Temple Description

Hasanamba Temple, situated in Hassan, Karnataka, India, is dedicated to the Goddess Shakti or Amba and was built around the 12th century CE. This temple, notable for its historical and architectural significance, opens only once a year during the Deepavali festival in October.

**History**

Constructed around the 12th century CE, the exact date of the temple’s construction is not well-documented. Archeological experts regard Hasanamba Temple as a prime example of Karnataka’s temple architecture. The city of Hassan, dating back to the 11th century CE, features temples that reflect the various ruling dynasties from that era. Originally built by the Hoysala dynasty, the temple’s architecture follows the Hoysala tradition, which was heavily influenced by Jainism.

**Architecture**

Inside the temple, an ant-hill symbolizes the presiding deity. There is also a distinctive depiction of the demon-king Ravana with nine heads, rather than the usual ten, playing a veena. Additionally, an unusual representation of Siddeshwara Swamy, typically not shown in the Linga form, is present, depicted as Lord Shiva in a unique posture.

**Religious Significance**

The temple’s rarity of being open only for a week each year during Deepavali adds to its special status. For the rest of the year, offerings such as a ghee-lit lamp, flowers, water, and two bags of rice are made, which remain untouched and preserved throughout the temple’s closure. The enduring nature of these offerings adds to the temple’s reverence and mystique in Hassan.