Hariharapura Swayambhu Dakshahara Someshwara Temple – Karnataka

Address

Hariharapura Swayambhu Dakshahara Someshwara Temple – Karnataka

Hariharapura, Chikmagalur district,

Karnataka 577120

Moolavar

Someshwara

Introduction

. Location:

• Hariharapura is an ancient pilgrimage site located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, situated along the banks of the Tunga River, which flows to the north.
• The northward flow of the river makes the area a Siddha Kshetra, a sacred site where spiritual practices are believed to elevate both spiritual and material life.

Puranic Significance:

• Siddha Kshetra: The area is praised in Vedic and mythological texts as a place that removes sins and aids in spiritual advancement.
• Historical Importance: The site is closely linked to the Vijayanagara Empire, particularly under the reign of Harihararaya, the second ruler of the empire, who is said to have renovated and named the Agrahara of Hariharapura after himself.
• Connection to Shankaracharya: The Vijayanagara rulers, including Harihararaya, were devoted to the Shankaracharya Dharmapeetham at Hariharapura, donating lands and villages for its upkeep.
• Dakshama Yagna: According to the Skanda Puran, the Daksh Maha Yagna took place in Hariharapura, and it is referred to as “Daksharama.” The site is associated with the emergence of Lord Shiva as Yagna Purusha from the Homa Kunda of Daksha Prajapati.
• Swayambhu Dakshahara Someshwara Temple: The ancient temple in Hariharapura houses a self-manifested (Swayambhu) idol of Lord Shiva, further affirming its spiritual significance.

Special Features:

• Temple Architecture: The Sri Someshwara Swamy Temple in Hariharapura is more than 1500 years old. It features intricate carvings that depict scenes from the Ramayana on its three sides.
• Sri Someshwara Yagashala: Adjacent to the Sharada Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, the Yagashala is an important structure where Homas and Yagnyas are performed year-round by qualified priests. The Yagashala follows traditional Agama and Vastu Shastra principles, and its unique design incorporates pyramid-shaped roofs and pillars that function as energy centers to enhance the efficacy of the rituals.
• Lord Yagnyeshwara: The deity of Yagnyeshwara, the Lord of fire, along with his consorts Swaaha and Swadhaa, who are carriers of offerings (Ahuti), is enshrined within the Yagashala. This rare feature makes the Yagashala an important center for performing fire rituals.

Religious and Cultural Significance:

• Hariharapura is regarded as a Yagna Bhoomi, a sacred land ideal for performing Homas and Yagnyas, due to its association with the legendary Daksha Maha Yagna.
• The temple complex and Yagashala continue to be active centers of worship and spiritual practice, drawing devotees for purification, spiritual growth, and the performance of sacred fire rituals.

References

https://tamilnadu-favtourism.blogspot.com

Century/Period

1500 Years Old

Nearest Bus Station

Hariharapura

Nearest Railway Station

Shimoga Station

Nearest Airport

Mangalore

Location on Map

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