Bull temple

About Bull temple

Originating from a Tamil root, Nandi is extracted from the word 'Nandhu' which in general English means 'to flourish'. Believed to be the 'Vahana' (mount) of the mighty Hindu Lord Shankara as per the epics of the Hindu Mythology, the sacred Nandi has been a very loyal and devoted worshipper of the lord. Nandi is worshipped at this beautiful little temple in Bengaluru built in the 1530s with strange beliefs but the utmost respect. 

The Famous Temple

The foundation of this one among the oldest temple structures of Bengaluru was kept by a man named Kempegowda in the 16th century. However, the front structure of the sacred temple beautifully visible towards the top was added to it in the 20th century. Several miniature idols of multiple Hindu lords and motifs can be identified in the tall design moulded in the Dravidian style which makes it one of the finest places to visit in Bangalore. The beautiful granite carved idol of Nandi with over four metres of height and over six metres of length is built inside the temple has darkened a lot over time. 

Legends

The legends believe that a local farmer's groundnut crop was being affected by an uncontrolled Bull called 'Nandi'. Frustrated by it, the farmer hit it in return. Farmer's strong blow miraculously converted the Bull into a structure of stone. The structure of the stone started growing. Following Lord Shankara's advice, the farmer placed a buried Trishul over its head to stop it from continuously growing in size. The respect bestowed upon the demi-god by creating its worshipping house calmed its wrath eventually. This strange story has been doing rounds in Bangalore households ever since the inception of the temple.

Major Attractions

In order to pay their respects and express gratitude towards the inception of the temple, the Basavanagudi farmers offer their prime harvest to the Bull Lord. A special fest is organized which is a year-end affair called the 'Kadale Kayi' translated as the Groundnut Fair. The divine Bull sculpture is coated with loads of butter which smoothens and darkens the idol. Another notable thing here is the 17th-century inscription claiming the inception of the Vrishabhavathi stream. This signifies an outstanding feature and an essential inclusion for your Bangalore Tour Packages.

How to Reach

It takes less than half an hour to reach the temple from the Railway station. The temple distance from the Bus stand named after the temple itself is merely 5 minutes away which can be easily covered by public transport.