Bull temple or Bengaluru’s own Dodda Basava is invariably the most famous temple in the city. With Basavanagudi, one of the oldest areas of Bengaluru getting its name from this temple, Bengalurians need no reasons to visit this heritage place. There is Dodda Ganapathi, Bugle rock, and the vibe of Basavanagudi to make it even more encouraging for the fellow citizens. Today, we are here with a few Interesting things about the iconic Bull temple. So, why delay? Come, let’s get into the details.
The Sacred Bull
As the name says, Bull temple is dedicated to Hindu demi-god, known as Nandi. It is believed to be sacred and in this culture, it is worshipped as God.
Significance of Nandi
The word ‘Nandi’ translates to ‘Joy’ in Sanskrit and as per the Hindu scriptures, it is said to be the vehicle of Lord Shiva. Besides beliefs, there is a science behind placing Nandi in front of Shiva. Nandi is a symbol of eternal waiting. The one who knows how to simply sit and wait is naturally meditative. So, he is giving out a message, “When you go in, don’t do your fanciful things. Don’t ask for this or that. Just go and sit like me.”
The Biggest Nandi Idol in the World
The Nandi you see in this temple is around 4.6 meters in height and about 6.1 meters in length. This makes it the biggest Nandi idol in the world or at least it is believed so. It is an experience indeed to witness such a marvelous structure in a metropolitan like Bengaluru.
It Was Originally Grey In Color
Yes, today the Nandi statue you see appears to be black in color but it wasn’t when it was built. It was actually grey in color. Over a period of time, devotees applying charcoal and oil has blackened the statue.
Built in the year 1537
It is an age-old temple built somewhere back in 1537 by Kempegowda. Till date, the temple has been unchanged, largely with centuries passed. However, the Vimana that towers over the shrine is believed to be built during the early 20th century.
The architecture of the temple
The Nandi idol is carved out of a single granite stone. There is a Linga behind it while the Vimana is embellished by Shaiv motifs. Speaking about temple’s architecture, it is largely influenced by the Vijayanagara style.
A Story Behind
The story goes like the area was rich in the cultivation of groundnuts and peanuts. And there lived a Bull who used to damage the crops. As the damages went on to increase, farmers worried and then thought to build a temple for the bull in hopes of pleasing it. Later on, like a miracle, the bull stopped destroying the crops.
Annual Groundnut Fare in bull temple
In line with the story, farmers started conducting a groundnut fair and it is known as Kadalekai Parishe. It has been a continuous celebration and even today, Basavanagudi and the Bull temple is famous for this amazing Groundnut fare.
Nearby Attractions
When you visit Bull temple then you have a lot of things to do nearby. There is Dodda Ganapathi temple, Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple, Bugle Rock Garden, and the very own Vidyarthi Bhavan for Dosey. Recommended: Things to do in Basavanagudi
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