Halasuru Subrahmanya Swamy Temple, Karnataka

Address

Old Madras Rd, Halasuru, Lingayana Palya,

Bengaluru, Karnataka 560008

Moolavar

Subrahmanya Swamy

Amman

Valli and Devasena

Introduction

The Sri Subrahmanya Temple is a revered site believed to be over 800 years old. Located near the Halasuru Someshwara Temple and opposite the Sri Adhi Vinayaka Temple, close to the Halasuru metro station, it is considered older than the Someshwara Temple. Here, Lord Subrahmanya, also known as Ananda Murugan, is enshrined in a manner reminiscent of the Murugan at Thiruthani, one of the Arupadaiveedus (six abodes) of Murugan. In this temple, Lord Subrahmanya is flanked by Valli on His right and Devasena on His left, each in separate shrines.

Puranic Significance:

Historical Legend: The temple’s origin is tied to a story about a Maharaja of Mysore. While traveling to visit his uncle, who was afflicted with an eye disease, the Maharaja learned of devotees worshiping at an anthill on the temple’s current site. The Maharaja vowed to build a temple there if his uncle was cured. Upon his return to Mysore, he found that his uncle had indeed been healed. True to his vow, the Maharaja commissioned the construction of the temple as an act of gratitude.
Sage Mandavya’s Connection: Another legend suggests that Sage Mandavya was instructed by Lord Subrahmanya to build the temple. There is also a belief that the temple was constructed around the same time as the Sri Someshwara Temple, further linking it to Sage Mandavya’s influence.

Special Features:

Shrines and Deities: The temple features separate shrines for Chandikeshwara and Nagadevata. It is thought that the temple was originally a Shiva temple, evident from the presence of deities such as Ardha Nareeshwara, Durga, Surya Narayana, Sage Agastya, Navagrahas, and Kalabhairava. The temple follows Shaivagama guidelines, and typical Shiva temple elements like Nandis are present on the temple walls, along with a shrine for Lord Vishnu at the back entrance.
Sthala Vriksha and Tank: The Sthala Vriksha (sacred tree) of the temple is the Athi tree. Additionally, the temple complex includes a tank, which adds to its historical and spiritual significance.