Banashankari Devi Temple, Bangalore

Karnataka , Bangalore Urban, Bengaluru

Banashankari Amma Temple is one of the most famous temples in Bangalore, not only because of its grandeur but also because of the beliefs surrounding the temple. In 1915 Somanna Shetty, a Goddess Banashankari devotee, brought the deity of Goddess from Badami's Banashankari Amma Temple and established here. The interesting fact about the temple is devotees offer prayers to the Goddess during Rahukala.

Architecture

The temple was built initially in the Dravidian architectural style. The rebuilt structure is in the Vijayanagara architectural style. The temple is enclosed by a high wall on all sides. The main structure has a mukha mantapa, ardha mantapa and a sanctum topped by a Vimana . The main sanctum of the temple has the image of goddess Banashankari deified in it. The black stone sculpture depicts the goddess seated on a lioness trampling a demon under her foot. The goddess has eight arms and holds a trishul, damaru, kapaalpatra, ghanta , Vedic scriptures and khadga-kheta.

Picture courtesy : ThinkBangalore

Darsan Info

Darshan timings on Monday,Wednesday,Thursday and Saturday is from 6.00 AM to 1.00 AM, and from 4.30 PM to 8.00 PM.

Darsan Dresscode

Though there is no particular dress code,devotees are advised to dress appropriately. Traditional wear is preferred on festive days.

Famous Festival

September 13th is celebrated as the birth anniversary of Banashankari Amma. The Dussehra festival during the months of October-November is celebrated with great fanfare.The anniversary of the temple is held during the last week of December or the first week of January (the Pushya masa).