The crowds at the Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple in Bengaluru went into raptures of ecstasy, as the rays of the sun illuminated the deity inside the dark cave with a golden light. A few minutes before the rays had pierced the darkness, caressing the Nandi in front of the Shiva Linga, and struck the top of Shiva’s symbol, slowly moving downwards, to finally enclose the Shiva Linga completely in a golden glow. We had witnessed this celestial spectacle as kids, and that experience remains embedded in our memory to this day.
Talking about the Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple Bengaluru, it is a temple that holds many secrets and is full of mysteries. The celestial occurrence on the 14th of January at the Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple is well known. However, did you know a similar phenomenon can be observed on another day, 30 November/01 December?
We take you here on a fascinating journey which will decode for you the mysteries of Bengaluru’s famed Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple.
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Shri Gavi Gangadhareshwara Swamy Devasthana
Have you ever wondered why many ancient Shiva temples across India are found in caves, mountains, and other inaccessible places? The Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple in Bangalore is one such temple. We have visited quite a few of these mysterious Shiva temples, including the Patal Bhuvaneshwar temple. You have to squeeze yourself through a small opening to reach the temple about 80 feet underground.
The Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple is dedicated to Shiva who is worshipped as Gangadhareshwara, “the one who carries Ganga.” In Kannada, Gavi refers to a cave or cavern, and hence the name of the temple is Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple, as it lies within a narrow cave, below the ground. This temple is famous not only for its religious and spiritual importance but also for its architectural and astronomical significance.
Visiting Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple
The city was just rousing itself from slumber, daybreak had just happened. We parked our car near the Gavipuram Circle, where the statue of Bangalore’s founder, Kempegowda, surveyed the sparse traffic, sword in hand. We had decided to take the rear entrance to the Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple. We have always found this route more dramatic, as you need to climb up on a rock to gain access to the temple.
A parliament of crows circled above, as we entered a massive arch, on the edge of the road, to climb a few metres towards the rear entrance of the temple. We passed through another smaller arch to emerge into a narrow corridor that took us past a few old houses. Soon we stood directly in front of a massive wall painted with red and white stripes. This was the wall that surrounded the Gavi Gangadharehwara temple.
An arched opening on the top of the wall gave us the first quick glimpse of the temple, and more importantly, one of the mysterious discs that stands atop a monolithic pillar in the forecourt of the temple. Walking a few yards parallel to the wall followed by a left turn and we were right in front of an iron gate, that led into the forecourt of the temple. There is a board in Kannada above the gate, that says, “Shri Gavi Gangadhareshwara Swamy Devasthana.”
It was early morning, and the sanctum had not yet opened, the temple was being cleaned, however, the gate was open, and we got the forecourt of the temple to ourselves for exploring and taking pictures. Incidentally, photography is allowed only in the forecourt, and prohibited in the inner hall and sanctum.
Architecture And Layout of Gavigangadhareshwara Temple
Sri Gavi Gangadhareshwara Swamy Temple is a classic example of an Indian rock-cut temple, though outwardly it does not seem so, however, looks can be deceptive.
As soon as you enter the gate of the Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple, you step onto what could be called the first level of the temple. It is a small rectangular courtyard, plain and unremarkable, bar the monolithic Trishul and Damaru that stand at both ends of the courtyard. They look majestic and convey the fact that this is no ordinary temple. As you gaze upwards towards the top of the two famous symbols associated with Shiva, both seem to pierce the grey morning sky and exude a surreal radiance.
A descent of just a couple of steps and you are at the second level. This is similar to the courtyard on the first level, with similar dimensions. However, here the two ends of the courtyard are marked by two monolithic pillars topped with large discs, about 6 feet in diameter. They look like giant lollipops to the untrained eye, however, an expert will quickly make out the two Nandis sitting on top of the pillars, facing away from each other. Closer observation of the discs reveals another amazing fact. They look uncannily like crosshairs.
