Nanjundeshwara Temple

Sri Nanjundeshwara Temple at Nanjangud is one of the ancient temples of Karnataka. The original Nanjundeshwara temple is said to be of Ganga period (325 - 1000 CE). Later, this temple has then been renovated by the Hoysala kings. Both Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan had close associations with this temple. Wodeyar kings have provided various grants to renovate the temple. It is believed that sage Gauthama stayed here for some time and has installed a Shiva Linga, the idol of Lord Shiva. Lord Nanjundeswara also referred to as Lord Srikanteswara, Vishakanta, Nanjunda. It is also believed that Lord Nanjundeshwara cures diseases of his devotees. The spacious temple also houses minor shrines of Lord Narayana, Chandikeswara, Parvathi, Natya Ganapathi and others.

Nanjundeshwara temple is known for its wealth of sculptures. The Shiva Leelas are of exquisite craftmanship. The Muslim ruler Tipu Sultan was a great patron of this temple. His elephant was cured twice of major ailments with the Grace of Sri Nanjundeshwara. Hence Tipu Sultan called the Lord Hakim Nanjundeshwara and presented to the shrine valuable jewellery and a Maragatha Linga, which is installed by the side of the Goddess shrine. Sage Parasurama did penance on this holy soil. There is a shrine for him near the Swarnavati river. An ancient mutt of Sri Raghavendraswami is situated in the town. The Gurus image is said to have been found in river Cauvery by a king, who consecrated it in the mutt.

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