Beyond Ram Mandir: 5 Hidden Gems In Karnataka's Ramanathapura

The inauguration of Lord Ram Temple in Ayodhya holds profound significance, symbolizing not just the culmination of a long-awaited dream of millions of Hindus but also marking an important chapter in India's cultural and spiritual heritage.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the temple on January 22 with the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony. As the national spotlight is on this event, we will take you to the lesser-known yet historically significant temples nestled in the quaint village of Ramanathapura in Hassan, Karnataka.

Ramanathapura is one such place where one can find several significant temples that hold tales of their own, inviting us to explore the lesser-explored chapters of India's heritage.

It is situated in Arakalgud taluk of Hassan district of Karnataka. Located on the left bank of the Kaveri River, the town is an important pilgrimage centre. The place has been considered sacred since ancient times because of the many temples located here.

One can find several prominent temples like Rameshwaraswamy, Prasanna Subramanya, Agasteshwara, Pattabhirama, Lakshmi Narasimha, Anjaneya, and Durgarameshwari. The temples represent the impressive architectural style of the Chola and Hoysala ages and all the temples are built in Dravidian style.

This religiously important village is also known by ancient names as Samvartakapuri, Vahnikapura, and Tretapura.

1. Rameshwaraswamy Temple

The town derives its name from the famous Rameshvara Temple. Ramanathapura is connected with the story of Ramayana. As per a legend, Lord Rama and Anjaneya visited this place and worshipped Shiva. Post-Ravana's killing, Lord Rama sought Shiva's forgiveness for 'Brahmahatya' sins incurred during the battle in Sri Lanka.

Unfortunately, the historical temple tower suffered damage in 2019 due to incessant rains, leading to its temporary closure. Renowned for artistic sculptures, the temple boasts finely carved pillars, an ornate 'gopura', and intricately latticed walls adorned with rows of parakeets above 'Mantapas', enhancing its visual appeal.

2. Pattabhirama temple

One km from the Rameshwara temple stands this temple, adorned with a beautiful 'Rajagopura' Here, Lord Rama sits with goddess Sita on his lap, accompanied by Bharat, Shatrughan, Chamara-holding Hanuman on the right, and Lakshmana on the left. This unique idol, depicting Sita sitting on Ram's lap, is one of only three in India. The intricately sculpted Dwarapalakas at the 'Gopura' entrance adds grandeur to the hall.

3. Lakshmi Narasimha Tempe

This was built during the reign of Chikkadevaraja Wodeyar. The temple has undergone a lot of reconstructions and has lost its original look but from its inscription, one can say Rameshvara was a great Shiva centre.

4. Agasteshwara Temple

It is believed that this temple was constructed by sage Agastya. This temple has a rich cultural background. It is a true representative of the art, music and culture of its time. The temple is also a model of broad thinking, intellectual maturity and 'guru-shishya parampara'. The temple is also famous for its historical background and its portrayal of the emotional landscape of the society and the strength of religion.

This east-facing temple on a star-shaped platform features a 'mandapa', 'navaranga', and 'antarala'. Built-in 'ekakuta' style, it has one entrance, a 'Garbhagrha' with 'antarala', and a grand compound wall. Every wall of the temple has a tale of its own to tell. The temple architecture and the surrounding environment prove conducive to the same.

5. Prasanna Subramanya Swamy Temple

Approximately 460 years ago, Vibhudesha Theertharu Swamiji embarked on a journey to Coorg, spreading Madhva philosophy. During his travels, he founded the Subramanya Temple at Surlabbi. Divine dreams guided him and King Narasappa Nayaka to construct the Prasanna Subramanya Swamy Temple, a beautiful counterpart to Kukke Subramanya.

The temple houses a black 'Saligrama' stone deity with seven hoods. Soil from an anthill serves as the main 'Prasadam'.

From time immemorial, devotees have been visiting these temples, considered as the epicentre of spirituality. However, the elected representatives and the officials concerned are not paying attention to the development of temples with great historical and cultural backgrounds.

Ramanathapura, which once attracted tourists from all over the country, is now left with few visitors.