Yelluru Shree Vishweshwara Temple, an ancient Hindu temple, is located in the Yellur village of Udupi district in the Indian state of Karnataka. The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Vishweshwara or Lord Shiva.
Legends of Yelluru Shri Vishweshwara Temple
The rich history of the temple echoes several legends and mythological stories. According to one legendry tale Lord Ullaya was once very pleased with the devotion and worship of one of his devotees who belonged to the Kunda Hegde family. The lord thus, descended to Yelluru from Kashi.
According to another legend, the Lord had appeared from underground, pleased with the devotion of Samanta Raja of Kuthyar Dynasty. The idol was discovered by a Koraga community woman. She was collecting firewood from the forest where `Yellu,` her son was buried. While she was striking the bushes with the axe, she once hit the ground that began bleeding. The women felt it was her son while it was actually the idol of the lord. The mark of the wound is still visible.
Construction of Yelluru Shree Vishweshwara Temple
Yelluru Shree Vishweshwara Temple, a 1000 years old temple, is regarded as Swayambhu Saannidhya. The temple stands as an exclusive example of Devaayathana style of architecture and finds its mention in 12 rock edicts. There are separate shrines for Lord Vinayaka and Goddess Annapoorneshwari that dates back to 10th and 16th century respectively.
The northern side of the temple houses a small temple by a lake dedicated to Bhagirathi. Another shrine, located few kms away, is dedicated to Veerabhadra, the loyal assistant of Lord Shiva. The main temple has undergone few renovation works and was re-inaugurated on 4th March 2009.
Yelluru Shree Vishweshwara Temple observes certain rituals and conducts few special poojas such as Shatarudhrabhishka, Hoovina Puja, Teertha Snana and Yelaneeru Abhisheka and Yelaneeru Tulabhara. Devotees visiting the temple offer tender coconut and gold coins to the Lord. The special time to visit the temple is during the Lakshadeeepa uthsav or the lighting of one lakh lamps, conducted during the months of November-December.
