, is celebrated in the months of January – February. Rath Yatra, boat festival and numerous cultural programs are organized as part of the festival.
How to Reach
Banashankari Temple is around 5 km from Badami on the road to Gadag. Badami Railway Station is the nearest railhead. Hubli Airport, around 125 km away, is the nearest airbase to reach the temple.
MATTE MATTE KARISKO TAYI BANASHANKARI 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
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