The dictionary meaning of crosshair is that crosshairs are two thin wires that cross each other in a gun or other device. They are also called a reticle, which is a series of lines in an optical piece that helps focus an image. Such was the knowledge of optical physics, astronomy, and architecture of the builders of the ancient temple, that they were able to conceive and implement such an amazing idea.
Between the two monolithic disc pillars, which are known as Suryapana and Chandrapana, representing the Sun and the Moon respectively is a tall brass Dhwajasthambha or Flagpole. In front of the Dhwajasthambha sits a small Nandi inside a square pavilion supported by four pillars in the corner. The Nandi is gazing at a grill door that leads into the actual Mandapa or outer hall of the Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple.
If you look at the paintings of the Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple by Thomas Daniell in 1792, and the ones by James Hunter in 1804, you will realize how the original temple must have looked. It is apparent that at that time, there was direct access to the Mandapa, which was an open hall supported by pillars, and beyond this lay the sanctum inside a cave.
The Sanctum of Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple | Garbagriha of Gavi Gangadhareshwaraswamy Devasthana
Once you step beyond the iron gate into the Mandapa leading to the cave, it is as if suddenly the clock has sprung back and time rewound a few centuries.
A low-ceilinged hall which must have served as the Ranga Mandapa is adorned with pillars that are indicative of the Vijayanagara style of architecture. Beyond the hall, is a door which leads to the cave in which the sanctum of Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple is located. The door is guarded by two dwarapalakas, one on each side.
Deity and Worship at Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple
The cave is less than 6 feet high and further tapers down. In the garbgriha is a monolithic Shiva Linga. The cave itself has been cut into the rock. When you enter into the cave, you can almost feel the positive vibrations, that must have been created by years of meditation and worship. In fact, according to legend the sages Gautama Maharishi, and Bharadwwaja Muni are believed to have done penance inside the cave and are believed to have built the original temple. There is a pradakshina path that circumnavigates the deity and the roof here is so low that one automatically bows down the head in reverence to the deity, as you do your pradakshina around the deity.
Apart from the sanctum for Shiva, there is another smaller sanctum that houses Parvati, the consort of Shiva. There is a pradakshina path around this sanctum as well. Apart from these main deities, there are many other deities in the temple. These deities are Vinayaka or Ganesha, Subramanya, Dakshinamurty which is another form of Shiva, Kala Bhairava, Veerabhadra, Lakshmi Narasimha, Sun and Moon, Ayyappa, Hanuman, Chandikeshwara, Durga, Agni, the Saptamatrikas, the Navagrahas, and Mahaganapati. It is interesting to note the presence of idols of Bharadwaja Muni, and Gautama Maharishi, lending credence to the legend that the temple was built by these sages in the Vedic period.
Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple History
The legends and myths associated with the Sri Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple are many and it is difficult to sort facts from the myths and legends. Legend traces the origin of the Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple to the Vedic period. It is believed that the great sages of the period, Bharadwaja Muni, and Gautama Muni meditated in this cave and built the original temple. However, historically the temple is believed to have been built during the period of the Cholas, who reigned between the 9th and 13th centuries and are known for the grand and elaborate temples they built across southern India. Part of another historic temple, the historic Panchalingeshwara Temple in Begur was also built by the Cholas.
However, the temple was renovated by Kempe Gowda I, in the 16th century. Kempegowda is regarded as the founder of the urban settlement of Bengaluru. He and his descendants built and restored many temples, and water reservoirs including the Kempambudhi Kere or Lake, which is located near the Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple in Gavipuram. Incidentally, the history of Gavipuram is linked with the temple and draws its name from that of the temple. One of the famous watch towers that were built by Kempegowda is also located near the Kempambudhi Lake.
