What’s so special? Have you ever witnessed a vehicle of God receiving more reverence than the deity itself? This unusual occurrence is seen at the Bull Temple in Basavanagudi, where the meticulously carved monolithic Bull captures all eyes.

Mythology:

India abounds in mythology and folktales. According to the lore of the Bull Temple, eons ago, a menacing bull wreaked havoc in the fields of Basavanagudi, destroying crops. The distressed farmers appealed to Lord Shiva, the bull's owner. Upon hearing their grievances, Lord Shiva instructed them to build a temple to honour the bull. Consequently, a colossal boulder was sculpted into a lifelike Bull, and a temple was constructed in its honour. Additionally, a metallic plate was affixed to the bull’s head to restrain its growth.

Peculiarity:

This temple uniquely features the Lord’s mount at the forefront. Aside from the Bull, there are also idols of God Surya and Goddess Chandra. It is believed that the river Vrishabhavathi originates at the footstep of Lord Surya. This temple radiates joy continuously.

Uniqueness:

During the annual Kadalekai Parishe (groundnut fair), local farmers offer their first harvest of groundnuts to Nandi, The Bull, expressing their gratitude. This festival draws people nationwide to celebrate. Architecturally, the temple is a classic example of Dravidian design, housing a 15-foot tall Bull statue—one of the largest sculpted from a single granite boulder.

Adjacent to the Bull Temple is the enigmatic Ganesha Temple, where the deity is crafted from 110 kg of butter, astonishingly never melting. Every four years, this butter is distributed among the devotees, and a new idol is consecrated.

Festivals:

The well-known Groundnut Festival occurs every November or December. Other significant celebrations include Maha Shivaratri and Pradosham.

Nearby Temples:

Other notable temples nearby include Dodda Ganapathi Temple, Anjaneya Temple, and Saibaba Temple.

How To Reach Bull Temple:

Bus: The temple is accessible from Bangalore; local buses from Bangalore bus station will take you there.

Train: The nearest railway station is in Bangalore, connecting trains from across India.

Airport: From Bangalore International Airport, which accommodates both national and international flights, taxis are readily available to the temple.

FAQ:

What is the Bull Temple in Basavanagudi famous for?

The Bull Temple is renowned for its meticulously carved monolithic Bull statue, which receives more reverence than the deity itself. This 15-foot-tall statue is one of the largest sculpted from a single granite boulder, making it a unique attraction.

What is the mythology behind the Bull Temple?

According to local lore, a bull that was destroying crops in Basavanagudi was honored with a temple after farmers prayed to Lord Shiva for help. Lord Shiva instructed the farmers to build the temple, leading to the creation of the colossal Bull statue to prevent further destruction.

What makes the Bull Temple unique?

The temple is unique as it features the Lord’s mount, the Bull, prominently at the forefront. Additionally, it hosts idols of God Surya and Goddess Chandra, with the river Vrishabhavathi believed to originate at Lord Surya’s footstep. The temple's architecture is a classic example of Dravidian design.

What festivals are celebrated at the Bull Temple?

The annual Kadalekai Parishe (groundnut fair) is a significant event where farmers offer their first harvest of groundnuts to Nandi, the Bull. Other important festivals include Maha Shivaratri and Pradosham, drawing devotees from across the nation.

How can I reach the Bull Temple in Basavanagudi?

The Bull Temple is accessible by local buses from Bangalore bus station. The nearest railway station is in Bangalore, connecting trains from various parts of India. Additionally, taxis are readily available from Bangalore International Airport, which serves both national and international flights.