- Shiva
Nellitheertha Cave Temple
- Karnataka
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The Nellitheertha Cave Temple is located in Nellitheertha town, which is present in the Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka. There is a temple dedicated to Somanatheshwara or Lord Shiva in Nellitheertha. This temple dates back to the 15th century. This temple has a Shiva Linga and also shrines for Maha Ganapathi and Jabali Maharishi. The Nellitheertha Cave Temple is located inside this temple. Near the entrance, to the left, this cave has a huge entrance, but once inside, one has to crawl on one's knees to proceed. Inside, there is a lake and a Shiva Linga. The lake was formed by water dripping into the cave in droplets. The droplets look like Nelli which means gooseberry. This is the reason for the name Nellitheertha.
Significance
Devotees visit this temple to seek fulfillment of the following:-
- To overcome hurdles
Shlokas
Kailaasarana Shiva Chandramouli Phaneendra Maathaa Mukutee Zalaalee Kaarunya Sindhu Bhava Dukha Haaree Thujaveena Shambho Maja Kona Taaree
Meaning -Oh Lord Shiva who is seated on Mount Kailash, where the moon decorates his forehead and the king of serpents crown his head, who is merciful and removes delusion, You alone can protect me. I surrender to thee.
Aum Trayambakam Yajaamahey Sugandhim Pusti Vardhanam Urvaarukamiva Bandhanaath Mrutyor Muksheeya Maamritaat
Meaning -We worship the fragrant Lord Shiva, who has 3 eyes and who cultivates all beings. May He free me from death, for immortality, as even a cucumber is separated from its bond with the vine.