Umamaheshwari Temple

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Overview

Hosagunda is a small village located in the Sagar taluk of Shimoga district, Karnataka. Lying amids the Western Ghats mountain range, the temple is located about 16 km from Sagar town and is 60 km from Shimoga. Hosagunda is a site of historical importance. It is well known for the ruins of ancient temples and monuments found here. Historical facts states that Hosagunda had served as the capital of a dynasty that ruled the region for over 300 years. The stone inscriptions found in the dense forests of Hosagunda, mentions the fact that it was ruled by the Santara kings. The ruin of the palaces and other excavations in the region shows that the region was inhabited by humans even during the Iron Age. Recently unearthed inscriptions have revealed that king Bhujabala was the first ruler of the dynasty that ruled the region from 1110AD. This kingdom is believed to have thrived till1320 AD.

About The Temple

The Umamaheshwari Temple is said to have been built during the 10th century. The temple is constructed in a area of 2,400 square feet and has a Chalukya style of design. The architecture of the temple stands unique and significant. Green marbles are extensively used in the flooring of the sanctum sanctorum, auditorium, patio, and amphi-theatre. The pillars and wooden beams on the roof are beautifully sculpted and stands as a living proof for the architectural brilliance of that time. The amphitheatre is conveniently open from three sides - east, north, and south directions for better viewing. The temple is known as the ‘Khajuraho’ of Malnad because of he presence of many artistically sculpted figurines. The ruins of the temples—Veerabhadra, Mahisha-Mardini, Kanchikalamma, Prasanna Narayan, and Laxmi Ganapati—have been found, and is in dire need of restoration.

Legend and Stories

According to History, Hosagunda served as the capital city of the Shanthara rulers from 11th century to 14th century. Sri Uma Maheshwara Temple is said to have been constructed around that period. With the end of Shanthara dynasty, Hosagunda was reduced to mere ruins. Forests covered almost all of Hosaguda including the Uma Maheswari Temple. The place was covered by thick forest and remained hidden for the next 600 years. Very less people were aware of the existence of this temple. Efforts were made in the year 1995 to restore this temple to its lost glory. Presently, the Dharmastala Manjunathershwara trust has taken the responsibility of renovating the Temple. Religious rituals pertaining to the deity are conducted by Ramachandrapura Math.

Accessibility

Airport

The nearest domestic Airport is the Dumna Airport in Jabalpur which is roughly four hour drive from Sagar.

Railways

Sagar Jambagaru Railway Station is the closest station to this temple. Railways ply trains from this railway stations to places like Hosagunda, Bhatkal, etc. Hubli Jn Rail Way Station is major railway station and is 147 KM away from Hosagunda.

Road

Roads connect the town with the famous Jog Falls, Bhatkal, etc which are the places near Hosagunda.

Temple Address