Madikeri: The new book by artist and author Shri B. K. Ganesh Rai titled Historical Illustrated Story Book of Madikeri Sri Omkareshwara Temple was formally released on Monday, January 5, 2026, at the sanctum of Sri Omkareshwara Temple, amid traditional pooja rituals and ceremonies.
Book Release Ceremony
The illustrated story book was released by Shri Appaneravanda Chummi Devayya, President of the Sri Omkareshwara Temple Managing Committee, who extended his best wishes on the occasion. Mr. Konganda S. Devaiah, former President of the City Municipal Corporation, Madikeri, and Past President of the Sri Omkareshwara Temple, was present as the Guest of Honour.
Temple History in Illustrated Form
Built in 1820 by Shri Lingarajendra Wodeyar II of the Haleri dynasty, the Sri Omkareshwara Temple stands as a prominent heritage monument of Kodagu. Conceptualised by Kodagu-based artist Shri B. K. Ganesh Rai and designed using digital graphics, the book vividly narrates the history of the Haleri royal family, the Madikeri palace, and the background of the temple’s construction through colourful illustrations. The book has been published in both Kannada and English.
Part of an Ongoing Creative Effort
Earlier, the digital graphic illustrated story of Kodagu’s clan deity Sri Kaveri Matha was released in October on the occasion of Kaveri Tula Sankramana in Kannada, English, Arebhashe and Tamil. The Sri Omkareshwara Temple illustrated book is the 27th publication of Madikeri-based Aishwarya Creations.
Availability
The Historical Illustrated Story Book of Madikeri Sri Omkareshwara Temple will be available for purchase at the Sri Omkareshwara Temple, Madikeri, and at leading bookshops.