Malenaadu

Hanagerekatte

2011-01-25T02:22:00.001-08:00

EVEN AS communal hatred is taking its toll threatening to destroy the fragile social fabric of society more often than not, there are certain places which stand as testimony to the country’s rich history of communal peace and harmony. Hazrath Syed Sadath Dargah and Bhootaraya-Chowdamma Shrine at Hanagerekatte in Tirthahalli taluk in Shimoga district is one of them. Situated about 38 km from Shimoga city, the dargah-shrine complex is housed amid serene environs of the Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a pure Hindu-Muslim communal harmony shrine. Hindu deities, Bhootaraya and Goddess Chowdamma, are installed inside the dargah. The shrine was set up 250 years ago by the ancestors of Jaffer Mohiuddin Sab. In 1939, Mohiuddin become the head of the shrine. His son, Syed Khaari Saheb, succeeded him in 1965. Since 1992, Saheb’s three sons, Syed Noor Sab, Syed Isac Sab and Syed Pasha, are looking after the dargah. The shrines of Bhootaraya and Goddess Chowdamma on other side are managed by the officials of the Muzrai Department. An interesting fact is that devotees who are suffering from family disputes or court cases tie locks to a big tree inside the dargah. One may be wonderstruck by the sight of the thousands of locks hanging on the trees. According to Haji Syed Noor Sab Muzavar, the sacred dargah is a living example of communal harmony. Devotees coming to the shrine first offer prayers to Bhootaraya and Chowdamma by breaking coconuts and going through rituals. Then they go to the dargah to offer prayers, he said. Another interesting feature is that the devotees after sacrificing animals for fulfilment of their vows, prepare their food inside the complex. They can avail themselves of utensils from the shrine authorities to prepare the food. Accommodation is provided for devotees coming from far off places. Devotees throng this shrine in large numbers during weekends and holidays. Thousands of devotees witness the annual “sandal urs” held in March. Mr. Syed Noor says that the authorities concerned or elected representatives should take the initiative in providing basic amenities such as drinking water and ensuring cleanliness in the complex.

mrugavadhe

2011-01-25T02:15:00.001-08:00

Another legend related to the times of Ramayana, indicates that Maricha, a relative of the Lanka king Ravana came in the disguise of a golden deer to enchant Sita, the wife of Rama. When Sita requested Rama to get her the deer, Rama followed the deer

BHEEMANAKATTE MATHA

2011-01-25T02:05:00.001-08:00

Introduction:
The river Tunga flows across the green forest land and mountains of Theerthahalli, a place of pilgrimage and natural beauty, and there is ‘Bheemanakatte’, a small village but a big name for its sanctity. Bheemanakatte, as the name embellishments from Madhwas, the followers of Madhwacharya, was named after the incident happened during Dwapara, when Bheema, Madhyama pandava, built a dam to the river Tunga overnight to stop the outflow of water, as local history says. Incidentally, Bheemanakatte is the place where Sri Achyuta Preksha had built his Ashrama, who gave Sanyasa Deeksha to Sri Madhwacharya, the founder of Dwaitha Philosophy.
Background: During the period of Janamejaya Raya who was the last noted inheritor of Pandavas, had to make "Theerthayathra" to overcome the accumulated sins suffered by him due to his killing of snakes by performing "Sarpayaga". On his way to Rameshwaram he had visited this place, when Sri Kaivalyanatha Theertha was looking after the Ashrama on the bank of the river Tunga, nearby Bheemanakatte. Sri Kaivalyanatha Theertha comes in the parampara of Maharshi Doorwasa who lived during the period of Pandavas. There is "Shasana" (Inscription) describing about handing over of this place to Sri Kaivalyanatha Theertha by Sri Janamejayaraya to make use of this place by performing regular worship of the God Sri Ramachandra and also to perform regular religious functions.
Madhwa Parampara :
After taking Sanyasa Deeksha from Sri Achyuta Preksha, Sri Madhwacharya has established Dwaitha Philosophy, condemning ‘Mayavada’, the ‘Philosophy of myth. Bheemana Katte Matha is the moola matha of Madhwas since Sri Achyuta Preksha who also named him as Poorna Prajna has given Sri Madhwacharya, the sanyasa deeksha.
Location:
Bheemana Katte is located on the bank of the river Tunga in the Talluk of Theerthahalli of Shimoga Dist. It is in the State of Karnataka of India. One can reach to this place from the highway between Theerthahalli and Agumbe. Bheemana Katte matha once established with hundreds acres of land with coconut and banana trees grown around, now only has two acres of land left out, after the introduction of Land Tenancy Act of the Government. The square-shaped matha consists of a Pooja Mandira in the middle, where idols of the God Sri Ramachandra, Lakshmi Narasimha, Vittala, Hayagriva (given by his highness Sri Vadiraja of Sonda), are being worshipped. Also there are idols of Sri Prana Devaru and Bhootharaja, being worshipped. His Highness Sri Raghumanya Thirtha, Peetadhipathi is the back bone of this Matha.
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Sri Raghumanya Thirtha:
After taking Sanyasa Deeksha on 10.06.1974, from Sri Raghu Thilaka, Sri Raghumanya Thirtha, a disable of this parampara went to Manthralaya, to study Shastra-Grantha and did Sudha-Mangala under the guidance of Sri Ranganatha Acharya. He has stayed there in Manthralaya for eight years and has worshipped Sri Raghavendra swamy, and gained "Tapah-shakti". He has already completed twenty-two ‘Chaturmasa Vratham’. He has a unique nature of mingling with all devotees of God Sri Ramachandra, creating awareness of Madhwa-Shastra and Vichara. Especially, he attracts younger generation by inviting them to participate in Cultural and religious programmes of matha at Bheemana katte. Sri Swamiji is a great Tapaswi and he extends all help to those who goes to him with their materialistic problems. His regular worship of Sri Vadiraja and Manthralaya Guru Sri Raghavendra has earned him a great Tapah-shakthi, and his devotees are its beneficiaries.
Present Status of Matha : After the implementation of Land Tenancy Act of the Government, the matha is struggling hard for its revenues with just two acres of land available for its development. The devotees are the real asset of the Matha. The Swamiji has tremendous plans in his mind to develop the Matha and thus creating awareness of Madhwa-shastra all over. To implement this, certainly a lot of support is required to strengthen his plans. Now is the time for all devotees to extend their support and help in the existence of this paramapara for our future generation.
Current Plans of Swamiji :
1. To collect deposits and donations for day-to-day seva, functions of matha.
2. To establish Shri Raghumana Theertha Education Fund for the welfare
of poor students.
3. To establish a Co-Operative Society.
4. To establish centres for Sanskirt-Veda study in all Districts of Karnataka State.
5. To establish an organization to popularize Madhwa Philosophy
6. To establish a centre for guidance to youth for self-dependence.
7. To make awareness with people to adopt simplicity in performing all
ritual functions like Marriage, Upanayanam, etc.,
8. To establish health centres for the village poor people.

Bunts community

2010-04-05T05:12:00.000-07:00

The Bunts (Tulu: ಬಂಟರ, Kannada: ಬಂತವರು, Malayalam: ബന്ടര്), are a largely Tulu speaking Hindu community of erstwhile nobility, feudals and gentry from the region of Tulu Nadu in the south west of India which comprises the districts of Udupi and Mangalore in the Indian state of Karnataka and Kasaragod taluk of Kerala. According to the system of Varna Bunts belong to the Nagavanshi (Serpent Lineage) order of Kshatriyas (Warriors). Bunts traditionally follow the matrilineal system of descent and kinship like their related communities of Samanta Kshatriya, Tulu Jains and Nairs.
The First mention of Bunts in Tulu Nadu is from a 9 century C.E. inscription where the Bunt warriors of Chokipali near Udupi[2] are described along with the Shivalli Brahmins. Historian Edgar Thurston describes the Bunts as follows:[3] “Men and women of the Bunt community belong to a beautiful race of asia. Men have a broad forehead and a parrot nose. Mostly they are of fair complexion. Even today they are of independent nature, short tempered, self respected and have muscular body, which tells about the history of belonging to warrior families”. As a warrior class, the Bunts, attained their greatest glory during the rule of Vijayanagara Emperors belonging to the Tuluva Dynasty which was founded by a chieftain Bunt called Tuluva Narasa Nayaka.[4][5][6] After the fall of the dynasty the Bunts again concentrated themselves in Tulu Nadu where they took to large scale agriculture in the vast area of land they still possessed and also served as administrators and warriors in the various minor Hindu and Jain kingdoms that controlled various parts of the region from time to time. The Alupa rulers of coastal karnataka were Bunts[7] and according to one of the various theories regarding the origin of Kadamba Kings, they are connected to the Bunts since one inscription states the kadambas belonging to the Nāga or the serpent lineage[8] to which Bunts also belong and many Bunt families hold the surnames of Kadamba and Varma[9][10] which were the titles of the Kadambas.
Since the beginning of the 20 the century Bunts slowly gave up on their above stated traditional occupation and positions and today are mostly involved into entrepreneurial activities as well in the hospitality industry and banking sector.

Etymology

The word Bunt is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Bhata' meaning powerful man or a soldier, the Tulu equivalent is 'Bunte' or 'Bunter' (plural) which means protector.

Bunts are also referred to as 'Nayaka', 'Shetray' and 'Nādava' which means leader, nobility and landlord respectively in Tulu. The word 'Shetray' anglicised as Shetty is the most common of all Bunt surnames followed by Rai. In fact in certain parts where the community has migrated like Mumbai, the community is simply referred to as the Shettys.

Languages

Bunts are highly multilingual and are generally well versed in languages other than their mother tongues of Tulu and Kundagannada (a dialect of Kannada or Kanarese highly influenced by Tulu). Tulu is the mother tongue of majority of Bunts who originally inhabit or hail from Kasaragod uptil Brahmavara (north of Udupi city). Bunts inKundapura taluk (north of Brahmavara) speak Kundagannada as their mother tongue. Tulu speaking Bunts are called Tuluva Bunts and Kundagannada speaking ones are called 'Nādava' or 'Nada Bunts'. Tuluva Bunts generally call Nada Bunts as 'Badakaydagul' which translates into "our people in the north". There is also term called 'Thenkaydagul' which refers to Bunts who live south of the Payaswini river in Kerala. Is it a reference to the Samantha Kshatriyas or Nairs is unknown since there is traditionally no Bunt presence south of Payaswini.

