Horanadu Annapoorneshwari(Annapurneswari) Temple- Karnataka

Address

Horanadu Annapoorneshwari(Annapurneswari) Temple- Hornadu, Srikshetra Horanadu, Chikmagalur District, Karnataka- 577181 Phone Number :+91 -08263- 274614, 269714, 269509

Deity

Amman: Annapoorneshwari (Parvati)

Introduction

Location: The Annapoorneshwari Temple, also known as Annapurneswari Temple, is situated in Horanadu, along the banks of the River Bhadra in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, India. Nestled in the lush forests and valleys of the Western Ghats, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Annapoorneshwari, the goddess of nourishment and food.
Meaning: The name “Annapoorneshwari” translates to “Feeding one and all.” Visitors to the temple are graciously offered meals and shelter on the premises.
Temple Description: Horanadu is located about 100 km southwest of Chikmagalur and is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. The ancient temple of Goddess Annapoorneshwari has been restored and is now known as the Adi-Shaktyatmaka Shree Annapoorneshwari. The main idol depicts the goddess standing on a peeta (platform) while holding a Shanku (conch), Chakra (discus), Sri Chakra, and Devi Gayathri in her four hands.

Puranic Significance

Historical Context: The temple is also referred to as Sri Adhishakthyathmaka Annapoorneshwari or Sri Kshetra Horanadu Temple. According to tradition, the main deity was established by Adi Shankaracharya, with a new idol consecrated in 1973.
Mythology: One popular legend recounts a dispute between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. To prove that food is real and not an illusion (Maya), Goddess Parvati vanished, causing the world to face drought and stillness. In her compassion, she later appeared and distributed food, earning her the name Devi Annapoorna.
Another Legend: There is an intriguing myth involving Lord Shiva and Lord Brahma. After beheading Brahma, Shiva’s hand was cursed until the skull he held was filled with food. After many failed attempts to fill the skull, Lord Shiva came to the temple, where Maa Annapoorna filled it with grains, lifting the curse.

Special Features

Etymology: The term Annapoorna derives from “Anna” (grains or food) and “Poorna” (perfect or complete), symbolizing the concept of complete nourishment.
Divine Form: Sri Annapoorneshwari is considered an incarnation of Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. She is revered in various ancient texts, including Rudrayamala, Annapurnamalininaksatramalika, Sivarahasya, and Annapurna Kavacha.
Idol Description: The idol of Goddess Annapoorneshwari stands on a peetha, adorned with gold and carrying the Shanku, Chakra, Sri Chakra, and Devi Gayatri in her four hands. It is believed that those who visit the goddess will never face hunger in their lives.
Temple Structure: Worshippers must ascend a flight of steps to reach the temple complex, which features a Gopura (entrance) decorated with intricate sculptures of deities. The temple’s mantapa is located to the left of the main entrance, and the ceilings showcase beautiful carvings. Surrounding the main sanctum (Garbhagruha) is Adi Sesha, with the Padma Peeta composed of Koorma and Ashtagaja, among others.

Festivals

Rathotsava: A five-day festival celebrated between February and March, showcasing the temple’s vibrant traditions.
Akshaya Thadige: Also known as Akshaya Tritiya, this festival takes place between April and May to mark the birth of Goddess Annapoorneshwari and the advent of summer.
Navaratri: A nine-day festival dedicated to the nine forms of Goddess Durga, celebrated in September – October.