Sri Mangaladevi Temple dedicated to Goddess Parvathi situated in the Bolar town near Hampankatta, in the heart of the city of Mangalore. Mangalore is named after this deity. This temple originated in the ninth century is very famous even to this day. Many devotees throng to the temple seeking the Mothers blessings.
History
Mahatobhara Mangaladevi has rich heritage and historical significance. Veerabahu, king of Tulunadu, was childless. He seeking the advice of Sage Bharadaraja, presented his kingdom to Bangaraja. An able successor to Veerabahu brought fame and glory to his kingdom. He dreamt that the Goddess Mangaladevi revealed to him scared remains of the holy place, where confluence of river Netravathi and river Phalguni. With sage Bharadaraja guidance Bhagaraja built the shrine of Goddess Mangaladevi and the Linga along with Dharpatra were installed.
Many years later Kundavarma, a ruler of Tulunadu, from Alupa dynasty, met the holy saints Machendranatha and Gorakanatha of Natha cult from Nepal. The place where the saints reached Mangalapura by crossing the river Nethravathi called “Gorakdandi”. The sages chose to perform their religious duties at the Sage Kapila’s Ashram(hermitage) On behest of the two sages King Kundavarma, was enlightened with the knowledge and sanctity of the holy place. From his mother he had heard the story of Vihasini and Andasura, Parashurama and the temple built by them. Thus he came to know about the shrine of Sri Mangaldevi, Dharapatra, the Linga and the renovated the shrine. Many maidens come to the shrine seeking the Mother’s blessing for a virtuous husband and good life.
Poojas
The shrine is famous for the Mangaladhara Vrata or Swayamvara Parvathi Pooja, where maidens pray for good husband, and good life and have their wishes fulfilled.
Festivals like Navarathri or Dasara are very grandly celebrated. On the Ashtami (eighth day) all weapons are worshiped. On the Mahanavami (ninth day of Dasara) Rathothsava is conducted and the procession visits the Marnamikatte.
Postal Address to the Temple:
Mahatobhara Shri Mangaladevi Temple,
Bolar, Mangalore - 575 001.
Office Phone: 0824- 425476
How to reach:
The temple is about 3 Kms to the South West of Hampankatta (heart of the Mangalore city). Many Auto rickshaws and buses ply to the temple.
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