Bantwal: In an extraordinary event at the Jaladurgaparameshwari Temple in Anekallu Padpu, located in Karopadi village of Bantwal taluk, a Shivalinga was discovered in the temple’s river on Saturday. This spiritual find has sparked renewed reverence among the devotees of the temple, where Lord Shiva’s presence has been honoured for decades.
The Jaladurgaparameshwari Temple is believed to be the site where Jaladurga performed penance for Lord Shiva. Swami Siddha Guruji of Karur Panchamadevi Kalipalayam Sri Nandeeshwara Jnanapeetham, a spiritual leader from Tamil Nadu, visited the temple, which lies near the Kerala-Karnataka border. During a spiritual session, it was revealed that a Shivalinga might be present in the nearby stream. Acting on this guidance, Swami Siddha Guruji went to the stream in the evening, where he successfully located the sacred Shivalinga.
Historical and Spiritual Significance
O. Sham Bhat, Managing Director of Jaladurgaparameshwari Temple and Senior Advocate from Mysuru, noted the historical importance of the area. He explained that the Jogi community, linked to Nathpanth tradition, has resided here for centuries. It is believed that Machchendranath, a revered figure in Nathpanth, once worshipped in this area. Additionally, the spiritual energy in Karopadi is said to reflect the blessings of Sage Agastya.
Community Participation
The discovery drew a gathering of devotees and temple officials, including Mahendra Bhat, the temple priest; Jnanpeetham Executive Trustee Nandini Krishna Kumar; Trustee Sivaraman; Venkat; Sri Sri Mahabala Swamiji of Sri Kshetra Kaniyoor; and Mata Amratanandamayi Ashram’s representative A.P. Lalitha. Other prominent attendees included temple convenor U. Suresh Master, along with Pushparaj, Ramanna Palige, and members of the Jaladurga Bhakta Vrinda.
The finding of the Shivalinga has invigorated the temple community, with many devotees viewing it as a divine blessing.
