The Origin of Mangaluru's Name: Unveiling the City's History

Mangaluru, also known as Mangalore, is a prominent industrial port city in Karnataka, India, situated on the west coast. Recognized as one of the rapidly growing cities in the country, Mangaluru is also listed among the 100 cities slated for development under the Smart Cities Mission. But have you ever wondered how Mangaluru got its name? The city’s name originates from the Mangaladevi Temple. According to legend, during the ninth century, Kundavarman, the renowned king of the Alupa dynasty, ruled over Tulu Nadu with Mangalapur as his capital.

During this period, Matsyendranatha Gorakanath, a yogi from northern Nepal, crossed the Netravati River with his disciples and arrived in Mangalapur. He was received warmly by Kundavarman, who then learned from the yogi that worshipping Mangalambe was considered auspicious in this region. Consequently, Kundavarman commissioned the construction of a temple for Sri Mangaladevi and installed a lingarupa image. Gorakanath, Matsyendranatha’s disciple, participated in this event and offered a striped garment to the temple. This tradition is honored annually when the Yogirajas of Kadri Math visit Sri Mangaladevi temple on the first day of the Kadri festival.

It is believed that unmarried women who perform the Swayamvara Parvati Vrata at Sri Mangaladevi temple will find a suitable match and ensure their family's happiness. This ritual is conducted during the night Mahapooja, and marriages held in the vicinity of the temple are thought to bring about a blissful life. The temple is also notable for its unique linga, which resembles a female form and is worshipped as the shiva Shakti linga. The deities Rakteshwari, Nandikona, and Guliga are also revered in the area, with an annual Nemotsava celebration dedicated to them.

Located in the heart of Mangaluru, the Mangaladevi temple is accessible via a well-connected private city transport bus service, situated approximately 1 km from the city center.
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Balasahana Suresh

13/09/2024 07:17 PM