March 27, 2024

Ancient History?of Mookambika Temple Kollur

Jyothis residency

NO - 27/5, Beside Sri
Mookambika Temple, Kollur,
Udupi Dist, Karnataka

Nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Western Ghats, the Mookambika Temple stands as a timeless testament to divine grace and historical significance. Reaching the temple is convenient from the states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. Whether by train or bus, pilgrims and visitors can easily access the temple, which is approximately 135 kilometers away from Mangalore. Every year, thousands of devotees from various corners of India make a pilgrimage to visit the sacred Kollur Mookambika Temple. This temple holds a rich history and significance that captivates the hearts of those who seek spiritual solace.

Origin of Mookambika Temple Kollur

Numerous beliefs surround the temple's origin, with one prominent narrative suggesting that Adi Shankara played a pivotal role. According to this belief, Adi Shankara, in his profound devotion to Goddess Saraswati, installed the shrine of Mookambika Devi. Through intense worship, he invoked the presence of the goddess, and in response to his unwavering dedication, Goddess Saraswati consented to accompany Adi Shankara to Kerala.

The goddess consented to accompany Adi Shankara on one condition: he must not glance back to check whether she is following him. Any attempt to verify her presence by turning back would result in the goddess halting her journey.

During the journey, when Shankara sensed an absence of Goddess Saraswati, he succumbed to the temptation to look back and reassure himself of her presence. True to the agreed condition, Goddess Saraswati halted her journey and established herself at that very spot. After earnestly beseeching and pleading, Adi Shankara managed to convince the goddess to compromise. She agreed to reside at the Chottanikkara Temple in the mornings and return to the Mookambika Devi Temple by noon as per their arrangement.

The Kodachadri Hill is home to significant sites like Chitramoolam and Ambavanam, where legend has it that Adi Shankara engaged in meditation. The temple enjoyed patronage from ancient Hindu kings, and within its sacred walls lie precious treasures that echo a prosperous and illustrious past.

Once the state temple for the Nagara or Bednore Rajas, this sacred site received numerous jewels, now embellishing the idol, as gifts from both the Rajas and their superiors in Vijayanagara. Unfortunately, during the Maratha raids in the 18th century, these marauders are thought to have plundered treasures worth crores of rupees in gold, silver, and gems from the temple.

There's a story explaining why the temple got the name Mookambika. Long ago, in the town of Kollur, there was a saint named Kola Maharshi who spent his days in deep meditation. However, his peaceful meditation was interrupted by a troublesome demon named Mookasura. This demon caused a lot of disturbance and trouble for the saint.

In response to the saint's distress, the powerful Goddess Adhi Prashakthi appeared before the demon. A fierce battle ensued, and the goddess defeated the demon Mookasura, putting an end to the disturbance. Because the goddess triumphed over the demon whose name was Mookasura, people started calling her Mookambika, symbolizing her victory over the troublesome force.

The history of the Mookambika Temple is extensive, leaving much yet to be unraveled and understood.