It is believed that Kempegowda who was a local chieftain in Yelahankanadu and a vassal of the Vijayanagara Empire, was inspired by Hampi, the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, to build an urban settlement, Bengaluru. He built and expanded it with the concurrence of the Vijayanagara King. However, he soon demonstrated enough audacity to issue his own currency, which irked Rama Raya, the then, ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire. Kempegowda was punished with imprisonment in Anegundi, the older capital of Vijayanagara. He spent about 5 years incarcerated in Anegundi, before negotiating his own release. After release from captivity, he renovated and rebuilt the Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple.
The historical importance of the temple makes it one of the most important places to visit in Bangalore, and a fascinating aspect of Bengaluru heritage.
Astronomy And Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple
For years the two discs that top two identical pillars standing in the forecourt of the Gavi Gangadhareshara temple had puzzled visitors as well as researchers. These discs locally known as Suryapana and Chandrapana have been an enigma waiting to be decoded.
In December 2008, P.Jayanth Vasanakere, K.Sudeesh, and B.S.Shylaja wrote an article titled, “Astronomical significance of the Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple in Bangalore,” in, “Current Science,” a fortnightly journal of research. They reported their finding based on about three years of research and study of the play of light and shadow at Bengaluru’s famed Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple. Their research has thrown up scientific answers as to the purpose of the mysterious stone discs at Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple.
The researchers combined their meticulous study of the passage of the sun at the Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple in Gavipuram Bangalore, over a period that spanned three years, with complex astronomical calculations. They also referred to historical facts about Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple, particularly a painting of the temple by the British landscape painter, Thomas Daniell, dated 1792. Their findings are summarized here:
- The two mysterious discs at the Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple Karnataka were originally used to mark the two solstices, the edge of the cave allowed light into the cave only on winter solstice and not on January 14
- Later construction, sometime after 1792, included a Mandapa in front of the entrance to the cave temple with walls and windows so designed that they allowed light to reach the cave on 14th January
- So now the discs, arch, windows and the Nandi, are aligned to the rays of the Sun on 1st January and also on 30th November or 1st December
- The two large discs are also aligned to the summer solstice sunset
- The shadow of the bronze pillar or Dhwajasthamba falls on the vertical mark of the disc, though it is unclear whether this was by design or coincidence
The Gavi Gangadhareshwara Devasthana is a testimony to its builders’ genius. Their knowledge of astronomy and how they integrated it with temple architecture is truly astounding. This Ancient Cave Temple Of Gavi Gangadhareshwara in Bangalore is an incredible part of Bangalore’s heritage.
Secrets Of Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple – Cave Temple In Bangalore
Here are some amazing things to know about Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple in Bangalore, that are sure to fascinate you.
- Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple Ghee To Butter – There is a belief that ghee offered to the Shivalinga during Abhishekha worship turns to butter which has healing properties
- Path to Kashi, Shivagange – Inside the cave, there are two paths that are closed, it is believed that the paths led to Shivagange and Kashi respectively
- Within the temple, there is an image of Agnimurthy, the Fire God, and it is believed that worshipping this deity cures problems and defects of the eye
- The most famous of all occurrences is the celestial occurrence on Makara Sankranti, when the sun bathes the Shiva Linga in its glow, this phenomenon that lasts for about 20-30 minutes just before sunset is known as Surya Majjana
Makara Sankranti In Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple Gavipuram, Bangalore
Makara Sankranti is one of the most important events of the festivals and celebrations at Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple. All roads in Bangalore seem to lead to one of the most historic and mysterious temples in South Bangalore, the Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple.
Thousands flock from all corners of the city and beyond to witness the phenomenon termed Surya Majjana at the Gavipuram Cave temple, built by Kempegowda. Special arrangements are made at the temple with temporary tents being set up, and large screens showing live the celestial phenomenon when sunlight passes through the horns of the Nandi to slowly envelop the deity in its golden glow. This magical occurrence is also broadcast live by various television channels.
