Mandasmita lalitavaktre, dhautaambarabhooshitagaatre |
Karunaapoornanetre pavanee krata bappanadu kshete |
Simhavaahanasmite vrandaaravranda vandite |
Abhaya varadahaste sujanaparirakshanaasakte |
Sri parameshwari, namostute |
The Sri Durgaparameshwari Temple in Bappanadu is a very famous and old temple, located in Mulki, near Udupi-Mangalore Highway, in Karnataka. This temple is quite special because of its unique history of religious harmony and its divine atmosphere.
History:
The Bappanadu Durgaparameshwari Temple is believed to be around 800 years old, with its main structure showing architecture from the 14th century. The most interesting part of its history is linked to a Muslim merchant named Bappa Beary from Kerala.
The legend says that Bappa Beary’s boat suddenly stopped in the Shambhavi River near Mulki. The river water turned red, and the Goddess appeared to him in a dream. She asked him to build a temple for her. With the help of the local Jain ruler, Mulki Sawantha, Bappa Beary spent all his wealth to construct this temple. Because of his involvement, the place came to be known as “Bappanadu,” meaning “Bappa’s village.”
Even today, this harmony continues. During the annual car festival, the first ‘prasada’ (blessings/food) is given to Bappa Beary’s family. People from all religions, including Muslims, are welcome to visit the temple and receive ‘prasada’, which shows a great example of unity and respect for all faiths.
Another popular story connects the temple to Goddess Durgaparameshwari defeating a powerful demon named Darigasura. After the demon was vanquished, the Goddess and her sisters are believed to have settled near Mulki to bless devotees on earth.
The temple is also famous for its very large and old drum, called “Bappanadu Dolu.” This drum is a heritage item and is a big part of the temple’s festivals, with a specific community beating it with great energy during celebrations.
Pooja Timings (General):
The temple is generally open for Darshan (viewing the deity) from 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM.
Here are the general Pooja timings:
Morning Prathabisheka and Darshan: 6:00 AM
Maha Pooja (Afternoon): 12:30 PM to 1:00 PM (Free meals/Prasadam are usually served from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM)
Maha Pooja (Night): 7:30 PM to 8:00 PM (Free meals/Prasadam are usually served from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM)
Please note that timings can sometimes change, especially during special festivals or events. It’s always a good idea to confirm with the temple directly if you are planning your visit for a specific ritual.
Special Poojas and Festivals:
Annual Car Festival (Brahma Rathotsava): This is the biggest festival and usually takes place in March or April. It’s a grand event with a chariot procession, special rituals, music, and cultural programs, attracting thousands of devotees.
Navaratri: This nine-night festival dedicated to Goddess Durga is celebrated with great devotion and elaborate pujas.
Deepotsava: A festival of lights.
Dhanurmasa: Special prayers and rituals are observed during this auspicious month.
Weekly Poojas: Special pujas are performed regularly, especially on Fridays.
Communal Harmony Events: As mentioned, the temple is known for its inclusivity. During festivals, local communities, including Muslims, participate, and traditional practices like the ‘Bappanadu Dolu’ beating by a specific community are observed.
Address:
Sri Durgaparameshwari Temple
Bappanadu Guthu, Bappanaadu Temple Road,
Mulki, Karnataka 574154, India.
How to reach Sri Durgaparameshwari Temple, Bappanadu?
Bappanadu is near Mulki, which is about 28-30 km north of Mangalore. From Bangalore, it’s a long journey, roughly 400 kms.
By Car/Taxi: This is the most convenient way. It will take around 7.5 to 9 hours. You would typically take National Highway (NH) 48 and then connect to NH 66 towards Mangalore.
By Bus: You can take a direct bus from Bengaluru (Bommasandra is near Bengaluru) to Mangalore or Udupi. From Mangalore or Udupi, you can easily find local buses or auto-rickshaws to Mulki/Bappanadu, which is located directly on the highway.
By Train: The nearest major railway station is Mangalore. You can take a train from Bengaluru to Mangalore (takes about 10-12 hours). From Mangalore railway station, you can take a taxi or a local bus to Bappanadu.
By Flight: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (IXE), which is about 22-25 km from Bappanadu. From the airport, you can easily hire a taxi directly to the temple.
The Sri Durgaparameshwari Temple at Bappanadu is a truly significant and inspiring place, known for its powerful deity, rich history, and remarkable message of communal harmony.
