Daijiworld Media Network – Kaup (TP)

Kaup, Feb 24: The renovated historic Kaup Sri Hosa Marigudi Temple consecration will be held with grand religious and cultural festivity from Feb 25 to March 5.

The renovation of the temple is not just a feat of architectural brilliance but also a testament to the immense skill of craftsmen and the devotion of the community. This transformation, which has been in the making for several months, has resulted in a temple that is a perfect blend of tradition and modern craftsmanship.

The temple’s new features are particularly significant, with intricate wooden carvings, artistic designs, golden roofing, and the stunning Swarna Gadduge (place where Mariamma will be situated), which has become a focal point of attraction for devotees and visitors alike.

The temple, which has undergone extensive restoration at a cost of approximately Rs 30 crore, now showcases exceptional craftsmanship, especially in the woodwork and intricate carvings. From the main entrance to the sanctum sanctorum, the temple’s renovation highlights the artistic brilliance of local artisans and the deep-rooted faith of the people.

The wooden carvings, which are spread across various sections of the temple, reflect the culture, devotion, and history of the region. These include delicate representations of deities, animals, and floral patterns that contribute to the temple’s visual appeal.

The highlight of the renovation is the meticulous wood carving work that has been integrated into every corner of the temple, starting from the main gate, the circumambulation path, and the sanctum sanctorum. The 14 corner coverings on the roof, as well as the six intricately designed doors, are entirely made from wood, showcasing the perfect fusion of tradition with modern design.

For the construction of the Mariamma shrine roofing, jackfruit wood was used, while the circumambulation path and the surrounding paths were made using Kiral bogi and Hebbalasu wood. These woods are significant in local traditions and beliefs, adding an authentic touch to the temple.

The central pieces of the temple are the 14 corner coverings on the roof, each of which is unique in design. These corner coverings symbolize the rich history and traditions of the region.

The main entrance's roof has been adorned with beautiful carvings depicting the Ashtadikpalakas, with Brahma as the central figure. This artistic choice holds deep meaning in the temple's religious context. The Ashtadikpalakas, revered as symbols of cosmic harmony, are integral to the temple's design, representing the belief that the universe is in balance and that divine entities play a crucial role in maintaining that balance.

The Ucchangi shrine and the Mariamma shrine also feature wood carvings of lions, flowers, vines, and ornamental creepers, symbolizing strength, beauty, and fertility. In particular, the carving work around the northern entrance, which features 81 columns, has garnered attention for its scale and complexity. The columns are meticulously arranged to form an intricate pattern, with each column representing the spiritual strength of the temple.

The Swarna Gadduge stands as the most stunning feature of the newly renovated Kaup Sri Hosa Marigudi Temple. The roofing, crafted at a staggering cost of Rs 15 crore, is made from 15 kg of gold and 175 kg of silver. It was created by the renowned Udupi Gujjadi Golden Jewelers, adding a new level of grandeur to the temple. The design is inspired by the shape of a lion, incorporating precious gemstones to enhance its beauty. The 50-carat ruby at the pinnacle, accompanied by a 60-carat South African green stone, elevates the overall magnificence of the structure.

The Swarna Gadduge, where Mariamma is installed, is a powerful symbol of the temple's devotion to both Mariamma and the surrounding community. Crafted by expert artisans over a span of 120 days, it will be installed using the Shat Chakra method, a traditional ritualistic process that further adds to its spiritual significance.

The temple has 118 pillars, each with its own uniqueness. The four huge pillars inside the stone sanctum sanctorum are made of Ilakal stone. The pillars are carved by a team led by Yelluru Vishnumoorthy Bhat in the Hoysala style.

A bell weighing 1,500 kg, modeled after the bell of Ayodhya, is being installed in the temple. This is the second-largest bell in the country. The bell, donated by Mumbai Alliance Infrastructure and Realtors Private Limited's Aravind Shetty and Pallavi Shetty, will be placed to the left of the shrine. It is 5 feet tall and 4 feet wide, and its vibrations will be heard from a long distance.

The golden face of Mariamma is being donated by devotees and advocate Mahesh Kotian as seva. Ucchangi Devi Hosa Marigudi Temple development committee president and Deviprasad Constructions Private Limited Company director K Vasudeva Shetty and Bhina Vasudeva Shetty have also donated the golden face. Kaup Dandathirtha Institution’s convener Dr Prashanth Shetty has donated a golden waist belt.

The silver chariot, made of 130 kg silver and weighing 1,500 kg, is 11.50 feet tall and 4.5 feet wide. Built in the Mysore style with a tower-like design, it is adorned with carvings of wheels, doors, and door-keepers. A silver shield and covering are attached to the structure, modeled after a jackfruit tree. The chariot features eight lions and four elephants on its sides. It was built by 11 skilled craftsmen in 60 days.

The renovation of the Kaup Sri Hosa Marigudi Temple was made possible through the dedication and generosity of the local community. Devotees contributed both financially and physically, ensuring that the temple’s restoration was completed with the utmost care and reverence. The Swarna Gadduge, a major highlight of the renovation, was funded by the devotees themselves, symbolizing their deep faith and connection to the temple.

The newly renovated temple stands as a testament to the power of faith, craftsmanship, and community spirit. With its stunning wood carvings, Swarna Gadduge, and other features, the temple is not just a religious space but also a cultural landmark. The renovation project has restored the temple’s grandeur while reviving the deep-rooted spiritual practices that have been part of it for generations.

Brahmakalashotsava from February 25 to March 5

Dr K Prakash Shetty, president of the Brahmakalashotsava committee and Kaup Sri Hosa Marigudi Temple development committee, addressing a press meet on February 24, said, “The Brahmakalashotsava will be held from February 25 to March 5. After the religious rituals in the morning, devi prasadam will be served to devotees all day, and formal and cultural programs will be held in the evening.”

On February 25, Sahasrakumbha Abhisheka will be performed at the new Sri Marigudi Temple, Kaup, under the guidance of Vedamurthy K G Raghavendra Tantri, followed by Ugrana Muhurtha, Pakashala Ugrana Muhurtha, and various other religious rituals.

On March 2, prathishtapana of Mariamma Devi along with Mahaswarna Peetha and Ucchangi Devi along with Swarna Peetha will be held.

On March 4, the Ucchangi consecration will be held at 8 am, followed by various other religious rituals.

On March 5, the last day of the religious festivity, the consecration of Kaup Sri Mariamma will be held at 8 am, followed by Maha Pooja and other religious rituals.

Various cultural events will be held in the evening from February 25 to March 5 from 4 pm. Political leaders will take part in the formal event starting at 6 pm every evening. As a star attraction, renowned singers Vijay Prakash will perform on March 4 from 8 pm, and Raghu Dixit will perform on March 5 from 8 pm onwards.

The press conference was attended by K Vasudev Shetty, MLA and working president Gurme Suresh Shetty, working president of the Brahmakalashotsava committee Uday Sundar Shetty, Jaya C Kotian, Bhaskar M Salian, Bhagwan Das Shettigar, Yogish V Shetty Balaji, general secretary Suhas Hegde Nandalike, joint secretary Arun Shetty Padoor, treasurer CA Sudesh Rai, and others.