Connection with Nairs of Kerala

The 17th century Brahmin -inspired Keralolpathi of the Malayali brahmins and the Grama Padhati of Tulu brahmins describes the Nairs of Kerala and the similarly matrilineal Bunts of Tulu Nadu as descendants of Kshatriyas who accompanied the Brahmins to Kerala and Tulu Nadu respectively from Ahichatra/Ahikshetra in northern Panchala.^[11].the remains of this city have been found in Ramnagar village in Aonla tehsil of Bareilly district in current Indian state of Uttar Pradesh^[12]

The Manual of Madras Administration Vol II (printed in 1885) notes that the Nadavas are the same people as the Nairs of Malabar and the Bunts of southern Tulu Nadu:

“ They appear to have entered Malabar from the North rather than the South and to have peopled first the Tulu, and then the Malayalam country. They were probably the off-shoot of some colony in the Konkan or the Deccan. In Malabar and south of Kanara as far as Kasargod, they are called Nayars and their language is Malayalam. From Kasargod to Brahmavar, they are termed as Bunts and speak Tulu. To the north of Brahmavar, they are called Nadavars, and they speak Kanarese. ”

The Nairs have disappeared as an entity from Tulu Nadu but the inscriptions found in Barkur from the medieval period as well as the Grama Padathi, which gives the history of Brahmin families in Tulu Nadu, have made several references to the Nairs. They seemed to have intimate connections with the Brahmins and acted as their protectors, perhaps brought to Tulu Nadu by the Kadamba kings in the 8th century. Kadamba king Mayuravarma, who is credited with bringing Brahmins from Ahichatra (from the north), also settled Nairs in Tulu Nadu. Yet, there is no written proof for this occurrence and the only mention of the Nairs in the inscriptions comes after the Alupa period (early part of 14th century). Like some of the kings of Malabar some South Kanara princes also have Nair ancestry. For example, the last ruler of Kanajar in Karkala Taluk was a Nayar Hegde. The royal house in Kowdoor (adjacent to Kanajar) is known as "Naayara bettu" which still exists. Also "Nayara" is one of the Bunts surname. It is postulated that the Nairs in Tulu Nadu were later absorbed into the social stratum of the Bunt/Nadava community. It is also postulated that the Nayars of Malabar originally migrated from the Tulu nadu^[2]

It is to be noted that the traditions and cultures of Nairs and Bunts are same to a large extent. Currently the Nairs who can trace their descent back to Tulunadu are concentrated in the Malabar region.^[13]

Religion

Bunts are orthodox Hindus who primarily worship Adi Shakti and can be termed as Shaktas, but Bunts are not exclusive Adi Shakti worshippers, they worship all gods of the Hindu pantheon including Shiva and Vishnu as aspects of the divine mother Adi Shakti. Other favoured deities of the Bunts include Ganesh, Subrahmanya, Krishna and Mariamma. Bunts believe that all gods of the Hindu pantheon are nothing but various aspects of Adi Shakti. In her spiritual form Adi Shakti is attributeless and is sometimes referred to as Ullaya or Ullaldi in Tulu and Parambrahma in Sanskritised Tulu which means impersonal god, Bunts therefore are monotheistic but at the same time worship all gods of the Hindu pantheon without any difference. Bunts believe that the way to moksha or liberation is through bhakti of any aspect of the divine mother. They are therefore followers of Vedanta philosophy, therefore throughout Tulu Nadu there are numerous temples dedicated to various Hindu gods patronised by Bunts. Also believed is that the first temple to be build in Tulu Nadu was that of Adi Shakti inKunjarugiri near Udupi by Lord Parshurama, the sixth incarnation of Vishnu and a great Shiva devotee. Parshurama is credited to have created Tulu Nadu which is part of Parashurama Kshetra or Kerala, mentioned in the Puranas by reclaiming land from the sea god Varuna by throwing his divine axe or parashu, hence Tulu Nadu is also referred to in the Puranas as Parashurama Shrishti, "The world created by Par[a]shuram".

Nagaradhane

Bunts greatly revere the serpents, specifically the cobras, which are considered to be sacred creatures and embodiment of serpent deities. Naga Dever (serpent gods) are usually worshipped in sacred groves called 'nagabana' which are usually situauted adjacent to traditional Bunt homes called Guthu da ill. Nagabana shrines contain serpent images carved on pieces of stones. There are many serpent idols in a shrines owing to the belief that there are lakhs of sepent gods likeAnanta, Vasuki, Thakshak and Karkotaka, which are mentioned in the Puranas. The main serpent deity of the Bunts isNagaraja Vasuki who is considered the king of all serpents. The elaborate rituals of serpent worship that is practised in both Tulu Nadu and Kerala began with the advent of Bunts and Nairs in these regions. A paddana, an oral legend in Tulu, mentions Bunts as Kshatriyas (warriors) of Nagavamsha (serpent dynasty), the original Nagaradhakas (serpent worshippers) who migrated from the serpent kingdom of Achichatra Madastana in the north to Tulu Nadu. Serpent worship rituals observed by Bunts is of three types: Naga Tanu and Ashlesha Bali rituals done under the priesthood of Shivalli Brahmins and organisation of rituals dances of Nagamandala, which involves two ritual dancers. One from the Nagapatri subcaste of Shivalli Brahmins and the other dancer who belongs to a small community of ritual dancers called Bolli Pambadas. The pomp and grandeur with which Bunts observe these rituals can only be matched by the Sarpam Thullal of Kerala.

Daivaradhane

What is unique to all communities in Tulu nadu which includes the Bunts as well is their reverence of various spirits which are of both puranic and local origins, in addition to the established gods of Hinduism. Daivas or bhutas as they are referred to do not have a set form of physical representation. Symbolically a piece of rock is sanctified and considered as Daiva/Bhuta. Figurines made of wood or metal, are also used as symbols of Daiva/Bhuta, Planks of wood or stone pillars with a niche and a conical or a flat stone on its top also are symbols of the spirit. Some of the stronger spirits have more elaborate stone pillars and may even have temple-like permanent abodes called Daiva Saana or Boota Atte. These shrines can be both elaborate or simple. simple structures are usually with single cells with projecting thatched roofs. Elaborate ones resemble temples built according to the Dravidian style of temple architecture. Both elaborate or simple Spirit shrines are built according to the guidelines of Vastu Shastra. A number of weapons, made of metal, are kept in the Daiva Sanaas. Some of the more revered Daiva/Bhuta have ornaments made from oblations of devotees. These ornaments (called abharana) are displayed during the yearly festival called Bhuta Kola or Dharma Da Nema, when the spirits are propitiated by the devotees. Ritual Dancers belonging to the Pambada ,Nalike or some other castes adorn make-up and dance to the tune of recitations called Paddanas. These songs tell the story of the particular spirit and its relationship with the people that it protects. Each Daiva/Bhuta has its own unique costume and style of make-up. The Ritualdancer dances away at night to the beat of drums and other musical instruments Called Panchavadyam, Some time later the Ritualdancer goes into a trance and is overwhelmed by the spirit's power.At this time He makes predictions or suggests solutions to the devotees problems. The Bunts and other communities of Tulu Nadu seek protection from these good natured spirits. These spirits are classified as belonging to the whole village, or to a particular community or caste, or of a family. Some spirits are favored by certain communities, e.g. Bobbariya has a special place in the heart of the mogaveeracommunity of Tulu Nadu. Jumadi,Jarandaya,Pilichamundi are considered as kingly spirit and are worshipped by many Bunt families as their family deity. Some of them spirits are of puranic origin e.g. Vishnumurti , Brahmer,virabhadra who are identified with Vishnu, nagabrahma and Virabhadra of the Puranas .Others are spirits of departed souls who were prominent figures in the community and had done good deeds while they were alive and attained moksha. e.g. Annappa Panjurli,Jarandaya etc. Yet some are of Totemic origins who are considered as lord Shivas, attendants or ganas like Pili-chamundi (Tiger), Nadigone (Bull), Mula Mysondaya (Buffalo) etc. There are hundreds of spirits named in Tulu nadu.Worship of the Daivas/Bhuta gives Tulu Nadu a distinct flavor. It is thought that before bhakti Hinduism was introduced to the region, the spirits were the Protector deities worshipped by the local people. Shaktism and shaivism were the main religious branches of Hinduism and since spirits are naturally associated with Shiva who is called Bhutha natha (Lord of the divine spirits). With the advent of Vaishnavism, the spirits attained a secondary role to the numerous other gods of Hindu pantheon. Yet, these spirits did not lose their place in the history of Tulu nadu, as they are worshipped even today with great reverence. Vaishnava Shivalli Brahmins, accepted the spirit's divinity and facilitated their worship in Tulu nadu. It is not uncommon to see the yearly ceremonies for the spirits conducted in the households of Bunt landlords, attended by the local village people including the vaishnava brahmins who seek the blessings of these spirits. The shivalli brahmins also worship these spirits as their family deities.Similar rituals called Theyyam are practiced by Malayalis in North Kerala.

Bunts also revere a Avadhuta called Bhagawan Nityananda.His origins are very sketchy,as he rarely spoke and spent most of his time in meditation,but he had great following among the Bunts in particular. He Lived Between 1897 - 1961 and travelled through much of southern India. He initiated many Bunts into the sanyasi order of life

The Bunts also follow a custom similar to Onam festivities of Kerala by welcoming Mahabali a pious Hindu king who was born among asuras in their homes and honour his great devotion to lord Vishnu on bali pratipada during Diwali. It is considered on this day Mahabali attained moksha

Cuisine and culinary habits

Bunts form one of the major tulu speaking communities of Coastal Karnataka. Their cuisine draws inspiration from the local produce and fruits found in this region .Rice is used imaginatively to create a vast rage of delicacies. The all time Bunt favorite is the chicken curry called kori gasee. Jackfruit, Banana, Mango etc., are used in various forms to prepare a wide variety of detectable dishes ranging from Kundapur to Kasargod, the Bunt cuisine contains many variations in use of ingredients and methods of preparation. This has only enhanced the distinctive flavors of each region and lent freshness to the culinary marvels of the community

The cuisine of Bunts is famous all over India especially in and around Mumbai where the community owns a number of famous hotels and restaurants . Bunts specialise both in vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Among non-vegetarian dishes, Kori Rotti, Neer dosa,and Kane Gasee are well known. Vegetarian dishes include Gullāa Chutney and Pāthrode.

Traditional pastimes

Bunts have always had a penchant for rural sports especially Kambala- water buffalo racing.In ancient times Bunt kings used to organise Arasa kambala where people would compete for a huge price money in offer.Nowadays kambala are organised by associations run by Bunts.

Another passion of Bunts is Yakshagana,a form of theatrical opera similar toKathakali of Kerala.Stories from the Hindu mythology are usually depicted in them.A popular yakshagana play among the bunts is based on the Devi Mahatmyam.

Kori - katta a form of Cock fighting which is banned by the government of India due to pressure of animal activists was something which Bunts loved to organise.

Traditional Homes

Traditionally Bunts lived in a joint family system wherein generation of maternally related relatives lived in a large single bungalow .This system called Manetana is similar to the Tharavadu system of the Nairs.These Bunt Bungalows Are locally known as Guthu da ill or Beedu Mane which translates into house of prestige.Royal Palaces among the Bunts were called ArasaMane .Since Bunts were landlords or small feudatories,the location of the house was generally at the centre of the Landholdings each Bunt family collectively held.The head of each household was the eldest male member known as Yejamanaye.Situated amid picturesque surroundings of paddy fields,coconut and areca gardens,Bunt homes generally followed a distinct pattern of architecture taking into account the guidelines of theVastushilpa-The traditional Hindu system of architecture.These houses have an entrance through a large door called the Hebba Bakil .The Hebbakil generally made of teak wood had intricate carvings on them.The hebbakil gives way to an open yard called the Angala.Angala is walled on all the four sides and the walls are generally carved.Following the angala is the Chawadi or the Main courtyard where the Landlord met his tenants or solved matters pertaining to village disputes etc.The chawadi is decorated with wodden pillars called Khamb which are carved which images from Hindu mythology etc.Chawadi had to be elaborately decorated,the more the decoration of a chawadi,that much affluent a particular household was considered.Inside the Chawadi is the Nadu mane or the middle portion of the house,which was used only by the members of the house and entry to it was restricted to non Bunts. Some houses have a small well created in the nadu mane for use of family members.Besides the Nadu mane a separate room is reserved for Daily worship called Devarakonaye.Apart from this there is another room Called gundakonaye where paraphernalia related to rituals of nagaradhane or bhuta kola was kept.Sometimes even the jewels belonging to the main Hindu temple of the village were kept here.These jewels belonging to the village deities were displayed only once in year during the annual temple festival called Ayana.Besides these there are several other rooms used for storing agriculture produce as well as bedrooms etc.Kitchen called adpil was located in the south east.A little distance from the house is the sacred grove called Naga Bana which are basically serpent shrines.The serpent shrines generally consisted of many stones on which Serpent images were carved.special Pujas as held at these shrines every month on sankranti.Other rituals of Nagaradhane are also performed but they do not follow a distinct time pattern.Further away from the nagabana is the Daivasaana (temple of the spirit deities).Annual ritual dances of the Bhuta Kola are held at these shrines.Such traditional Bunt houses can still be seen across the Tulu region.One of the well preserved Houses called Kodial Guthu stands majestically at the centre of Mangalorecity.^[14] Some other well preserved of these houses that display traditional architecture can be seen at Kolnadguthu near Mulki,.Nayarabettu near kowdoora and Kodethuru Guthu near Kateel.Royal houses of the Bunts called Arasamane can be seen at Kutyar and Mulki. '

Matrilineal inheritance - Aliya Santana Kattu

Most communities in the Tulu nadu follow a system of matrilineal inheritance to family property, in which succession is followed along the female line i.e. succession does not take place from father to son but from uncle to nephew (one's sister's son). Called aliya santana, it is similar to marumakkatayam that is followed in certain class of people in Kerala namely the nairs. It is a law that has been followed by predominantly the Bunt community and the Tulu Jains. It is well established that the rulers of the feudatory states (like the Chautas, Bangas, Savantas, Ajilas, and Tolahas), followed the aliya santana system of inheritance. There is also evidence that the Alupas, before the rise of the Vijayanagara Empire, followed the system of matrilineality.

