Nada Sri Sadashiva Rudra Gudi – Surya - Karnataka

Address

Nada Sri Sadashiva Rudra Gudi – Surya –

Surya Temple Road, Nada Village,

Dakshina Kannada district,

Karnataka 574214

Moolavar

Sri Sadashiva Rudra

Introduction

The Surya Sadashiva Temple is located in Nada Village, situated in the Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka, India. It lies approximately 4 kilometers from Ujire town and about 12 kilometers from Belthangady taluk. This temple is dedicated to Surya Sadashiva Rudra Devaru, a form of Lord Shiva. The temple is known for its construction in the traditional coastal architectural style, which reflects the region’s cultural heritage.

Puranic Significance

The Surya Sadashiva Temple is believed to have been constructed around 1200 years ago, based on an analysis by Mr. Laurie Honko, a renowned folklore expert from Finland. His research, combined with insights from local folk literature, provides a rough estimate of the temple’s age.
A unique aspect of the temple is its tradition of clay offerings. Devotees offer clay sculptures to Lord Shiva after their wishes are fulfilled. This practice is one of the defining features of the temple, making it distinctive among other temples.
- Clay offerings are made primarily on Mondays, accompanied by a kilogram of rice and a coconut.
- The temple offers a wide range of clay sculptures to choose from, each symbolizing different wishes:
  - Bride and groom sculptures symbolize the desire for marriage.
  - Tables and chairs are offered for employment or career-related wishes.
The clay offering tradition is closely followed by the practice of visiting a nearby temple for further prayers, as part of the ritual after one’s wish comes true.

Special Features

Kalyani (Stepped Well): Outside the temple is a kalyani, a traditional stepped well surrounded by lush green vegetation. A small paved path leads to the well, which is known for its deep blue water. The serene and picturesque setting of the well adds to the tranquil atmosphere of the temple complex, offering a place for reflection and spiritual rejuvenation.