Koodli Sangam

The two mighty rivers of Karnataka join at Koodli which is 16 kms from Shimoga. Tunga flows from the western ghat from northwest direction and Bhadra from southwest. The industrial belt has added to the pollution of Bhadra river. Tunga is relavtively cleaner.

Rameshwara temple is built most probably built during the Chalukyan era, considering the absence of architectural grandeur. Hoysala symbol has been subsequently incorporated to give a touch of the era. Subsequently the Ikkeri Nayaks too have contributed to the renovation of this temple. The ASI has beautifully landscaped the premises to give it a neat look.

HISTORY


There are three temples located in Koodli and they are Rameswara, Brahmaeswara and Narasimha temples. The old inscriptions found at Brahmaeswara temple refers to a donation made by king of Ayodhya to the temple maintainence. The Sringeri Mutt has copper inscription of grant made by Kadamba king Purandara Raya in 1075 saka era. Further Hoysala king Veera Ballal III donated on the occasion of return of his captive son from Delhi by Mohammadian. Further grants were made to the temple by Vijaynagar Emperors. However in 1791 Marathas under Parusuram Bhau looted and burnt the temple. They were threatened to be ex-communicated from Hindu religion by the Mutt swamiji and they made amends by seeking pardon.



On the lawns a collapsed structure houses the Shiv Linga which is oddly shaped. The priest confirms that it was obtained from the river bed and installed. Adjescent to this structure one has a big Ashwat tree wherein snake gods are worshipped.

In front of Rameshwara temple there is another temple known as Chintamani Narashimaswamy temple. The temple architecture reminds one of the Chola kingdom style but less impressive. Below the steps adjescent to the river bed there is a small temple at the confluence point of Tunga and bhadra.

Behind the chintamani temple there is Brindavan, which seems to be samadi place of priests who have passed away. It is adorned with Tulsi enclosure and is worshipped by priests even today. Entry to non-brahmins seems to be restricted.

Opp to Chintamani temple remaining idols have been strewn around with cattles grazing around. It is ideal for antique hunters to grab the same and make some quick buck. I hope the state Museum takes possession of these idols and install them in one of the museum.

There are two Mutts in Koodli, one belongs to Advaita philosophy Shankar Mutt and other one represents Dvaita philosophy Arya Akshoya theerta Mutt. Shankar Mutt is also known as the Koodli Sringeri Mutt. It received patronage from the Wodeyars. A well maintained cows stable is undertaken by Arya Akshoya theerta Mutt.

Before entering the Koodli temple complex on the edge of the town there is another ancient temple. Even though it less visited, it gives an impression of ancient times. However all these temples have been whitewashed giving it an ugly look.

Overall the visit to Koodli gives one a feeling of religious fervor but devoid of much hassling of a crowded atmosphere.

Koodli is located on Hole-Honnur route proceeding to Chennagiri and Chitradurga. It can be approached from Bhadravathi as well as Shimoga, almost equi-distance. If one is short of time one can give this destination a go by during summer particularly