The law was recognized by the modern courts as far back as the British India in 1843. The rules of aliya santana were first published as the English translation in 1864, by the German Press Mission in Mangalore (printed in Madras Journal of Literature and Science).

The aliya santana commandments were decreed by a legendary figure of unknown antiquity, Bhutala Pandya (77 A.D.?). His uncle named Deva Pandya was the ruler, when certain important cargo with a newly built naval fleet was set out to sea. King of the demons, Kundodara, demanded sacrifice of the king's son if he wanted any protection of the valuable cargo that was sea bound. The king's wife refused to part with any of her seven sons, and Deva Pandya was distraught. The king's sister Satyavati, finding her brother lonely and dejected, offered her own son Jaya Pandya for the sacrifice. The demon Kundodara was impressed with this sacrifice. He not only spared the young boy's life but also bestowed upon him the kingdom of Jaya Pandya's father Veerapandya in the city called Jayantika. The demon also gave the name Bhutala Pandya on the brave young man and sat him on a throne.

Later another similar demand was made by the demon, when Deva Pandya's ships had run aground in Kalyanapura. In order to slake the demon's thirst for human sacrifice, the king made another request from his wife to spare one of their sons. But his wife refused to comply again and publicly renounced all inheritance of the kingdom for her own sons and left the kingdom to live with her parents. Bhutala Pandya was summoned by the people, who wisely propitiated the demon Kundodara as Mahishasura, and built him a permanent abode in Someshwara. Kundodara then demanded of Deva Pandya that he should disinherit all his sons and name his nephew Bhutala Pandya as the successor.

Bhutala Pandya ruled for a period of seventy-five years in peace and his subjects were prosperous. He had twelve wives with whom he had many children, both boys and girls. He commanded all his subjects to follow his uncle's example of the matrilineal system of aliya santana, and the laws of inheritance were written, as dictated by the demon Kundodara. Subsequently, his nephew Vidyadyumna Pandya came to power and the aliya santana system is said to have been followed ever since. Bhutala Pandya's progeny through aliya santana ruled for seven generations for a total of 259 years.

Of course, there are no historical records of the authenticity of the story of Bhutala Pandya. The first epigraph referring to the system of aliya santana is from the 10th century, suggesting that the system was followed at that time, when a passing reference was made in one of the inscriptions. Following this, several epigraphic inscriptions of later centuries refer to the system routinely and the practice was undoubtedly very prevalent. There is ample evidence to suggest that aliya santana was followed by large segments of the population between the 12th and 16th centuries in Tulu nadu.

Bari, Guttu and Kattales

Bari represents the matrilineal lineage of communities in Tulu nadu. Bari is the Tuluva counterpart of the Gotra followed by the Brahmins, influenced by the Brahmin tradition. Every family is identified by its Bari. The name of the Bari may denote a particular personality, symbol, place or name of a well known divinity. It is thought that the Baris in Tulu nadu were organized by chiefs, who were called Ballalas. Ballalas were said to have gained importance in Tulu nadu after the marriage between Hoysala king, Vira Ballala and the Alupa queen Chikkayi Tayi. Bari sets the rules for marriage alliances as well as adoption procedures. There cannot be marriage alliances between the same Baris. There are more than one hundred thirty named Baris established but eighteen of them are recognized from the days of King Bhutala Pandya. They are called aliya santana Baris. A Bunt is identified with his Bari from his mother's lineage rather than the father's, as Bunts are matrilineal

There are fourteen Guttus and sixteen Kattales which lay down the rules of aliya santana. These are commandments of the marriage customs, social positions of each of the Baris, management of family property and the ceremonies to be observed on occasions of births and deaths. They also enumerate laws of the land. Rules regarding social behavior and morality are found in the kattales, especially related to female behaviour. Women are given great importance among Bunts. Punishments and acceptance of women who go astray are laid down in elaborate manner. Rules of widow marriage and marriage of women who have been abandoned or abused by their husbands are detailed in sixteen different commandments pertaining to different ethnic groups of Tulu nadu. The laws according to Guttu and kattale are said to have been enjoined by Bhutala Pandya, as dictated by the benevolent demon Kundodara.

Marriage rituals

Marriage ceremonies traditionally took place within temple complexes.

Nischitartham or nikshaya: The Engagement ceremony

The men folk from the bride's family proceed to the groom's house carrying a silver platter laden with betel leaves, betel nuts and flowers. An elder from the family is assigned the task of introducing the two families to each other. This visit is a mere formality to confirm the date and time of the forthcoming wedding. The exchange of betel leaves and nuts is a confirmation of the alliance and the elders are a witness to it. These days the 'nischitartham' might even be a more elaborate occasion, where the bride and groom exchange diamond engagement rings and the family follows this up by hosting a lavish party for close friends and relatives.

Madarengee: The Henna Ceremony

This ceremony is held separately in both homes. Traditionally this used to be a very simple ritual where just a dot of 'mehendi' or henna was applied to the bride's palms and finger tips, but has now evolved into a full fledged celebration complete with professional henna artists or 'mehendiwallis' being invited to weave intricate designs on the hands and feet of the bride and her close female friends and relatives. 'Mehendi is applied on the groom as well - but just as a symbolic dot on his palm.

Mangalasnana: A Ritual bath

The 'mangalasnana' ceremony is held separately in both homes one day before the wedding. The groom's cousins and other close family relatives apply turmeric and coconut milk on his face, body and arms. The barber gives him a haircut and then his sister's husband or maternal cousin leads him for his bath. A similar ceremony is held at the bride's home, where her cousins apply the turmeric and coconut A Ritual Bathing milk on her face and body. Her brother's wife or any other older lady from the family leads her for her bath. After the bath she completes the ritual by wearing a new sari, gold jewellery, and black bangles. The bride and groom then proceed to their 'puja' rooms and after a brief prayer go to the 'tulsi katta' (sacred tulsi plant) to witness the 'tulsi puja' performed by the Brahmin.

Murthasaese:

The bride and groom are blessed by their families and close friends This ritual is once again conducted separately in both homes and takes place after the 'tulsi puja'. Primarily a ceremony for receiving blessings, it has however turned into an elaborate function where a 'pandol' or canopy is decorated with flowers and banana palms and owing to the number of invitees, it is not possible to host it inside the homes. The bride's maternal uncle and aunt slip silver toe-rings on her feet. The eldest 'sumangali' (married lady) distributes red and green glass bangles to all the women present. The bride has to wear black, red and green bangles. All the elders who shower her with rice then bless her. The groom goes through a similar ritual - where his maternal uncle's wife or his paternal aunt adorns his feet with silver toe-rings. He too is blessed by all with the showering of rice.

Muhurtham or lagnam : Commencement of the wedding ceremonies

According to tradition the elders in the Bunt community officiated during the marriage ceremony along with the brahmins. These days however,Brahmins alone do the needful. The groom is escorted to the venue of the wedding by his sister's husband or maternal uncle. The bride's brother receives him at the venue and welcomes him by washing his feet. The bride's aunt performs the traditional 'aarti' in his honour and the bride's mother follows it up by performing the 'deepa aarti' (welcome ritual performed with lighted lamps) for him. The bride arrives at the venue of the wedding in all her finery and is received by her brother's wife, a cousin or an aunt, who leads her to the 'mantap' (platform erected for the marriage ceremony). Her brother washes her feet as well and a similar type of welcome ceremony is performed for her. The 'Brahmin' requests the groom's sister and her husband or a cousin to hold the hands of the bride and groom and lead them around the 'deepa' (lamps) and the 'mantapa'. After this the couple enters the 'mantapa' and after a Vedic puja is performed, they exchange garlands.

Dharemaipuna / dhareyeruna: The wedding ceremony

The bride's parents in the presence of her maternal uncle, his wife and elders of her family perform this ceremony. A silver or gold 'chembu' (vessel with a spout) filled with 'Theertha' or 'ganga jala'(holy water) is held by the bride's parents and taken to all the elders of both the families for their blessings. A gold coin known as 'nanya' is placed on the bride's palm beneath which the groom places his hands and the bride's parents pour the water from the 'chembu' onto the couple's hands. This ritual is called dhare. The 'mangalsutra' (gold chain with black beads), is blessed by 5 'sumangalis' (married women) and the groom ties it around the bride's neck. The bride then slips a plain gold ring on the groom's finger. The bride and groom are made to hold the 'chembu' and sit down and rise three times in quick succession. This is known as the 'dhareyeruna'.

Homam: Sacred fire sacrifice

The Brahmins lights the sacred fire known as homa or sacrifice is performed amidst Vedic chants. The bride's brother puts fistfuls of puffed rice into the hands of his sister and the groom, which they in turn offer into the sacred fire each time they go around it, namely three times.

Saptapadi: The seven steps around the sacred fire

The groom holds the bride's hands and together they take seven steps around the fire. With each step the bride has to tip over small heaps of rice with her right foot and repeat the seven marriage vows along with the groom.

Bunt surnames

Bunts have a little over hundred surnames, but the most common are 'Shetty', 'Rai' and 'Hegde'.^[9]^[10] Other surnames among the Bunts are Adappa, Adasu,Adyanthaya, Ajila, Ajiri/Ajri, Alva, Arasa, Ariga, Athaara / Attara, Athikaari / Athikari, Athre, Bari, Baithani / Bythani, Ballal, Banga, Bangaar, Bhandaari / Bhandary, Bhoja, Binnage, Brana, Budale, Bunnala, Bunta / Banta, Chowta / Chauta, Dore, Ghambheera / Ghambhir, Horuva, Kajava, Kanjava, Kava, Kadamba, Kakva, Kambali, Kaantheeva / Kanthiva, Kariyaal / Karyal, Kayya, Kille, Konde, Kottari / Kottary, Kudre, Kundade, Kundahegde, Mada, Mana, Manava, Manayi / Manaae, Mardi, Marla, Marala, Maddala, Mallala, Malli, Marthe,M elanta, Menava, Menda, Mudhya, Mudya, Mugayya, Mukkala, Mundera, Muraya, Naadava, Nanaya, Naik, Nayaka / Nayaga, Nayara, Nonda, Pala, Pandi / Pandyi, Padyar, Pakkala, Paradi, Palayi / Palae, Patlashetty, Payyade, Payyahegde, Payyani, Pegde, Pergade, Poonja / Punja, Poovani / Puvani, Raja, Raya, Samani, Samanta, Santha / Santa, Sankaya, Semita, Servegara, Sheba, Shekha / Sheka, Shenava / Senava, Shettyvala, Sooda, Sorapa, Sulaya / Sulae, Tanjiva, Tholara, Vala, Varma, Verman

