Virupakshi Temple Mulbagal

Virupakshi Temple
The Virupakshi Temple in Mulbagal, situated in the Kolar district of Karnataka, is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Virupaksha, a form of Lord Shiva. This ancient temple is steeped in rich history, boasting magnificent architecture, vibrant celebrations, and nearby attractions that add to its allure. The temple is located at a distance of 5 kilometer from Mulabagilu and around 30 kilometers from Kolar city. Virupakshi Temple is the one of the fewest temples that has athma linga installed and is widely known for changing colour of the linga present here. The temple has a history dated back to Vijayanagara empire.

History
The history of the Virupakshi Temple dates back centuries, believed to have been built during the rule of the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th century. The temple’s construction reflects the architectural brilliance of the Vijayanagara period, with intricate carvings adorning its walls and pillars. The Stalapurana declares that this Shivalinga was installed by sage Atrimaharshi. With passage of time, a mound of earth (Hutta) is formed. Then in the Kali Yuga the temple gets built by Lakkana Dandesha who was the governor of Mulavayi province during the rule of Devaraya-II of Vijayanagara. During his travel Lakkana Dandesha gets to stay at this place for a while where he gets a vision to build a temple for Virupaksha (the main Diety).

Architectural Significance
The temple is built in the Dravidian style with extensive inner and outer enclosures and three gates. In the main temple a square garbagriha, two ardhamantapas, rectangular and large navagraha and mukhamantapas with many pillars are seen. Inside the garbhagriha, the Tejolingam in the form of an Atmalinga, is said to have been honey coloured in the early morning and by evening attaining a mixture of white and other colours. The temple has a large kalyanamantapa to it South-Eastern part. The Shikara on topof the garbhagriha is now in a state of ruin. To the right of the temple is a an attractive water pond in the shape of a clock is found. There are high and spacious beat of drum cubicles at the entrance gate. This temple is protected by department of archaeology.

Celebrations
The Rathotsava of the Virupaksha temple is held on the Rathasaptami day after the Sankranthi. The temple comes alive during festivals, with elaborate rituals, colorful processions, and cultural
performances. Maha Shivaratri, commemorating Lord Shiva’s cosmic dance, is celebrated with great fervor, attracting thousands of devotees from far and wide. Devotees gather in large numbers during the rathotsava and it is considered an auspicious time to get blessings from Lord Virupaksha. The festival is marked by special prayers, abhishekams (ritual bathing of the deity), and fervent devotional offerings to Lord Virupaksha.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

1. Kotilingeshwara Temple: Located around 20 kilometers from Virupaksha temple, this temple complex houses one of the largest Shiva Lingas in the world, along numerous smaller lingas.
2. Avani Hill: Located around 7 kilometers from the temple is Avani Hill which is well known for breathtaking views and enjoyable trekking experience.
3. Anthargange: Situated approximately 30 kilometers away, Anathargange is a popular trekking destination known for its rocky terrain and cave exploration.
4. Kurudumale Ganesha Temple: Situated at a distance of 12 Kilometers, thus revered Hindu shrine is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It is famous for its ancient idol of Lord ganesha, carved out of singleblack stone or Saligrama.

Nearest Hotels
1. Balaji Bhavan, Bypass Road Mulbagilu, Mob no. 7795388673
2. VVR Anand Bhavan Bypass Road Bypalli Mob no. 9986632304(Nithin)

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