Temple Description

The Sri Banashankari Temple, situated on Sri S Kariyappa Road, is one of the notable temples in the state. Established approximately 106 years ago, it is a 20th-century temple dedicated to the original deity, Banashankari. While the temple itself is a human-made structure, the Anjaneya Swamy idol is believed to be swayambhu (self-manifested).

The area is named Banashankari in honor of this temple. In 2010, the government assumed responsibility for the temple, and the Religious Endowment Department oversaw its renovation. Unfortunately, there are no inscriptions or records to trace its complete history. The temple features sculptures on its pillars depicting the Shiva Parivara. A well located in the corridor has consistently provided water for Abhisheka and has never run dry over the years.

The temple’s original goddess is the Banashankari from Badami. It was established by Basappa Shetty, a philanthropist from the Ganiga community, who built it for his clan. After falling ill, he dreamt that the goddess instructed him to retrieve the idol from Badami. He complied and founded the temple, which was officially established by his descendants, including Somanna Shetty, on May 21, 1915. The main idols are Shankthi Swarupini and Simha Vahini.

One of the temple’s unique features is the Rahukala puja, during which lemon peel lamps are offered on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Fridays. Many devotees believe their desires are fulfilled through worship at this temple, which is also said to alleviate issues related to sterility and Jathaka dosha. The goddess’s birthday is celebrated on the full moon day of Bhadrapada, marked by various alankars, Homa, and Havana during the special festivities of Navarathri.