Notable Bunts

Tuluva Narasa Nayaka,Emperor of Vijayanagara Empire
Viranarasimha Raya,Emperor of Vijayanagara Empire
Krishnadevaraya,Emperor of Vijayanagara Empire
Achyuta Deva Raya,Emperor of Vijayanagara Empire
Sadashiva Raya,Emperor of Vijayanagara Empire
Mulky Sundar Ram Shetty :Noted Banker of Vijaya Bank
A. B. Shetty:Founder of Vijaya Bank
Devi Prasad Shetty:Philanthropist and Surgeon, Narayana Hrudayalaya
Bavaguthu Raghuram Shetty:Business Tycoon, New Medical Centre
R N Shetty:CMD RNS Infrastructure, Murudeshwara
Manmohan Shetty:Founder Adlabs
K.S. Hegde: Former Speaker of Lok Sabha, Supreme court judge
Nitte Santhosh Hegde: Karnataka Lokayuktha,Former supreme court judge
Ajit Shetty:Businessman, Janssen Pharmaceutica Belgium
Kayyara Kinyanna Rai: Poet, Freedom fighter
Sunil: Late Kannada actor
Aishwarya Rai: Bollywood actress, Former Miss World
Suniel Shetty: Bollywood actor
Shilpa Shetty: Bollywood actress
Shamita Shetty: Bollywood actress
Prakash Rai: Actor, Director
Vinay Rai: Actor
Anushka Shetty:Actress
Ganesh Hegde: ,Choreographer
Gurukiran: Singer,Music composer
Sandeep Chowta:music director
Prakash Shetty: Cartoonist
Shweta Shetty: Singer
Rohit Shetty: Film Director
Santosh Rai Pathaje: Director
Ashish Kumar Ballal: Former India Field Hockey Captain
Shubha Poonja: Actress
Nalin Kumar Kateel :M.P., Dakshina Kannada
Chidvilasananda:Present Guru of Siddha Yoga Tradition.
Swami Nityanand: Indian Guru, Founder Shanti Mandir
Reshma Shetty:Actress
Suresh Shetty:Minister Maharashtra State Government
Kalidas Shetty:Food Scientist
Salil Shetty:Secretary General, Amnesty International
Balkrishna Shetty:Indian Ambassador to Sweden
Shashi Kiran Shetty:Indian businessman
Belle Monappa Hegde:Veteran Physician and Medical educator
R.Verman : Noted Indian Art director
Vonthibettu Prabhakara Hegde:Vir Chakra awardee,Squadron Leader in the Indian Air Force
Vittal Rai : Scientist

Courtesy:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bunt_(community)

Onake Abbi Falls

2010-02-04T05:27:00.000-08:00

If your bored, lonely or unhappy, best remedy is to go outside with friends, somewhere where there can be heavens, nature and God. Yes, I mean the same, to visit to beautiful places on earth and falling in love with them.
One such a fantastic place of my recent visit is "Onake Abbi". It is one of the falls around Agumbe, a village located in the Shimoga district, Karnataka. This part of the Malnad region is among the places in India that receive heaviest rain fall. The place around is simply beautiful and challenging.
How did we reach?
Onake Abbi is around 90km from Shimoga and 100km from Manglore. We the group of thirteen friends started from Manipal. Our plan was to start by 7:30 am but you know, it wont happen as bachelors party never end in time. We left Manipal by 9 am after our breakfast. If your going by bike, don't miss to fill with sufficient engine oil. Also its best way to keep a half liter oil in a bottle, it helps if someone manages to empty the tank during parking.
Our next stopping was Hebri. To visit to Onake Abbi its must to take permission from the RFO(Range Forest Officer) at Hebri. They will charge you visiting and treking fee, which comes about 115 Rs per head. If you need a guide you have to pay 150 Rs overall. Also since 2005, Naxalite activities observed near Agumbe they even take personal responsibility letter from visitors. However this has not hindered visitors from enjoying the priceless beauty around. After taking permission and the mobile number of the guide whom we have to meet, we started again. The start point of trek is about 7km from hebri, near to a place called Someshwara. Also make sure you have all the eatables and water bottles before you leave. Take fruits, biscuit, glucose and sufficient water. By 10:30am we reached the trek spot, where our guide was waiting.
Trekking...
At the starting location, guide will show you a house, where you can park your vehicles. Get ready for the action, your going to sweat like anything. Its around 4km, small but really challenging task ahead. Enjoy the beauty of nature at each step. You will really spend good time with friends. Take photos and you can make out the changes on everyones face from photo to photo. Beauty should be captured. You can even witness different type of monkeys playing around. As much possible be in group. We reached the spot after about 2 hours.
As you reach...
.... no words to explain. Its just fantastic. As you touch the cold water falling, you will forget every stress and the difficulty you faced reaching there. Have snacks and fruits you had taken. Drink the cold falls water, don't think twice. Believe me you feel 'mast'. Climb few rocks and you reach the final thrilling spot. Forget everything, just jump into water. You find really nice place to swim, around 4-7 feet height. Time does not count when you are there in such places. Study nature, love nature and be close to nature. Everything in nature is lyrical by fact, enjoy it.
Return...
We enjoyed there for more than three hours. Had some snacks and fruits again. Drink and fill the water bottles again, you know your going to sweat again. Don't through plastics, nature is clean heaven and keep it clean. You don't have to climb a lot this time, but the way is steep. Its even more chllenging to hold the grip. Came down, had some mangoes since its the season. And we started our return journey.
It is my first own blog and I am happy to write on such a beautiful place. You will definitly enjoy.

Sirimane water Falls

2010-02-04T05:21:00.000-08:00

Fact File:

Sirimane falls is 5Kms from Kigga in Chickmagalur district and is around 22kms away from the Sringeri.
Distance from Bangalore : 300+kms.
Nearest Hospital : Sringeri.
Nearest food point : Sringeri.
Nearest Petrol Bunk : Sringeri.

How to get there:

Take a bus from Sringeri which goes to Kigga.You will not get a bus which takes you near the waterfall you will have to walk 5kms after you get down at Kigga. There is motorable way to the waterfall.

One of the numerous waterfalls of the Western Ghats. This beautiful waterfall is at 5 kilometers distance from the place Kigga near Sringeri.

This waterfall though small in size when compared to the other waterfalls of the Western Ghats. But in beauty this one as pretty as others. Best season for visiting would be just after the rainy season.

It is both good and bad as this waterfall is easily accessible through road. Good, the road makes the visit safe and fast. Bad news is that such easily accessible nice places are always crowded and crowded with "picnic going" crowd.

Already this place is being spoilt. One can see writings on stone and lots of plastic bags thown around. pity!

Other places of interest nearby are :Narasimha Parvata. Aagumbe, Sringeri, Uluve Bird Sanctt.

Tyarekoppa Lion Safari

2009-12-08T04:12:00.000-08:00

Tyarekoppa Lion Safari is a great place to enjoy the unaltered nature and wildlife. Situated at a distance of 10 Km from Shimoga, Tyarekoppa Lion safari was established in the year 1988. Forest department organizes safaris regularly into the deep jungles. One gets to see here lions, tigers, cheetah, bear, deer and many more magnificent animals. Bird watching is also an option in the park as there are few Migratory birds that come here during the season. The safari covers an area of 200 hectares, most of which is dense forest.

Kundadri Hill Station

2009-12-08T03:53:00.000-08:00

The unspoilt Kundadri hill station in Karnataka situated in Teerthahalli taluk of Shimoga, still remains one of the favorite spots for tourists keen in mountain trekking. The mountains are unexplored and one can feel the excitement in discovering new pathways to the peak. Kundadri hill station is a huge monolithic rock formation about 3200 feet above sea level. It is covered with dense evergreen forests.
A seventeenth century Jain temple is situated on the hilltop amidst the serenity that belongs to the mountains. Beside the temple there are two ponds with placid water and lotus blooming. Kundadri named after the Jain monk, Kundakundacharya who was said to have practiced severe penance here throngs with Jain Pilgrims during the Makar Sankranti.

Tourists plan for a vacation in the quiet hills of Kundari to enjoy its solitude, the cool breeze that blow from the west, the clear blue firmament and the setting sun that may the most mesmerizing experience for many. Rivers flowing at the foothill can be seen from the mountaintop and the backwaters of Varahi Dam add to the scenic beauty.
If you are planning a trip to the Kundadri hill station in Karnataka you would be enjoying trekking the scenic mountain slopes, bird watching and visiting the magnificent falls. To reach Kundadri hill station you can travel from Teerthahalli via Nalur or through Kammaradi-Begar-Hosagadde to ‘Kundadri circle,' the commencing point to climb the hill. It is always advisable to plan the trip from Nalur because of distance as well as easy transport. The route from Kammaradi-Begar-Hosagadde will befit those who start their journey from Sringeri. If you love hiking you can take the route from Teerthahalli via Kammaradi- Nadabur-Halakunda and about a walk 6 kilometres from Kammaradi to reach the foothill.

Devi Chaudamma temple at Sigandur

2009-12-08T03:38:00.000-08:00

This place is located in the other side of backwater of river Sharavathi ( before Jog falls ). To reach this place people have to come to the main city Sagar. Sagar is nearly 350Kms from Bangalore city. Frequent buses are available from Bangalore to Shimoga city and to Sagar. It is not possible to go and come back from Bangalore in one day as the launch service (for crossing the river Sharavathi) is limited and the distance is more. From Sagar private vehicles or private buses are available (mud road). Vehicles reach one side of the bank in the river Sharavathi. Launch ( ferry ) service is available from this bank to the other bank to cover a distance of one Km. Service available upto 5.00pm only.

The other side of the river is a small village called Kalasavalli belonging to the main place called Tumari. From this place Sigandur is nearly ten KMs. The goddess Chaudamma ( Chowdamma ) temple is located at Sigandur. During Sankranti ( in the month of January ) a festival is celebrated here. Tourist from all part of India visit this place during the festival. People offer goat and chickens to full fill their wishes during this festival.

The temple priest gives a cupper and brass tag to the devotes for nominal fee. There is a belief that on wearing this tag belonging will not be stolen from houses.

Accomodation is available only at temple premises for limited number of persons only. Food is not available in this place as there are no private hotels.

Temple Address
Pradhana Archaka
Sri Sigandur Chaudamma temple
Kalasavalli
Post: Tumari
Taluk: Sagar
District: Shimoga
State:Karnataka

Here are some details regarding transportation (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private bus services) from Sigandur towards Sagar, Shimoga and other places.

Time	Towards	Bus service
6.45 am	Bhatkal	KSRTC
8.45 am	Shimoga	Private – Bhagyalaxmi
9.30 am	Sagar	Private - Varada
10.25 am	Nittur	Private – Gajanana
12.00 noon	Sullalli	Private – Varada
12.00 noon	Sagar	Private – Varada
12.30 pm	Sullalli	Private – Gajanana
2.15 pm	Sagar	Private – Gajanana
2.30 pm	Kattina karu	Private – Gajanana
2.45 pm	Hosanagara	Private - Bhagyalaxmi
3.30 pm	Sagar	Private – Varada
4.15 pm	Nittur	Private – Varada
5.00 pm	Sullalli	Private – Varada
5.15 pm	Sagar	Private - Gajanana (from Kalasavalli)
6.30 pm	Kogar	Private – Gajanana (from Kalasavalli)

