Bailur Sri Mahishamardini Temple Udupi

Bailoor Mahishamardini Temple1

The Shri Bailur Mahishamardini Temple is a revered ancient shrine dedicated to Goddess Durga, a fierce form of Shakti. It is one of the important religious centers in the Udupi district of Karnataka.

History of Bailur Sri Mahishamardini Temple

  • Antiquity: The temple is believed to date back to the 13th century. Some sources also link it to a collection of four ancient Durga temples believed to have been established by King Rama Bhoja around the central Sri Ananteshwara Temple in Udupi, placing its origin in a much older time frame, possibly as one of the 12 Shakti Peethas of Udupi.
  • Deity and Idol: The presiding deity is Goddess Mahishamardini, the slayer of the demon Mahishasura.
    • The idol is described as being about three feet in height and is made up of Balapa (a whitish pot-stone).
    • The posture of the idol depicts the Goddess in the act of slaying Mahishasura with the edge of her Trishula (trident).
  • Inscriptions: A lithograph, said to be from the 14th century, is reportedly present in the temple complex, providing historical information about the shrine.

Sevas (Rituals/Offerings) at the Bailoor Sri Mahishamardini Temple Udupi

Bailoor Mahishamardini Temple

Devotees can offer various sevas to the Goddess. While a complete, definitive list requires checking with the temple administration directly, common sevas usually include:

  • General Poojas/Archanas:
    • Mangalarathi: Waving of lights, usually a concluding ritual.
    • Kunkumarchane: Offering of kumkum (vermillion) to the Goddess while chanting her names.
    • Panchakajjaya: An offering of a special type of sweet mixture (a powder of gram, jaggery, coconut, etc.).
    • Maha Pooja: A grand, main daily worship.
    • Rathri Pooja: Night-time worship.
  • Special Rituals:
    • Ganapathi Homa: A fire ritual dedicated to Lord Ganesha, often performed for removing obstacles.
    • Chandika Homa / Shatachandika Yaga: Grand fire rituals dedicated to Goddess Durga/Chandi, performed for protection, prosperity, and spiritual liberation.
    • Panchamrutha Abhisheka: Bathing the idol with five nectars (milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar).
    • Tuppa Deepa Seve: Offering oil lamps (especially those using ghee – tuppa).

Festivals

The temple celebrates festivals with great enthusiasm, primarily those dedicated to Goddess Durga/Shakti.

  • Navaratri / Sharannavaratri Mahotsava: This is the most significant annual festival, dedicated to the nine forms of the Goddess. The temple comes alive with special daily poojas, cultural programs, and rituals over the nine days and nights.
  • Annual Festival: The temple has its annual chariot festival (Utsava), the date of which varies as per the Hindu calendar.
  • Other Auspicious Days: Special poojas are often performed on auspicious days like Fridays, Durga Ashtami, Maha Shivaratri, and other regional festivals.

How to Reach Bailoour Sri Mahishamardini Temple

Bailoor Mahishamardini Temple
Screenshot

The temple is located in Bailur (or Bailooru), in the Udupi district of Karnataka.

  • Location: Bailoor, Udupi, Karnataka, India. It is approximately 2 km from the heart of Udupi city.
  • By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (IXE), which is about 60 km away. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to Udupi.
  • By Rail: The nearest major railway station is Udupi Railway Station (UD), which is well-connected to major cities. The temple is a short distance from the station.
  • By Road:
    • From Udupi: The temple is very close to Udupi city center and can be easily reached by auto-rickshaw or local transport.
    • From Mangalore: Udupi is well-connected to Mangalore (approx. 60 km) and other cities by National Highway (NH 66). Regular state and private buses are available.

Address
Bima Nagar, Bailoor, Udupi, Karnataka 576101
Phone: 094480 26986