Sri Guru Narasimha Temple – A Gateway to Spiritual Enlightenment in Udupi

 

Sri Guru Narasimha Temple in Saligrama, Udupi, Karnataka, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha, the lion-headed incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The deity, known as Srimad Yogananda Guru Narasimha, is believed to be self-manifested (Swayambhu) and is made entirely of Saligrama stone.

Deities

Main Deity

  • Srimad Yogananda Guru Narasimha – A self-manifested (Swayambhu) deity, made entirely of Saligrama stone.
  • The idol is seated in a yogic posture, holding a Shankha (conch) and Chakra (disc).
  • Worshipped as both a protector and a spiritual guide.

Other Deities in the Temple

  • Sri Anjaneya Swamy – Installed facing Lord Narasimha, symbolizing devotion and strength.
  • Sri Maha Ganapathi – Located in the northwest corner, worshipped for removing obstacles.
  • Shanka Teertha & Chakra Teertha – Sacred ponds believed to purify sins and grant prosperity.

Highlights

Unique Deity & Legends

  • The temple houses Srimad Yogananda Guru Narasimha, a self-manifested (Swayambhu) deity made entirely of Saligrama stone.
  • According to legend, Narada Muni installed the idol after hearing a divine message (Akashavani) about its presence beneath a Peepal tree.

Sacred Teerthas (Holy Ponds)

  • The temple features Shanka Teertha and Chakra Teertha, believed to purify sins and grant prosperity.
  • Devotees take ritual baths in these ponds before entering the temple.

Guru Kshetra & Spiritual Significance

  • The temple is considered a Guru Kshetra, where Lord Narasimha is worshipped as both a protector and a spiritual guide.
  • It is a center for Vedic learning and spiritual enlightenment, attracting seekers of knowledge.

History & Legends

  • The temple is dedicated to Srimad Yogananda Guru Narasimha, a self-manifested (Swayambhu) deity made entirely of Saligrama stone.
  • According to the Padma Purana, the deity appeared beneath a Peepal tree, holding a Shankha (conch) and Chakra (disc). Narada Muni, guided by a divine message (Akashavani), installed the idol.
  • The Sahyadri Khanda of the Skanda Purana mentions that King Lokaditya of the Kadamba Dynasty brought Brahmins to perform Mahayagnas, leading to the reinstallation of the deity.
  • The temple is considered a Guru Kshetra, where Lord Narasimha is worshipped as both a protector and a spiritual guide.

Architecture

  • The deity is seated in a yogic posture, symbolizing meditative energy and divine wisdom.
  • The temple features two sacred ponds—Shanka Teertha and Chakra Teertha, believed to purify sins and grant prosperity.
  • The idol is placed on a Mahaganapati Yantra, signifying harmony and divine protection.
  • The temple follows traditional Dravidian architecture, with intricate carvings and a sanctum facing west.

Daily Rituals

  • Suprabhata Seva – Early morning prayers to wake the deity.
  • Abhisheka – Sacred bath of the deity using milk, honey, ghee, and sandalwood paste.
  • Alankara Pooja – Decoration of the deity with flowers and ornaments.
  • Naivedya Seva – Offering of food to the deity, followed by prasadam distribution.
  • Mangala Aarti – Evening prayers with oil lamps and devotional chants.

Special Sevas & Festivals

  • Narasimha Jayanti – Celebrated with grand abhishekam, homas, and Rathotsava (chariot procession).
  • Deepotsava – Lighting of thousands of lamps, symbolizing divine blessings.
  • Panchamrutha Abhisheka – A special ritual using five sacred substances (milk, curd, honey, ghee, and sugar).
  • Guru Pooja – Honoring Lord Narasimha as the spiritual guide (Guru) of devotees.

Getting Here

By Air

  • The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, about 60 km from Saligrama.
  • From the airport, you can take prepaid taxis or buses to reach the temple.

By Train

  • The closest railway station is Udupi Railway Station, around 23 km from the temple.
  • Trains from major cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Chennai connect to Udupi.
  • Auto-rickshaws and taxis are available from the station to the temple.

By Road

  • The temple is located on NH66, about 23 km north of Udupi.
  • Buses and private taxis frequently operate from Udupi and Mangalore.
  • If driving from Udupi, take NH66 towards Saligrama.

Here are some essential tips for visiting Sri Guru Narasimha Temple in Saligrama, Udupi, along with nearby accommodation options:

Tips

Early mornings and evenings are ideal for peaceful darshan.

Narasimha Jayanti and Rathotsava are grand celebrations, attracting large crowds.

Wear traditional attire; men should avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts, and women should wear modest clothing.

Photography may be restricted, so check before taking pictures.

Participate in daily poojas, including Suprabhata Seva, Abhisheka, and Mangala Aarti.

Devotees offer boondi, sindoor, and ghee, symbols of purity and strength.

Sandhya Aarti (evening prayer) is a mesmerizing ritual with oil lamps and chants.

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