Shimoga District PIN Codes and Zip Codes

2009-12-07T03:46:00.000-08:00

Location	PINCode / ZIPCode

• Agumbe	577411
• Ambedkar Nagar	577201
• Anandapuram	577412
• Anavatti	577413
• Anaveri	577243
• Arasalu	577438
• Arbilichi	577321
• Avinahlli	577439
• Ayanur	577211
• Bandigudde	577247
• Barandur	577245
• Basavani	577440
• Basavapatna(shimoga)	577551
• Bejjavalli	577232
• Belagaavi	577450
• Belagutti	577212
• Bhadravathi	577301
• Bhadravathi H O	577301
• Bhadravathi New Model College	577303
• Bhadravathi New Town	577301
• Bhadravathi R S	577303
• Channageri	577213
• Channageri Town	577213
• Chilur	577230
• Devangi	577415
• Devarahalli	577234
• Gandhi Nagar Sagar	577401
• Harige	577244
• Hithla	577214
• Hodikere	577215
• Holalur	577216
• Holehonnur	577227
• Honnali	577217
• Honnesara	577417
• Hosa Nagar	577418
• Humcha	577436
• Hutha Colony	577303
• Issur	577236
• Jade	577419
• Jannapura	577301
• Jog Falls	577435
• Kanivebilichi	577231
• Kargal Colony	577421
• Kavalgundi	577229
• Keladi	577443
• Kerebilichi	577218
• Kodimbala	574307
• Kodur	577445
• Kuddigere	577233
• Kudli	577237
• Kumblur	577238
• Kumsi	577423
• Kundur	577219
• Kuppadagdde	577446
• Lingadahalli	577444
• Linganamakki	577444
• Malur (shimoga)	577240
• Mandagadde	577220
• Market Yard Apmc	577201
• Mastikatte	577448
• Mathur	577235
• Megaravalli	577424
• Moody	577449
• Nagar	577425
• Nallur	577221
• Nidige	577222
• Nyamati	577223
• Old Town	577303
• Pillangere	577241
• Rajendrapete	577202
• Ravindranagar	577201
• Ripponpete	577426
• S V P Colony	577435
• Sagar Bazar	577401
• Sagar H O	577401
• Sagar Market Road	577401
• Sasvehalli	577224
• Saulanga	577225
• Shikaripur	577427
• Shikaripur Bazar	577427
• Shimoga	577201
• Shimoga Bus Stand	577201
• Shimoga District	577201
• Shimoga Doddapet	577202
• Shimoga H O	577201
• Shimoga Kote	577202
• Shimoga Krishna	577202
• Shimoga Market	577201
• Shimoga Office	577201
• Shimoga Railway	577201
• Shimoga Vidyanagar	577202
• Shiralkoppa	577428
• Sorab	577429
• Sorabtown	577429
• Sugur	577242
• Thirthahalli Town	577432
• Thirthalli	577432
• Togarsi	577433
• Tudur	577226
• Ulabi	577434
• Vinobanagar Shimoga	577201
• Yedur	577246
• Abbalagere	577225
• Achapura	577412
• Agaradahalli	577227
• Agasanahalli	577413
• Agraharamuchadi	577450
• Amatekoppa	577427
• Ambaragodlu	577417
• Ambaragoppa	577427
• Ambligola	577214
• Anandapuram So	577412
• Antharagange	577245
• Apmc Yard-sagar Ndtbo	577401
• Arabilichi	577233
• Aralagodu	577421
• Aralapura	577414
• Aralasurali	577414
• Aralihalli	577233
• Arasinagere	577214
• Arhatolalu	577243
• Avinahalli	577401
• B.beeranahalli	577227
• B.dodderi	577434
• Baganakatte	577427
• Banashankari Extension Ndt B.o	577201
• Bandigudda	577301
• Begur(shikaripur)	577427
• Beguvalli	577226
• Belagavi	577450
• Bellur(hosanagar)	577426
• Belur(sagar)	577401
• Bhadra Colony	577301
• Bhadra Reservoir Project So	577115
• Bhadravathi Hudco Colony Nddts	577301
• Bhadravathi Hutha Colony Nddt	577301
• Bhadravathi Jannapura Ndt So	577301
• Bhadravathi New Model Colony S	577301
• Bhadravathi Old Town Ndt So	577301
• Bhadravathi Paper Town So	577302
• Bhadravathi Railway Stn So	577301
• Bhadravati Hpo	577301
• Bhanukuli	577421
• Bharangi	577413
• Bharathipura	577432
• Bheemanakere	577418
• Bheemanakone	577417
• Bidarehalli	577436
• Bilavani	577428
• Biliki	577450
• Brahmanakappige	577401
• Brahmanamanchale	577431
• Bullapura	577216
• Byacodu	577401
• Byranakoppa	577416
• Chadaravalli	577401
• Chakkodabylu	577432
• Chandragutti	577429
• Chikjambur	577428
• Chordi	577423
• Churchugundi	577214
• Dasarakallahalli	577227
• Demlapura	577422
• Doddagoppenahalli	577302
• Donabaghatta	577229
• Dooravasapura	577432
• Dyavanahalli	577419
• Gama	577214
• Gandinagar-sagar Ndt So	577401
• Garden Area Shimoga Ndtso	577201
• Genasinakuni	577417
• Gendla	577419
• Gilalagundi	577412
• Gondichatnahalli	577216
• Gouthmapura	577412
• Gudavi	577429
• Guddekere	577411
• Guddekoppa	577414
• Guthi Yedehalli	577226
• Hadigallu	577422
• Haihole	577202
• Halaga	577220
• Halagalale	577429
• Halesorab	577429
• Halugadde	577426
• Hamsagaru	577430
• Hanagere	577226
• Haniya	577418
• Hansawadi	577216
• Haramaghatta	577216
• Harathalu	577412
• Haridravathi	577412
• Harishi	577429
• Harnahalli	577416
• Harogoppa	577214
• Harogulige	577415
• Harohithlu	577426
• Hebbarige	577417
• Hebbige	577452
• Heche	577429
• Heddaripura	577436
• Heddur	577415
• Heggodu	577432
• Hirekasavi	577447
• Hiremane	577430
• Holebenavalli	577222
• Holehonner	577227
• Hosabale	577434
• Hosagadde	577411
• Hosagodnakoppa	577427
• Hosanagar	577418
• Hosudi	577222
• Hosur(shikaaripur)	577427
• Hosur-anandapuram	577412
• Hulidevarabana	577417
• Humchadakatte	577436
• Hunasakatte Junction	577115
• Huruli	577424
• Iduvani	577421
• J.p.s.colony	577302
• Jayanagar Nd B.o	577201
• Jog Falls So	577435
• Jog Falls View Ndbo	577435
• K.b.circle	577452
• Kachinakatte	577222
• Kadasur	577436
• Kadathur	577432
• Kadekal	577203
• Kadenandihalli	577428
• Kagenahalli	577427
• Kagodu	577401
• Kalmane	577214
• Kalmane(sagar)	577401
• Kambadahal Hosur	577115
• Kammachi	577436
• Kanle	577430
• Kannangi	577226
• Kappanahalli	577427
• Kargal Colony So	577421
• Karunapura	577424
• Kattehakklu	577415
• Kawalgundi	577229
• Kawerihaklu	577411
• Kawrihaklu	577411
• Kenchanala	577426
• Kendahalli	577411
• Kendalbailu	577411
• Kerehalli	577419
• Keshavapura	577422
• Khandika	577401
• Kittadahalli	577427
• Kodakani	577429
• Koduru	577418
• Kogar	577421
• Kolagi	577433
• Kommanahalu	577225
• Kongavalli	577416
• Kote Gangur	577204
• Kotethariga	577418
• Krishnarajendrapete-shimoga	577202
• Kubatur	577413
• Kudligere	577233
• Kudumallige	577232
• Kugve	577401
• Kukke	577232
• Kunchenahalli	577225
• Kuppagadde	577429
• Kuruvalli Ndt Bo	577432
• Kuskur	577447
• Kvv Shankaraghattta So	577451
• Madakechilur	577216
• Madasurlingadahalli	577434
• Mahishi	577232
• Makkimane	577415
• Malalagadde	577434
• Malalur	577432
• Malavagoppa	577222
• Mallapura(sorab)	577413
• Maluru	577401
• Malve	577401
• Manchikoppa	577428
• Mandaghatta	577211
• Marathur	577430
• Maravalli	577427
• Marketyard Apmc Shimoga	577204
• Maruthipura	577412
• Masthikatte	577448
• Masur(sagar)	577401
• Mathikai	577452
• Mathimane	577425
• Mattikote	577427
• Mavali	577429
• Melige	577415
• Melinabesige	577418
• Melinasampalli	577412
• Muddanahalli	577427
• Mumbar	577418
• Muniyur	577436
• Mutugoppe	577434
• Mydolalau	577243
• Nagarakodige	577418
• Nagara-shimoga So	577425
• Nagodi	577452
• Nalur	577424
• Nanditale	577412
• Navile Bo	577204
• Neechadi	577431
• Nilskal	577425
• Nisrani	577434
• Nonabur	577414
• Padavagodu	577434
• Pillanagere	577227
• Puradalu	577204
• Purappemane	577417
• Ravindranagr-shimoga Ndt So	577201
• Ripponpet	577426
• Ryave	577425
• S.v.p.colony Ndt So	577435
• Sagar Bazar Ndt So	577401
• Sagar Hpo	577401
• Sagar Market Road Ndt So	577401
• Sakunavalli	577419
• Salur	577214
• Salur(thirthahalli)	577414
• Samanavalli	577413
• Sanda	577447
• Sankadahole	577432
• Santhekadur	577222
• Sanyasikodamaggi	577243
• Saru	577422
• Sasaravalli	577401
• Saualanga	577225
• Seebinakere	577432
• Shedgaru	577415
• Sheshadripuram Extn Nd Bo	577201
• Shigga	577434
• Shikaripura Bazar Ndt Bo	577427
• Shimoga Ambedkarnagar Ndt So	577201
• Shimoga District Office Ndt So	577201
• Shimoga Doddapete So	577202
• Shimoga Hpo	577201
• Shimoga Kote Ndt So	577202
• Shimoga Market Ndt So	577202
• Shimoga Railway Station Ndt So	577201
• Shiralakoppa	577428
• Shiravanthe	577401
• Sidlipura	577227
• Sindhuvadi	577220
• Singanabidre	577220
• Siriyur	577229
• Sogane	577222
• Sonale	577418
• Sorab So	577429
• Sorab Town Ndt So	577429
• Suguru	577216
• Sullali	577401
• Sunnadahalli	577245
• Sunnadakoppa	577428
• Suragihalli	577427
• Sydarakallahalli	577243
• Syduru	577430
• Tadagalale	577430
• Tadasanahalli	577428
• Talagadde	577419
• Talagunda	577450
• Talaguppa	577430
• Talale	577426
• Talavata	577421
• Tattur	577433
• Tavanandi	577429
• Telagunda	577419
• Thallikatte	577227
• Thenginakoppa	577414
• Thirthahalli	577432
• Thirthahalli Town Ndt So	577432
• Thirthamathur	577415
• Thuppur	577423
• Tumary	577401
• Udri	577433
• Udugani	577447
• Ulavi	577434
• Ullur	577412
• Umblebylu	577115
• Untoorkatte	577424
• Urgadur	577203
• Varadamoola	577417
• Veerannana Benavalli	577211
• Vidyanagar Shimoga So	577203
• Vinobanagar Shimoga So	577204
• Yedehalli	577227
• Yedjigalamane	577401
• Yedur Bo	577448
• Yelagere	577433
• Yennekoppa	577413

Taluks of Shimoga District

2009-11-13T00:57:00.000-08:00

1. Shimoga

2. Soraba

3. Sagara

4. Hosanagara

5. Thirthahalli

6. Shikaripura

7. Bhadravathi

Bhadravathi

2009-11-13T00:49:00.000-08:00

Bhadravathi is an industrial town in the Shimoga District of Karnataka state, India. It is situated at a distance of about 255 kilometres from the state capital Bangalore and at about 18 kilometres from the district headquarters, Shimoga. It is also the headquarters of the Bhadravathi Taluk. The town is spread over an area of 67 km² and has a population of 160,662 as per the census held in 2001.

Shikaripura

2009-11-13T00:47:00.001-08:00

Shikaripura is a town and taluk headquarters of Shikaripura Taluk of Shimoga district in the state of Karnataka, India. It lies between plain ground ( Bayaluseemae ) and tropical forests ( Malenadu ). It is around 52 k.m. from Shimoga and 50 k.m. from Ranebennur

This is B. S. Yeddyurappa's costituency.

Shikaripura is also famous for the temple of Lord Huchuraya Swamy also called as Brantesha, Hanuman, Anjenaya, Vayuputra, etc., Every year on the day of Davanada Hunnime the Brahma rathotsava of the lord will take place.

Hosanagara

2009-11-13T00:46:00.000-08:00

Hosanagara is a panchayat town in Shimoga district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is nested in western ghats of India. Recently World Cattle Conference with main emphasis on cow was held in month of April 2007 here. The different uses of cow ( not the meat ) were exhibited.

Sagara

2009-11-12T23:34:00.001-08:00

Sagara is a town located in the district of Shimoga of the Indian state of Karnataka. Located within the Western Ghats range, it is known for its proximity to Jog Falls and to the historical places of Ikkeri and Keladi. Varadamoola, the origin of the river Varada, is also near Sagara.

