Nestled in the historic town of Hassan, Karnataka, the Hasanamba Temple stands as a symbol of enduring faith, ancient architecture, and divine mystery. Built in the 12th century by the Hoysalas, one of South India's most renowned dynasties, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Hasanamba, a revered form of Devi Durga, worshipped as the guardian deity of the region.
What distinguishes Hasanamba Temple from other ancient shrines is its unique tradition, the temple opens its doors to devotees only once a year during the Deepavali festival, while remaining closed for the rest of the year. Despite being accessible for just five days annually, thousands of devotees gather to seek blessings for prosperity, good health, and spiritual well-being.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this temple lies in the mystical rituals performed before it closes each year. As part of the ceremonial practices:
- A ghee lamp is lit within the sanctum.
- Fresh flowers and cooked rice (prasadam) are offered to the goddess.
Inexplicably, when the temple reopens the following year, the ghee lamp remains alight, the flowers appear fresh, and the prasadam remains unspoiled, despite the temple being sealed for an entire year. These phenomena are regarded as miraculous and are seen by devotees as evidence of the goddess's divine presence.
Local folklore adds to the temple’s mystique. It is believed that one of the stone statues within the temple complex slowly moves toward the sanctum of Goddess Hasanamba. According to tradition, when the statue finally merges with the deity, it will signify the end of Kaliyuga, the current age of darkness and decline as per Hindu cosmology.
The name "Hasanamba" itself translates to “Smiling Mother”, a reflection of the goddess's benevolent nature and protective presence over the town of Hassan.
The annual opening of the Hasanamba Temple during Deepavali, the festival that celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, is a time of great spiritual significance for the people of Hassan and devotees across the region.
The Hasanamba Temple is not just an architectural marvel but a sacred space where faith, tradition, and mystery converge. Its centuries-old rituals and unexplained phenomena continue to draw curiosity and devotion, preserving its status as one of Karnataka's most unique and revered spiritual landmarks.
Image Credit / Source : Times Of India , Wikipedia, Famous Temples of India, Shashikiran Mullur