Udyavara (Udayapura), about 3 km away from Udupi (Rajathapeetha) was a historical town ruled by Alupa Kings. The eighth century Sri Siddhivinayaka Temple here, which is facing towards east, has a square-shaped pond in front of the main entrance, covered by steps in all four sides. The flagstaff, Mukhamantapa (portico), Pradhana Balipeetha (chief sacrificial altar), Theerthamantapa and Chaturasra Garbhagudi (sanctum sanctorum) are the best visible evidences to prove that this Temple belongs to eighth century. Since it was renovated for a number of times it is not easy to identify this Temple as one of the oldest Temples of the district.
The idol of Lord Vinayaka, which has just two arms and simple carvings, is in sitting posture. Devotees offer a unique seva for the deity called ‘Doni Panchakajjaya’ on Margashira Shuddha Chowthi every year. Residents of Nidambur Magane (consisting on eight villages) offer Navadhanya Panchakajjaya Seva once in a year. The tradition of offering Apoopa (Appam) in Mithuna Masa is also continued without fail.
Annual festival is celebrated for 12 days starting from the first day of Kumbha Masa. Maha Rathothsava takes place on the eighth day, followed by Avabhrutha Snana (the bath at the conclusion of a religious sacrifice) on the next day, where devotees carry the Bali Murthy (idol used in festive procession) on the chariot to Kadekar pond for offering a holy bath to the idol. ‘Kola’ for Kalkuda and Varthe (Parivara Daivas) takes place on the last two days.
We can also find the vestiges of Sri Mahishamardini shrine. Now the idol is preserved at Govinda Pai Research Centre, Udupi. The Siddharasa Mahalingeshwara Temple is also under the threat of being collapsed.
Annual Celebrations and Festivals at Mahathobhara Shri Siddhivinayaka Temple in Udyavara
The Mahathobhara Shri Siddhivinayaka Temple in Udyavara, being one of the most prominent temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha in the Udupi region, celebrates its festivals with great fervour and devotion.
- Ganesha Chaturthi (Vinayaka Chaturthi)
This is the most significant annual festival, celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesha.
Significance: The temple witnesses huge crowds, with special, elaborate rituals performed throughout the day, including various Homams (fire rituals) and cultural programmes.
Period: Usually falls in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada (August or September).
- Sankashtahara Chaturthi (Sankashti)
This is a monthly observance, particularly important at a Ganesha temple.
Significance: Devotees observe a fast and offer prayers in the evening upon sighting the moon. Special poojas are performed every month on this auspicious day, which is dedicated to overcoming obstacles (sankashta).
- Annual Jathra (Temple Festival)
A specific annual festival (Jathra or Utsava) is held, which typically includes:
Rathotsava (Chariot Festival): The processional idol of the deity is taken out in a beautifully decorated chariot.
Special Rituals: Various ancient and traditional rituals are performed over several days, drawing devotees from the entire coastal region.
- Other Auspicious Days
Besides the main festivals, special rituals and increased footfall are observed every Tuesday and Friday, which are considered particularly auspicious for worshipping Lord Ganesha.
Seva Offerings and Rituals at Shri Siddhivinayaka Temple, Udyavara
Devotees can seek the blessings of Lord Siddhivinayaka by offering various Sevas. The term ‘Siddhi’ in the deity’s name refers to the belief that the Lord grants wishes, success, and perfection to his sincere devotees.
Ganahoma: A fire ritual dedicated to Lord Ganesha to remove obstacles (vighnas) and ensure success in new ventures.
Sahasra Narikela Ganayaga: A highly potent fire ritual involving the offering of 1008 coconuts (Sahasra Narikela) to the Lord.
Laksha Doorvarchane: Offering of Doorva (a special kind of grass beloved by Ganesha) for prosperity, health, and relief from ill effects.
Sindhoorarchane: An offering of Sindhoora (vermilion) to the deity, signifying energy and devotion.
Ashtadravyathmaka Ganahavana: A ritual where eight specific ingredients (ashta dravyas) are offered in the fire.
Thrikala Pooja: The performance of ritual worship at three times of the day (morning, noon, and evening).
Annadana Seva: Donation towards the temple’s provision of free meals to the visiting devotees.
How to Reach Shri Siddhivinayaka Temple, Udyavara
The temple is located in Udyavara village near Udupi, which is a historically significant town near Udupi.
Nearest City: Udupi
Temple Location: The temple is situated in Udyavara, off the Udupi-Mangaluru Highway.
By Road: From Udupi: The temple is located approximately 4 to 5 km south of the Udupi city centre and the Udupi Bus Stand.
From Bangalore to Shri Siddhivinayaka Temple, Udyavara is 400 Kms distance. KSRTC and Private busses are available to udupi or Udyavara.
Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws and local city buses are easily available from Udupi city to reach Udyavara. The temple is well-known locally, making directions straightforward.
From Mangaluru: It is on the main coastal route (NH 66) between Mangaluru and Udupi.
By Rail: Nearest Railway Station: Udupi Railway Station (UD). From the station, you can hire an prepaid auto-rickshaw or taxi to the temple.
By Air: Nearest Airport: Mangaluru International Airport (IXE), which is approximately 60 km away. Taxis and bus services are available from the airport to Udupi/Udyavara.
Sri Siddhivinayaka Temple, Udyavara
Udyavara, Udupi – 574118
Karnataka, India
Phone: +91 0820 252 6418