Sagara derives its name from Sadashiva Sagara, which is a lake. Sadashiva Nayaka, ruler of Keladi dynasty built a lake in between Keladi and Ikkeri. The lake Sadashiva Sagara is now called "Ganapathi Kere" (Ganapathi Lake).It is a sub divisional head quarters headed by Sub Divisional Magistrate. Currently the post is held by Dr Praveen Kumar G L,an officer of 2006 bat

Sagara is surrounded by places of historical importance and natural beauty including the Marikamba Temple and the Mahaganapati Temple within the town. One can find these places with the help of milestones and hoardings which are usually in Kannada.

Keladi

A Shiva temple of historical importance is located here. It is located at a distance of 6 km from the town. One has to take a diversion at Sorab Road. There is a museum conatining old manuscripts written during the times of the Keladi dynasty.

Ikkeri

This place is of historical importance due to the presence of a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. One has to take a diversion at B. H. Road and travel 6 km.

Kalasi

This is another historically important place with a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is situated at a distance of 8 km from the town and one has to travel along Sorab Road for 6 km and take a diversion.

Varadapura (Varadahalli/Vaddalli)

This place is situated 6 km from the town where one has to take a diversion from Jog Road soon after the end of the town limits. It is famous for the samadhi of His Holiness Sri Sridhara Swami who was among the great saints of 20th century.

Honnemaradu

Honnemaradu is situated on the banks of the backwaters of the Sharavathi river. A big water mass extends up to the Chakra dam. It is about 25 km from Sagara town towards Jog and 10 km from Talaguppa. Indian Institute For Adventure Applications is a training institute situated here which uses adventure as a platform for learning.

Holebaagilu

Holebaagilu is situated on the banks of the Sharavathi River at about 30 km from Sagara. One has to take a diversion from B. H. Road towards Ikkeri Road to get there. The Sharavati backwaters of Linganamakki dam has submerged acres of land here. It is a place of natural beauty. It is situated in Kolur Grama Panchayat Limits. One has to take a "launch" (flatboat) to get across the backwaters to reach the other side where Sigandooru is located. The ride is really enjoyable. The first priority is given for localites and their vehicles in this launch since they are the affected ones due to this submersion. Madenur Dam which was submerged due to the construction of the Linganamakki Dam is at a short distance from here. It can be seen only during summer.

Sigandooru

Sigandooru is a holy place of Goddess Chaudeshwari. A large temple of Goddess Chaudeshwari is situated here. This Goddess is a highly believed deity in Sagara and the surrounding taluks as a protector against theft and robbery. The place is best visited in the early hours of the day as it offers a good view of women bathing in the river. Coupons for entry will be distributed on first come first serve basis.

Jog Falls

The world famous Jog Falls ís in Sagar Talluk, Shivamogga District. It is approximately 25Km from Sagar if we go by national highway 206.

Soraba

2009-11-12T23:31:00.001-08:00

Soraba is a panchayat town in Shimoga district in the Indian state of Karnataka.

Sorab derives its name from its earlier name Surabhipura meaning Town of Surabhi. Surabhi was the holy cow which used to milk on a stone statue of the god Sri Ranganatha. A temple is built on the same place where the holy cow used to milk and it is now Sorab's famous Sri Ranganatha temple. Story says that the temple was built by a local Gowda(Landlord) from Halesoraba on the bay of river Dandavathi. We still have the manuscript written in Old Kannada script on the stone tower near - bay of river Dandavathi (Just a walkable distance from temple). Sorab is now a Taluk headquarters. It's a small town with all basic facility. Sorab's main road(ratha beedhi) is the only road (which stretch for approximately a kilo meter) have its main shops and hospitals.

Soraba is also nearest town to Banavasi other than Sirsi, Karnataka which was capital of Kadambas during 9th century and is more of historical interest to many enthusiasts who come under archeological survey.

Shimoga travel guide

2009-11-09T23:30:00.000-08:00

Shimoga is located on the north western cost of Karnataka. It shares boundary with Uttara Kannada in the north, Udupi in the south and south west and Chikmagalur in the south, Davangere in the east and Haveri in the north and north-east.
District Headquarter: Shimoga
Distance: 274 km from Bangalore, 180 km from Mangalore and 205 km from Hubli
Journey time: Around 6 hours from Bangalore by bus or train.
How to reach there: On can reach there by bus, train or private vehicle. There are numerous buses available through out the day and late night from KSRTC bus stand Majestic.
Route: Bangalore – Tumkur – Birur – Kadur – Arsikere – Bhadravati – Shimoga (NH 206)
Where to stay:
1. Jewel Rock Hotel
Durgigudi, Shimoga
2. Vihangama Holiday Retreat, Bharathipura Post, Thirthahalli Taluk,Shimoga Dist. 577432
3. Hotel Mathura Residency
Mathura Arcade,
Balraj Urs Road,
Shimoga
4. Hotel Sundar Ashraya
Thirthahally Road,
Shimoga
5. Hotel Surya Comforts
Shimoga
6. Hotel Sanman Lodge
Garden Area, 3rd Cross
Nehru Road,
Shimoga
Where to eat:
Language spoken: Kannada, Hindi and English understood in the urban areas.

The name Shimoga is derived from two words Shiva (Lord Shiva) and Mukha (Face), meaning face of Shiva. In 2006, the erstwhile JDS government changed the name to Shivamoga. The lanscape of Shimoga is very beautiful with lush green forests, hills and water falls. The main occupation apart from the urban areas are agriculture. The present CM of Karnataka hails from Shimoga. A new airport is under construction there.
What to see:
1. Jogg Falls: Jog falls is the highest water falls in India formed by river Sharavathi falling from a height 253 meters (829 ft). It also know by other names like Gerusoppe falls, Gersoppa Falls and Jogada Gundi in Kannada. It located around 100 km from Shimoga city at the border of Shimoga and north Kannada district.The river breaks down into four distinct falls viz. Raja, Rani, Rocket and Roarer.
It is here the first hydro electric power generation started in Asia. At power generation takes place from Linganmakki Dam on river Sharavathi. The power station was earlier known as Krishna Rajendra hydro-electric project, later renamed as Mahatma Gandhi hydro-electric Project.
Best season to visit: July to September
Where to stay:
1. Hotel Mayura Gerusoppa (KSTDC)
Jogfalls
Phone : 08186-344732
2. PWD Inspection Banglow
Phone : 08186-344333
2. Tyarekoppa Lion Safari: Tyarekoppa Lion Safari comes on the way to Sagar town around 10 km away from Shimoga town. Here one can sight Lions, Tigers, Cheetah, Bear, Deer, and rare migratory birds in lush green deep forest.
3. Tunga Anecut: The Tunga dam, over river Tunga is located 10 km from Shimoga town on the way to Tirthahalli at Gajanur. It is a nice picnic spot.
4. Achakanya Falls: Achakanya Falls is formed when river Saravathi takes big leap. It is located around 10 km from Thirthahalli on the way to Hosanagar near Aralsuruli.
5. Hidlamane Falls: Hidlamane Falls is located near Nittur in Hosanagar Taluka. To direct motorable roads are available. One need to trek through lush green forest to reach there.
6. B.R.P Dam: This dam was constructed on river Bhadra around 29 km from Shimoga city near Kuvempu university. A number of small islands created by river Bhadra here. It is nice romantic place ideal for picnic and boat rides.
7. Vanake-Abbey Falls: Abbey falls is located 4 km away from Agumbe. The falls is surrounded by green forest.
8. Agumbe: Agumbe is one of the popular sunset point in Karnataka. Agumbe receives the highest rainfall in Karnataka and also known as Chirapunjee of Karnataka. It is located around 35 km from Thirthahalli on the way to Udupi and is 2725 ft above sea level. Agumbe is home to the only Rainforest Research Station in Indian in the form of Agumbe Rainforest Research Station. Agumbe is also known for its abundant sights of King cobra.
There are a number of falls to see:
1. Kunchikal Falls: This falls is formed by river Varahi.
2. Barkana Falls: This falls is formed by river Seeta.
3.Onake Abbi Falls
4. Jogigundi
Route: Bangalore – Tumkur (NH-4) – Shimoga (NH-206) – Thirthahall (NH-13)
Distance: 380 km from Bangalore
Best Season: November to May
Website: http://www.agumbe.com/

9. Kodachadri: Kodachadri is located around 114 km from Shimoga city and situated above 1411 ft above sea level. Kodachadri is very popular with trekkers. The steep rising hill pose a challenge to trekkers. I advise one should have certain experience in trekking to try trekking here. It is beautiful hill covered with lush green forest and gives panoramic view. One can hire a jeep to the hill or go for shared one.

10. Kundadri: On the way to Agumbe from Thirthahalli, 9 kms from Guddekeri near Begar you can find Kundadri hill. A adventurous place for trekking lovers. You can reach the hill top by tar road also but its a shaking experience if you walk up the mountain using the shortcut route. On reaching the top you can find the Parshwanath Chaityalaya, a stone structure. Kundadri hill is in fact a single gigantic monolithic rock formation with various outgrowths. A rough stone paved path leads one to the top of the hill. From the hill top you can see the twists and turns of the Thirthahalli-Agumbe road. This place is also a jain pilgrimage centre. Packing some light refreshments and moving on to ascend the hill would be a great idea.

11. Honnemaradu: Honnemaradu is a adventure sports site. Situated on the back waters of river Saravathy, it offers Kayoking, wind water surfing and various water sports. Accomodation, food and water sports equipment available on payment. It is located around 25 km from Sagar town on the way to Jog falls.
Mote: Alcohol, Gutka, Non-Veg items are not allowed.
12. Sakrebayalu Elephant Camp: Sakrebayalu Elephant Camp is located around 14 km from Shimoga city on the way to Thirthahalli. Here elephants are being trained. Also, elephants come to bath every morning and can have their playful sight bu coming here before 9 am.
13. Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary: 32Kms from Shimoga city on the way to Thirthahalli you can hear the birds tweeting. This place is picnic spot for birds migrating from far places around the world. The place is surrounded by dense lush green forest and the flow of river Tunga has created a small island which adds to the beauty. The dense trees on the island provides shelter to migrating birds. Birds like Egrets, Bellakki Cormorant, Darter, Snake bird etc immigrate from different parts of the world during may season for breeding A high platform is built on the edge of river Tunga for bird watching. Boats are available for a closer watch .
14. Guduvi Bird Sanctuary: This bird sanctuary is unique for many reasons but is the only sanctuary located in the midst of dense forest. Guduvi is one of the 5 famous bird sanctuaries of Karnataka. The place is 16 Kms from Soraba taluka of Shimoga district. This bird sanctuary is spread over an area of 73.68 Hectares. As per 1993 survey, it is told that 191 varieties of birds are found at this place. A natural lake and the trees gives shelter to this birds. Some important birds found are White Pebis, Stone Bill, Egret, Cormorant, Snake bird, Heron etc. Different birds immigrate from other parts of the world in different seasons for breeding. A platform is built for a closer look of birds.
15. Ballegavi : Ballegavi is a place of historical importance located around 21 Kms from Shikaripura taluka. This place is also known as Dakshina Kedara was the capital of Banawasi rulers in the 12th century. The place is associated with several eminent Veershaiva saints like Allama prabhu, Akka-Mahadevi, Animishayya and Ekantada Ramayya. There are remains of many temples, shrines, mastikals, viragals and nisidigals. Some important temples are Kedareshvara temple made out of soap stone and is a fine specimen of late chalukyan type, Tripurantakeshvara temple resembling the works of belur and halebedu, Prabhudeva temple is a smaller trikutchala structure, etc.