Maha Shivratri In Gavi Gangadhareshwara Shiva Cave Temple
Maha Shivratri, the night Shiva, is celebrated with great reverence and devotion at the Gavi Gangadhareshara temple, one of the most sacred Shiva temples to visit in Bangalore during Shivratri. Ritualistic worship is conducted at the temple and this includes Mahamrityunjaya Homa, Rudrabhishekam, and reading of Shiva Purana. The temple is open throughout the night, and 4 Kala pujas are performed, every 3 hours, beginning at 6.30 PM, and ending at 6.30 AM.
Timings Of Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple Bangalore | When To Visit Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple | Important Visitor Information
The Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple, one of the most ancient Shiva temples in Bangalore, can be visited anytime throughout the year. Maha Shivratri and Makara Sankranti are two auspicious days for visiting the temple as these are special occasions. However, the temple would be crowded on both these days.
The normal timings of the temple are 6 AM to 11 AM and 5.30 PM to 8.30 PM, however, the timings are not rigid, as we found out during our visit. The sanctum was opened only after 7 AM. So do plan your visit accordingly.
In terms of the dress code for visiting the Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple, dress conservatively and as appropriate for visiting a place of worship.
Photography is prohibited inside the sanctum of the temple, however, you can take pictures in the outer courtyard where the monolithic pillars are located.
Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple Photos
Here are some images of the historic Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple, that convey a sense of its antiquity as well as astronomical and architectural significance.
Where Is Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple – How To Reach Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple In Bangalore
Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple location is in one of the oldest areas of Bangalore, namely Gavipuram in South Bangalore. It is one of the must-visit temples in Bangalore and is a part of most Bangalore walks, and Bangalore city tours. It is also one of the most important attractions that are covered on the Basavanagudi Temple Walk and the Basavanagudi Morning Heritage Walk.
- Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple’s distance from Kempegowda International Airport is about 38 kilometres
- The nearest Metro Station to Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple is National College at a distance of 1.9 km
- Kempegowda International Airport of Bengaluru is at a distance of 38.4 km from the Gavi Gangadhareshwara Devasthana
- The Bangalore city railway station is about 6 km from Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple
- The famous Bull Temple is just 1.2 km from the cave temple of Gavi Gangadhareshwara
Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple – FAQ
Discover answers to the most frequently asked questions about Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple, a historic cave temple in Bangalore renowned for its unique rock-cut architecture and celestial phenomenon.
What is the astronomical significance of the Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple in Bangalore?
The Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple aligns with the winter solstice, allowing sunlight to illuminate the Shiva Linga through precise architectural openings.
What is special about the Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple?
The Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple is renowned for its rock-cut architecture, unique stone discs, and the annual winter solstice sunlight phenomenon.
Which temple turns ghee into butter?
According to local belief ghee which is used for Abhishek of the Shiva Linga turns into butter at the Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple in Bangalore.
What is the architecture of Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple?
The Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple features rock-cut architecture with cave sanctums, massive stone discs, monolithic pillars, and precise alignments for the winter solstice sunlight phenomenon, reflecting ancient engineering brilliance.
Where is Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple?
The Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple is located in Gavipuram, a neighbourhood in Bangalore, Karnataka, India.
Who built the Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple?
The current structure of the Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple in Bengaluru is believed to have been built by Kempe Gowda I.
How old is Shri Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple Gavipuram Bangalore?
The Shri Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple in Gavipuram, Bangalore, is believed to be over 1,000 years old, though it was renovated by Kempe Gowda I in the 16th century.
A visit to the ancient and mysterious Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple of Bengaluru is sure to have a profound effect on you and leave you in a state of bliss. It is a temple which has strong vibrations and if you are spiritually attuned, you will feel the presence of Shiva and experience a state of absolute bliss and ecstasy. Do visit the temple, and share your experience with us. For more thought-provoking and informative content, please subscribe to our blog and monthly newsletter, Travel Bytes. Connect with us on our social media handles and become part of our extended, global family.
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