The Sharana Basaveshwara Temple is located in Gulbarga town of Karnataka and is dedicated to the eminent Hindu philosopher, teacher and saint named Basaveshwara from the 18th century. Shri Sharana Basaveshwara was a Lingayath saint known for his kayaking and dasoha. Dasoha signified “charity.” This temple, located in Karnataka, India, draws devotees from all over to pay homage to the saint’s teachings on social equality and spiritual enlightenment.

Lingayath Dasoha defined it as working hard, selflessly, and for the benefit of society. Whatever belongs to the society must be returned to the society without discrimination. Kayaka in Lingayath religion refers to the elimination of inequities in all aspects of life, including religion, spirituality, society, and the economy.

The Story Behind Sharana Basaveshwara Temple

Sharana Basaveshwara Sangamma and Malakkappa’s parents served as role models for him in his decision to break free from feudalism. He desired to serve mankind and preached what he did. He was a significant contributor to society. He wanted to end inequality and bring out the best in society. After his death, a shrine was built in his honour, complete with a Mahadasoha Peetha. The Peetha currently supports a large number of educational institutions.

History of Sharana Basaveshwara Temple

It is said that Sharana Basaweshwara’s parents, Malakappa and Sangamma, guided him down the path he chose to serve mankind. Following his death, a sacred shrine was built to commemorate his contributions to society. Sharana Basaweshwara Mahadasoha Peetha was founded later. The Peetha promotes education through its Sharana Basaveshwara Vidya Varshak Samsthe Institute.

The temple has amazing architecture, which dates back to the 12th century. The carvings have patterns of Garuda, Parrots, Flowers, and Elephants. Sharana Basaveshwara Temple is also known as Sabha mandap and consists of around 36 arches along with numerous pillars that add to the beauty of the temple.

Architecture of Sharana Basaveshwara Temple

The temple’s marvellous structure dates back to the 12th century. The carving includes images of Garuda, parrots, flowers, and elephants. The temple is also called Sabhamandapa. The temple has about 36 arches and numerous pillars, which add to its beauty.

The temple incorporates Maharastra temple architectural elements. The temple was built nearly two centuries ago. Panchaloha kalasha, a combination of five metals, can be found here. Later, during the Mughal Empire, the Nizam of Hyderabad conquered the temple.

The Sabhamantapa and the pradakshinapatha are two magnificent structures located here. The intricate carvings on the pillars and walls are the temple’s most prominent feature. The peacock carvings are the most striking among the figurines. The Peetha must recognise the seven peethadipatis. The entangled serpent sculpture adds to the temple’s elegance.

The walls feature various artists’ depictions of Sri Sharana Basaveshwara. The interior is lavishly decorated with gold and glass mirrors, and the roofs are embellished with chandlers in the Nizami style.

Facts about Sharana Basaveshwara Temple

• Sharana Basaveshwara Temple is an ancient shrine located in Kalburgi (Gulbarga) district, North-East Karnataka.
• This temple is dedicated to Sri Sharana Basaveshwara, a well-known 12th-century Lingayat saint. He was a renowned religious teacher and philosopher.
• The samadhi of Sri Sharana Basaveshwara is housed in the temple’s sanctum sanctorum. There is even a lake near the temple, which is a popular tourist destination.
• The main temple event is a historical car festival. This event will be witnessed by people all over the country and abroad.
• On this occasion, people will have a rare opportunity to see the saint’s silver plate, known as Prasada Battala. The Jatra/festival is organised to commemorate the Saint’s death anniversary.
• The temple has incredible architecture that dates back to the 12th century. The carvings feature patterns of Garudas, Parrots, Flowers, and Elephants.
• Sharana Basaveshwara Temple, also known as Sabha Mandap, is made up of approximately 36 arches and numerous pillars that add to its beauty.
• Along with the Prasada Battala, devotees will have the opportunity to see the Linga Sajjike (the cover used to keep the Linga), which is made of Sandalwood and used by Sharanabhasaveshwara.
• People, particularly farmers from the region, continue to donate a portion of their harvest to the temple in exchange for free food for pilgrims who visit the temple.

Famous Festivals In Sharana Basaveshwara Temple

Millions of people visit this temple every year to celebrate all of the festivals that are held here. Some major festivals held here are

• Annual Jatra – People from all over the country and abroad will gather at the sprawling temple complex to witness the historic car festival, crossing communal lines.
• Chariot festival – People, particularly farmers from the region, continue to donate a portion of their harvest to the temple in exchange for free food for pilgrims who visit the temple.

Best Time to Visit Sharana Basaveshwara Temple

This place is very heavenly and spiritual, and you can visit it all year. However, the best time to visit this temple is during the monsoon and winter seasons. During the monsoon season, this location receives moderate to heavy rainfall, making it appear heavenly with its greenery and bringing freshness elsewhere.

How to Reach Sharana Basaveshwara Temple

The Sharana Basaveshwara Temple is located in Gulbarga town of Karnataka and is dedicated to the eminent Hindu philosopher, teacher and saint named Basaveshwara from the 18th century.

By Air: The nearest airport to Gulbarga is Bangalore (574 km). Tourists can travel to Gulbarga by bus, taxi, or train from the airport.

By Rail: A direct train journey from Bangalore to Gulbarga takes about 10 hours. To get to the temple from the railway station, take a taxi or any other local mode of transportation.

By Road: Gulbarga is approximately 574 kilometres from Bangalore. Karnataka state transport buses travel from Bangalore to Gulbarga frequently. Sharana Basaveshwara Temple is easily accessible from Gulbarga by taxi or auto rickshaw.

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