16. Keladi : was the first capital of Keladi Nayakas. The place is 6 Kms to the north of Sagar taluka. At almost the northern end of the village, there is a large courtyard which is enclosed in modern tiled verandah. In the middle of the courtyard stand 3 temples Rameshvara temple which is in the centre, Veerbhadreshvara temple which is to the right and the Parvati temple which is to the left. The Rameshvara & Veerbhadreshvara temples are a mixed pattern of hoysala & southern or Dravidian style. The Parvati temple is a small building which has old back portion built of stone and the front modern portion built of brick.. There is also a well maintained Keladi Museum, which has a collection of copper inscriptions, palm leaves and coins from Nayaka’s period.
17. Ikkeri : situated 76 Kms to the noth of Shimoga and about 3 kms to the south of Sagar taluka. The word means “Two Streets”. This place was the capital of Keladi Nayakas for some years. The walls of the city were of great extent, forming three concentric enclosures. In the citadel was the palace build of mud and timber, adorned with carvings and false guildings. The only vestige of the former greatness of ikkeri is the temple of Aghoreshvara, a large and well proportioned stone-building, constructed in a mixed style with a unique conception.
18. Koodali : 16 Kms from Shimoga , a place where rivers Tunga and Bhadra embrace and flow together from here, hence the name Koodali. A cultural place with rich heritage and temples around. It has a noted Smartha Monastery stated to have been founded in the 16th century by Jagadguru Narsimha Bharathi Swamigalu of Sringeri. Within the premises of the matha, there are shrines of Sharadamba and Shankaracharya. Outside ,there are two temples of hoysala times dedicated to Rameshvara and Narasimha. Koodali is also known as Varanasi of the south, it is home to Rushyashrama, Brahmeshwara, Narasimha and Rameshwara temples. The 600 years old mutt of Shankaracharya still stands with inscriptions of Hoysala and Okkeri Kings.
19. Chandragutti : situated in between Soraba taluka and Siddapura. The histrolical place and pilgrimage centre of Renukamba. The place was earlier known as Chandragupta Pura, Chandragutti pete, Gutti pete. 16 Kms from Soraba taluka, 848 mtrs above mean sea level on a rocky mountain bed one can find this place.
20. Humcha : 54 kms from Shimoga city is a renowned Jain Pilgrimage centre. The main attraction of Humcha is the Padmavathi Amma’s temple. The Panchakuta Basadi (Jain temple) of 10th & 11th Century and Jain Mutt are other places of interest.

21. Bhadravathi : The Lakshminarsimha temple, built by the Hoysalas in the heart of the town and the Rameshwara temple built on the banks of the river Tunga attract pilgrims from all parts of Karnataka and other states. Pilgrims frequent here for darshans of a holy dip in the river. Bhadravathi is also most prominent Industrial centre in Shimoga district. The renowned Sir M Vishweshwaraiah Iron & Steel factory, The Mysore paper Mills and Sugar Factories were harbingers of Karnataka’s industrial development.
22. Nagara :A 16th century place situated 19 Kms from Shimoga. This was also known as “Beendanoor”in the 16th century. This place was also capital of Keladi rulers and later on was captured by Hyder Ali. Other places of interest are Shivappanaika palace, Neelakenteshwara temple, Devagana tank and Gudde Venkataramana Swamy temple.
23. Bandalike : 35 Kms to the north of Shikaripura, a place famous for basadis and temples is Bandalika. Here you can find sculptures and writtings of Rastrakutas and Kadambas period. Other places of interest are Shantinath basadi, Sahasralinga Temple and Someshwara threemurthy temples.
24. Shivappa Naik Palace :Situated on the banks of river tunga in the busy lanes of Shimoga city. A 16th century place built by Shivappa naik of Keladi. A good architectual piece built with rose wood. The palace is equipped with museum which has several interesting and rare archaeological collections of stone carvings and antiques of Keladi period. Recovered idols of Hoysala and Chalukya period from the early 16th century to late 18th century are displayed here.
25. Saint Thomas Church : Situated in the heart of city. The church renovated and said to be second largest church in India with an area of 18000 square feet area . Also equipped with an prayer hall with an capacity to hold 5000 people at a time.
Other Places of Interest :
Kanoor fort : situated in the dense forest 50 kms from Jogfalls on the way to bhatkal. This Fort of Keladi dynasty was constructed by Kari Maneesena Rani Abbaka devi ( Spices queen).
Kavaledurga: 5056 ft above sea level is this magnificent fort on the hill. It is 16 Kms from Thirthahalli.

Kubetoor: 25 Kms from Sorab is Kubetoor, has several old temples known for their architectural splendour, though now in a dilapidated condition it still exemplifies the aesthetic sense of the dynasties that reigned. The Veerabhadra and Durgi are worth a visit. The Kedarashewara Temple is a Chalukyan architectural showpiece.
Talagunda: 5 Kms from Balligave lies Talagunda. Several ancient inscriptions are found here. The Pranseshwara temple is a must see. To the east of Talagunda is “Prabhudeva Gaddige”.
Heggadu : 8 Kms from sagar, a small village known for its Non-Government Drama training institute called NEENASAM initiated by K.V.Subanna. The institute is well equipped with an indoor auditorium known as ‘Dr. Shivarama Karantha Rangamandira’. Regular workshops and training sessions, finds the place populated by renowned artists from all over the country.
Around Shimoga city : Ganapathi Devasthana located in Ramanna Shreste Park , Basaveshwar Temple located in Gandhi Bazar, Marikamba Devasthana , Kannika Parmeshwari etc are other temples located within the city limits. And it is said that there are 21 or more Ganapathi devasthanas around shimoga city.
Koodli is the place where two rivers, the Tunga River and Bhadra River, meet to give rise to the Tungabhadra River.
# Kaveladurga is a trekking spot around 80 km from Shimoga.A fort built on the hill top and the enchanting view of the western ghats can be seen from this place.
# Mrugavadhe lies in thirthahalli taluk and is famous for its Mallikarjuna temple and its scenic beauty.
# Sigandhooru is 108 km from Shimoga in Sagar taluk.This place is famous for Sigandhoor sridevi temple and to reach this place one has to go in launch(Due to backwaters of sharavathi river) run by the state government.
# Sringeri is 105 km from shimoga.This place is famous for the Sharadha temple and sringeri mutt.
In Shimoga:
Gandhi park with aquarium, Guddekal temple, Kote anjeneya temple, Bheemeshwara temple, Mailareshwara temple, Raamanna Shreshti park Ganesha Temple, Ravindra Nagar Prasanna Ganesha Temple,Laxmi temple(vinobanagar) Shankar Mutt are notable ones and Basaveshwara temple in gandhi bazaar, Shivalaya beside veerashaiva kalyana mantapa, veerabhadreshwara temple.

Gajanur dam

2009-11-09T23:10:00.000-08:00

Gajanur is a village 12 km from Shivamogga in the Shivamogga District of Karnataka, India. The Tunga River flows through the village. Gajanur is well known for the dam built across the river. 1KM from Gajanur there is place called "Sakkarebaylu" which is an elephant training camp run by the government of India. located on the banks of the Tunga river.It is 15 KM from "Mandagadde" bird life century. There is a JNV, Gajanur (JVNG) boarding school near Gajanur. JNVG is funded by the Indian Ministry of Human Resources Development

Birth Place of river Sharavathi

2009-11-09T23:02:00.000-08:00

The Sharavathi is a river flowing through Karnataka state, India. The river originates at Ambuthirtha in Thirthahalli taluk, flows north-west through the Western Ghats forming the Jog Falls before joining the Arabian Sea at Honavar.

The hydroelectric power plants, Mahatma Gandhi Hydroelectric Power Station and the Sharavati Valley Project, are built on this river. These form a significant portion of the electricity supply for the state of Karnataka in India.

The Sharavathi river basin is rich in biodiversity. In a survey conducted in the basin, 23 amphibians belonging to the families of Bufonidae, Ichthyophiidae, Microhylidae, Ranidae and Rhacophoridae were recorded. Out of these 23 amphibians, 15 species are endemic to the Western Ghats.

Sanskrit speaking village of shimoga

2009-11-08T21:28:00.000-08:00

Scholars all: A new generation grows up speaking Sanskrit.

A first-timer would love to classify Mathur, about 10 km from Shimoga in Karnataka, as yet another “sleepy village with lush green fields’. But, there is more to this village than stately arecanut farms, winding roads and friendly people. For more than 25 years now, the village has been in the forefront of a movement to keep spoken Sanskrit alive. And, you notice the difference from the minute you step into the village.

http://www.hindu.com/mag/2008/03/02/stories/2008030250200800.htm

“Suprabhatam!” greets M.B. Srinidhi, Karnataka South Secretary, Samskruta Bharathi. He is one of those spearheading the spoken Sanskrit movement. And, when he breaks into Sanskrit with spontaneous ease, you know he is not speaking just for effect “Tvam Kutra Gacchati?” (Where are you going?), he asks a fellow villager. “Aham Gramam Gachchami,” (I am going to the village) he replies. “Saavadhanena Gacchati,” (Be careful!) wishes Srinidhi before walking us around the village, home to over 3,000 people.

Tradition-bound

There is a slight drizzle in the air. But that does not deter the many scholars in the area from heading to the temple, a jar of holy water in hand. En route, Srinidhi happily converses with a two-year-old in Sanskrit, and she lisps back one-word replies without a second thought.

The seed for change was sown in 1982, when the organisation got together a 10-day programme to teach the villagers spoken Sanskrit. And, people in this primarily agricultural society eagerly took part in the unique experiment. Now, Sanskrit has become the primary tongue for many of the residents. In the local Sharada Vilasa High School, Sanskrit is compulsory till Class VII. It is the first language from Classes VIII to X. So, the present generation too has learnt to speak it. And, it is not as if the village has not kept in touch with modernity. More than 150 of its young men and women are in IT and work outside. But, they have managed to retain their core values, says Srinidhi.

The routine that has been absorbed by most minds from childhood may be a reason for this. Most of the villagers wake up at 4.30 a.m., bathe in the river, perform their daily puja and then tend to the fields rich with paddy and arecanut. The evenings are devoted to reciting the Vedas and other prayers.

Sanathkumara, another scholar, who has done his doctorate in ancient Hindu law, says the values learnt at home are not forgotten easily. Which is why Srinidhi is sure that the forthcoming marriage of a girl brought up in London to a local boy working in Bangalore will be a success. Was it easier following the cause because they did not have to worry about bringing food to the table? “Yes. The fields have helped. But, what has really helped is the support our women give us at home,” he says.

Linguistic heritage

This village and the neighbouring Hosahalli are mainly populated by Sanketis, who speak Sanskrit at home. And, it is not just them who speak the language. The village has a fair share of people from other communities, and all of them are exposed to Sanskrit. Local teachers attribute the fluency to the dedication with which a “new language’ was learnt. Take Keerthana, Srinidhi’s daughter. She uttered her first word in Sanskrit when she was just two. And, though all she said was “maastu” (no), her father was delighted. “I like speaking in Sanskrit. It is part of my heritage, and I think we should not let it perish,” she states. Part of the reason for such devotion to the language may be that her father has made it a point to speak to her only in Sanskrit.

And, surprisingly, the onslaught of television has not made a huge dent in the kids’ enthusiasm. You believe Ashwathanarayana Avadhani, headmaster of Samskruta Patshala, when he says that he and Girish T.N., the Sanskrit teacher, drive this movement in the school. They say kids pick up the language best when taught at home by their mothers. The second best method is teaching employing gestures, and the question-answer mode.

Does the present generation not question these beliefs and practices? “They do. But, we teach them to understand the faith, and not question it. You try and find out why, but don’t let go of something because you don’t understand it,” says M.B. Bhanuprakash, 52, another resident.

Courtesy: https://www.samskritabharati.org/sb/20080305101/mathur-karnataka-a-samskrita-graamam

History of shimoga

2009-11-05T23:53:00.000-08:00

History:

Shimoga has a natural history of about 2000 years. People lived here even before the pre-historic period. This fact is evident from the occurrence of the Neolithic (c.1700-800BC) and from the Iron Age Megalithic (c.900BC, 1st century AD) as well as the Early Historical (c.3rd century BC-2nd century AD) cultural remains traced in 1996 in Guddemaradi, about 2 kms. from Shimoga City.

