You find the ruins of Rathnagarbha Ganapathi Temple at Ranganakere, three kilometre away from Barkur towards Mandarthi. It is said that rulers of Barkur province constructed the Temple and a pond, popularly known as “Rathna Kere’.
On knowing the meaning of the saying- ‘Ee Oorina Odeyana Hiriya Magana Koralu Muridu Karulu Bagedu Nodu.’ (Cut the throat and break open the stomach of the elder son (Ganapathi) of the Lord of this village -Shiva)- a wicked person cut the throat and break open the stomach of the idol Lord Ganapathi and robbed valuable jewels and diamonds, which were kept inside the idol. Leaving the shattered pieces of the idol on the ground, the thief flew away with the ornaments.
As the jewels were stored inside the idol, the deity is regarded as ‘Rathnagarbha Ganapathi’. We can also find the ruins of Sri Channa Keshava Temple here, but the miscreants have destroyed the sanctum sanctorum in search of the hoard (Nidhi). The Temple well has also been turned into garbage. People of Heradi village near Barkur have come forward for renovating the Temple.
The Temple and History of Rathnagarbha Ganapathi, Ranganakere
The temple complex in Ranganakere houses the shrines of Sri Chennakeshava, Sri Rathnagarbha Ganapathi, and Sri Mahalingeshwara. This area is part of the historic town of Barkur, which was an important administrative and religious center, particularly under the Alupa rulers.
- Ancient Heritage: The temple is believed to have been constructed by the Alupa rulers, who were powerful feudatories of the Chalukyas of Badami and significantly contributed to temple construction in the region.
- The Name “Rathnagarbha”: The name Rathnagarbha literally means “containing a jewel in the womb.” Local legends associated with the temple and its idol of Ganapathi suggest that a treasure was once believed to be contained within the deity, giving rise to the name and the story of the idol’s mutilation by a thief searching for the treasure.
- Ranganakere: The temple is situated near a small pond known as “Rathna Kere” (Jewel Pond), which is connected to the temple’s history and name. The place name Ranganakere derives from this historical water body.
- Current Complex: The temple today is a joint complex and remains a significant place of worship, continuing the ancient religious traditions of Barkur. A modern structure, the Shri Rathnagarbha Ganapathi Sabhangana (auditorium/marriage hall), has also been constructed in the premises to serve the community.
Festivals
The temple observes various traditional Hindu festivals, with special emphasis on events related to Lord Ganesha.
- Ganesh Chaturthi / Annual Public Ganesh Festival: This is one of the most significant festivals. A public Ganesha festival is often organized nearby at Ranganakere, drawing thousands of devotees. The festivities typically include:
- Religious Rituals: Gana Homa, Maha Pooja, Maha Mangalarati, Ranga Pooja.
- Cultural Programs: Bhajans, musical performances, and Yakshagana (a traditional art form of Karnataka).
- Community Feast (Anna Santarpane): Providing meals to all attendees.
- Visarjan (Immersion): The idol is immersed in the lake near the Ratnagarbha Ganapati Temple.
- Annual Festival (Jathra/Utsava): The main annual festival of the temple complex dedicated to the presiding deities, typically featuring traditional temple rituals and community gathering.
Seva (Offerings/Services) at the Temple
Devotees can usually offer various sevas to the deities, though the specific names and prices may vary. Common sevas at a Ganapathi and Shiva temple complex often include:
- Gana Homa: A special fire ritual dedicated to Lord Ganesha for removal of obstacles.
- Maha Pooja and Archana: Offering special prayers and floral tributes to the deities (Ganapathi, Chennakeshava, Mahalingeshwara).
- Abhisheka: Ritual bathing of the idols with water, milk, curds, honey, etc.
- Anna Santarpane Donation: Contributions towards the community meal service, especially during festivals.
- Specific Sevas: Depending on the temple, offerings like Sahasranama Archana (chanting a thousand names) or donations for temple maintenance (Jeernodhara Seva) are also possible.
Devotees are advised to inquire directly at the temple office for the current list of Sevas and their timings.
How to Reach Rathnagarbha Ganapathi, Ranganakere
The Rathnagarbha Ganapathi Temple is located in Ranganakere, a locality of Barkur, in Udupi district, Karnataka.
- By Road:
- Location: Ranganakere is approximately 3 km from Barkur town towards Mandarthi.
- From Udupi: Barkur is well-connected by bus/taxi from the major town of Udupi (approx. 16-20 km).
- From Mangalore: Barkur is accessible via NH 66 from Mangalore (approx. 80-90 km).
- By Rail:
- The nearest major railway station is Udupi Railway Station or Barkur Railway Station (on the Konkan Railway line), from where one can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to Ranganakere.
- By Air:
- The nearest major airport is Mangalore International Airport (IXE), which is approximately 90-100 km away. From the airport, a taxi can be hired directly to the temple.
