Bidar is known as Karnataka’s crown. It has its own beauty. Many historical monuments and temples in the District enhance the richness of the State.
The Jhira Narasimha Temple, a cave shrine in Bidar is dedicated to the powerful Lord Narasimha, and also known by the names of Narasimha Zarna Temple and Jharani Narasimha Temple. Every year people flock to this temple in droves to get their wishes fulfilled. This sacred temple is located in a cave.
The Jhira Narasimha Temple is known for its beautiful architecture and is considered to be very sacred. The temple is situated in a cave where the water runs up to 300 metres. This temple is situated under the Manichoola Hill range and it opens at eight in the morning. This Temple lies a kilometre away from Bidar City. You have to wade through waist deep water to reach the feet of the deity.
The temple of Jhira Narasimha has a myth which mentions that the mighty Lord Narasimha first killed Hiranyakashipu and then proceeded to slay the demon Jalasura who was a staunch devotee of Lord Shiva. After being killed by Lord Narasimha, the demon Jalasura turned into water and started flowing down the feet of the Lord Narasimha. For this reason, people have to wade all the way through the water to reach the Lord.
Recently, arrangements were made to provide electricity and ventilation in this cave. You’ll need to take a quick bath in the water fountain located outside the Jhura Narasimha Jhira Temple.
The end of the cave houses two deities – Lord Narasimha and a Shiva Linga which the demon Jalasura had worshipped. Around eight people can stand and watch this spectacular sight as there is very little space here. Others will need to wait in the water.
People throng to this Temple because it is believed that the idol at the Narasimha Jhira Temple is a swayambhu roopam – in other words, the deity is self-manifested and very powerful. The fourth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Lord Narasimha, is half human and half lion.