The earliest reference to the name of this town, i.e., Shimoga is found in an inscription of 1079 AD from a nearby village Tattekere. In an inscription of 1121 AD, Mandli, a part of Shimoga town is described as a beautiful town of 4th century AD.

Jainism flourished here from 10th to 13th century AD. Later the city was under the Hoysalas (1000 to 1346 AD) and Keladi Nayakas (1500 to 1763 AD) till it was included in the old Mysore State.

According too "Thungabhadra Mahatmyam" Maharshi Durvasa performed penance here. The name of the city Shimoga (now Shivamogga) is derived from the Kamandalu (i.e. moga in vernacular Kannada) of this Rishi, containing the sweet liquid obtained by squeezing the tender green grass i.e. Shimoga as exclaimed by cowherds who tasted it.

Shimoga is a colorful district with attractive landscape, waterfalls, Green Forests, River Valleys and beautiful fields. The district is situated in the center of karnataka. The Rivers, Waterfalls and Hill stations in the district are famous in the Country. Tunga, Bhadra, Sharavathi, Varada and Kumadvathi rivers have made this district a rice bowl in the state. There are many places of architectural splendor in the district. Kadambas, Gangas, Chalukyas, Rastrakutas and Vijayanagar Kings ruled over this region. The Keladi Nayakas was the most important rule among the ruling families, which held high the roach of Hindu culture. Shimoga made the name in all over the world, because of having a falls called Jog Falls having a world record height of 900feet and one more attraction is of Sacred Heart Cathedral Church in Shimoga, it is the second tallest church in India, with a height of 180 feet.

The region has a long and colorful history dating back to the 3rd century A.D when it was controlled by the Satavahana dynasty. In the 6th century it was a part of the empire of the Chalukyas of Badami. In the 7th century it was under the rule of a Jaina chieftain, Santara Deva. From the Rashtrakutas who ruled in the next century, the region passed into the hands of the Hoysalas in the 11th century and then became part of the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th century. Around the beginning of the 16th century, the Keladi Nayakas took over the area and remained in control till 1763 when Hyder Ali defeated them and their kingdom was annexed to Mysore. Hyder Ali, who had been a General in the Royal Army of the Wodeyars, began to regard the defeated kingdom as his own and spoke of it as the foundation of his subsequent glory. It was only in 1799, after the battle of Srirangapatna when the British defeated Hyder Ali’s son Tipu Sultan, that the rule of the Wodeyars was re-established. The history of the district then shares the history of the Rest of India in its struggle against British.

General Information:

Shimoga, one of the nineteen districts of the Karnataka State, is situated roughly in the mid-south-western part of the State. It had an eventful history and has rich cultural traditions. It is bestowed with abundant natural resources. The western area of the district consists of a mountainous terrain, while on the eastern side, there is a striking transition from malnad and semi-malnad to maidan. The western part is replete with fascinating natural beauty, being clothed with dense tropical forests stimulated by heavy rainfall. The eastern area consists of an open country with some fine lakes and stony making this part an eye-catching one.

Natural Divisions:

The greater part of the district lies in the malnad; it is the area all to the west of a line drawn from Shikaripur to Gajanur (the latter in Shimoga taluk). The eastern portion lies in the maidan region (bailu-seeme) which is an open country. While the Tirthahalli, Hosanagar, Sagar and Sorab taluks come under the malnad, the taluks of Shikaripur, Shimoga and Bhadravati form a semi-malnad area. The Channagiri and Honnali taluks lie in the maidan region. The western portion with its tropical forests and mountain wilds presents superbly enhanting natural scenes. "The view from the head of the descent to the falls of Gerusoppa is probably one of the choicest bits of scenery in the world". There are three ghats, namely, the Agumbe ghat in Tirthahalli taluk and the Hulikal and Kollur ghats in Hosanagar taluk. They provide outlets through the picturesque hill country down to South Kanara.

The features of the open country are the absence of rich forests and far less rainfall than in the malnad region; but there are several picturesque spots like those around Shantisagar (Sulekere) lake, river valley and stony hills which have their own charm.

Tourist places near shimoga

2009-11-05T23:41:00.000-08:00

Shimoga
shimoga is locally called as shiva- mogga. The name shimoga is derived from the term shiva-mukha, literally meaning "Face of Shiva". Shimoga District is a part of naturally rich Malnad region of Karnataka. Shimoga is a true picture of nature's bounts- landscopes dotted with waterfalls, swaying palms and lush paddy fields make picturesque locales, shimoga is 273 Kms southwest of Bangalore.
Make your Tour to Shimoga Memorable by visiting these famous tourist near shimoga.

Tyarekoppa Lion Safari :
started in 1988, this lion safari is a ideal picnic spot, situated 10 km, from shimoga. You can sight a variety of Lions, Tigers, cheetah, Bear, Deer, and exotic Migratory Birds here.
Kadachadri :
This is the highest peak in shimoga District. kadachadri is around 120 km from shimoga this beautiful hill station is nestled in the western Ghats.
Achakanya Falls
10 kms from Thirthahalli on the way to Hosanagar near Aralsuruli you can find river Sharavathi takes a spectacular leap here to form this wanderful falls.
Tunga Dam
10 kms from shimoga city on the way to thirthahalli you can find a place called Gajanur.
Linganmakki Dam
6 kms from Jogfalls. This dam is constructed across river sharavati. The height of the Linganmakki dam is 1819 feet above sea level.
Shivappa Naik Palace
This palace is situated on the banks of river tunga in the busy lanes of shimoga city. This palace was built by shivappa naik of Keladi in 16th century.
Sakrebayalu Elephant Camp
Located 14km from shimoga, you can catch a glimpse of several elephants playing in the waters, by getting into this camp before 9am.
keladi
The first capital of Keladi Nayakas, it has a large courtyard decked with the Rameshvara temple, Veerbhadreshvarb temble, and the Parvathi temple.
Agumbe
This spectacular sunset point is also known as the Cheeranapunji of south india as it receives the highest rainfall in South india. This Picturesque landscope is renowned for it's glorious Sunset.
Jog Falls
one of the highest waterfalls in india, jogfalls is situated 100 Km from Shimoga It is formed by the sharvathi River, Gashing down from a height of 253 meters.
Ballegavi
Also known as Dakshina kedara, there are some important temples here like the Kedareshwara temple, Tripurantakeshvara temple, prabhudeva temple, etc...
Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary
Situated 32km from shimoga, this is a picnic spot set amidst. Lush green forest where birds migrate from far-off places.

Yellamavasye Jatre

2009-11-05T22:34:00.000-08:00

Thirthahalli Taluk in Shimoga District of Karnataka is the home of many temples and Mutts of different faiths. Thirthahalli town houses an ancient and famous temple whose presiding deity is Lord Rameshwara. This temple is built of stone and stands on a high place on the bank of the river Tunga which flows majestically through this town. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple has the “Mood Linga ,” which is said to have been installed by Sage Parashurama. Outside the sanctum sanctorum there are idols of Durga and Ganapathy. This temple is a major Mujrai temple of this Taluk.

Legend has it that Sage Jamadagni married Renuka, a woman of great chastity and got five sons from her. Once Renuka went to the river for bathing and there saw Chitraratha, a Gandharva. She was fascinated by him and stayed there for some more time. It was late when she returned to the ashram. Jamadagni by his divine sight could know what had happened. He became furious and asked his four sons one by one to chop off Renuka’s head. But the sons were not ready to do so. Jamadagni asked Parashurama to chop off Renuka’s head. Fearing the displeasure of his father, Parashurama immediately carried out his father’s order. Jamadagni was highly pleased and asked Parashurama to pray for any boon. Parashurama prayed his father to bring his mother back to life, to make her never to recall that incident, to liberate his brothers from the curse and give up his anger, Jamadagni agreed to all his requests.

Then Parashurama undertook a long pilgrimage to wash off the blood stains on his Parashu (axe). He dipped his Parashu in many holy rivers. Still the bloodstain of the size of sesame remained. At last he came to this place on the New moon day of Margashira month and washed his Parashu in the river Tunga. What a miracle! Even the last trace of the bloodstain disappeared. The spot where he washed his Parashu obtained holiness and came to be called Ramatheertha.

Since then every year on the New Moon Day of Margashira thousands of devotees coming from places far and near take a dip in Ramatheertha very early in the morning braving the biting cold. On Padya, the first day of Pushya Masa, there is a car festival of Rameshwara. The idol of Sri Rameshwara is taken in a procession in a decorated chariot. On Bidige, the second day of Pushya Masa, Teppotsava is help for Sri Rameshwara in the river Tunga. These three days go by the name “Yellamavasye Jatra.”

There is also another legend which says that Parashurama traveled through the length and breadth of the country to destroy the enemies of mankind. Afterwards for the salvation of those who died at his hands he gave Theertharajapura. “Yellamavasya” is the celebration of that event.

Around Ramatheertha there are Chakratheertha, Shankatheertha, Gadatheertha and Padmatheertha. Near Ramatheertha, there is a stone mantap called “Rama Mantapa.” In front of this mantap there is a stone baser. Between Ramatheertha and Chakratheertha there is “Jogigudda” with a cave in it. It is said that Jogis (Wandering Ascetics) used to sit in this cave and meditate. Originally Thirthahalli was called Theerthahvali or Theertharajapura.

Opposite to Rameshwara there are two Agrahars 1) Sadashiva Agrahara. 2) Vyasarayana Agrahara. (Somashekara Agrahara) In Vyasarayana Agrahara there are two stone temples. One is Ramachandra Devaru Temple and the other is Sri Vittal Temple. Sri Ramachandra Devara temple is situated on the banks of the river Tunga in Somashekara Agrahara in Thirthahalli. It was a private Institution. The temple was constructed and dedicated to Sri Ramachandra by Samagodu Ramappaiah probably in the 18th century. The temple was constructed by Samagodu Ramappaiah to fulfill the wish of his father Sri Thimmappaiah who had a pious wish to construct a temple and dedicate it to Sri Ramachandra. In due course the temple came to be called Sri Kodandarama Temple. Later it was taken over by the Mujrai Department. Later since the construction of the temple, the descendants of Thimmappaiah have been worshipping in the temple and conducting other usual ceremonies.

Sri Vittal Temple. This temple was built by one Damarasa Pai, who was a minister during the rule of Ikkeri and Keladi Kings in the 15th Century. Since then the descendants of Damarasa Pai have been conducting poojas and other ceremonies in the temple. At present, Sri Raghavendra Bhat and his brothers are performing poojas in the temple.

Important places of Thirthahalli Taluk

2009-07-31T01:40:00.000-07:00

Thirthahalli

Thirthahalli is a taluk head quarters, amidst dense forest and is about 65 Kms. from Shimoga Rameshwara Temple is located on the bank of river Tunga and attracts tourist and pilgrims for holy bath during the month of January every year.

Agumbe

Agumbe is one of the most scenic places on the Western Ghats of the Southern India. Added to the lush green view all around, the attractions for the visitors is the spectacular sunset and vast opportunities it offers to the trekkers.

If you are looking for a peaceful break for a few days from the hectic city life, away from the crowded and commercialized attractions, then this is the place for you.

Agumbe is among the places that receive high rainfall and is rightly called the Cherrapunji of South India.

Kuppalli

This situated at a distance of about 16 Kms. east of Thirthahalli and 81 Kms. from Shimoga. This is fascinating locality which is the birth place of the great poet "KUVEMPU". There is the famous spot here know as Kavishilla where where the poet in his young days used it sit and contemplate.

Kavaledurga

Kavaledurga is at a distance of 16 Kms. from Thirthahalli. It is 5056' above the sea level . there is a fort on the hill.

Kundadri

A great place for trekking. Is on the way from Theerthalli to Masthikatte at a distance of about 12 km from Theerthalli. A Jain temple is perched on top of the hill. The view from the top the hill is really spellbinding. Kundadri hill is in fact a single gigantic monolithic rock formation with various outgrowths. A rough stone paved path leads one to the top of the hill. Packing some light refreshments and moving on to ascend the hill would be really a great idea.