Report and pics from Ron Bantwal
for Daijiworld Media Network – Bantwal (RD/AF)
Mumbai, Feb 21: The mobilization of funds for the reconstruction of fourteenth century Sri Panchalingeshwar Temple near Vittal in Bantwal taluk has begun while the work has picked up momentum. The temple had been a significant centre of worship for all the residents of the sixteen neighbouring villages.
The temple has a history of seven centuries while the written documents convey that the restoration of the temple had been undertaken thrice from 1436 to 1894. There was a proposal to reconstruct the temple of three divided roofs according to Vastu without changing the existing pattern. The entire temple lies in a dilapidated condition.
Dr Veerendra Heggade, Dharmadikari of Shree Kshetra Dharmasthala has been leading the reconstruction committee to rebuild the temple at a cost of Rs 7 crore. Vittal Sri Panchalingeshwar Temple reconstruction committee, Mumbai which was set up under the direction of Dr D Veerendra Heggade, had embarked on funds mobilization drive from native Kannadigas and Tuluvas settled in the metro and all over Maharashtra.
A master plan to reconstruct Sri Panchalingeshwar Temple, Vittal based on Vastu with a blend of art both from Hinduism and Buddhism was presented at the meeting of native Kannadiga and Tuluvas which was held at Bunts Bhavan, Kurla. The meeting was presided over by Kusumodhar Shetty, renowned entrepreneur, social worker and secretary of Bunts Sangha.
The funds came pouring from all corners of native Kannadigas' and Tuluvas settled across Maharashtra. Accordingly, K D Shetty presented Rs 25 lac to Sri Guru Devanand Swamiji of Odiyoor Math and Sri Mohandas Swamiji of Manila Math, in this regard.
The religious rite of installing the idol of Sri Ganapati at the sanctum sanctorum will be held on 'Vishu Sankramana' at the temple. Besides, donors who have contributed generously towards the reconstruction of temple during 'Brahmakalashotsav' will be honoured in the presence of Dr D Veerendra Heggade. K D Shetty, president of Mumbai committee conveyed his gratitude towards the generous contributions made by fellow Mumbaikars.