Devotees Brave Rains for Darshan at Hasanamba Temple

In a testament to unwavering faith, hundreds of devotees braved relentless heavy downpours on Friday to queue up for a sacred darshan of Goddess Hasanamba at the historic Hasanamba Temple in Hassan. Despite the inclement weather turning the temple grounds into a slippery challenge, the spiritual fervor of the pilgrims remained undeterred, as they sought the benevolent blessings of the presiding deity, revered as an incarnation of Shakti.

The temple, a 12th-century architectural marvel built during the Hoysala era, swung open its doors on October 9 for the annual Hasanamba Jatra Mahotsava. This once-a-year event, aligned with the Deepavali festival, draws lakhs of visitors from across Karnataka, neighboring states, and even Maharashtra. Public darshan commenced at 6 a.m. on October 10, with the shrine remaining accessible until 7 p.m. daily—barring ritual hours—through October 22. The festival concludes on October 23, after which the temple seals shut for another year, preserving its mystical aura.

A Tradition Rooted in Miracles

The Hasanamba Temple stands out not just for its Dravidian-style gopuram but for the divine miracles associated with it. Legend has it that one of the Sapta Matrikas (Seven Mothers) resided here, manifesting as Goddess Hasanamba to protect the land. The idol, housed within a cluster of three anthills, is adorned only during the festival. A ghee-lit lamp (Nanda Deepa) burns continuously from the previous year’s closure, its flame never extinguishing, while offerings of rice and flowers remain fresh and unspoiled—phenomena that devotees attribute to the goddess’s eternal grace.

Local folklore abounds with tales of the deity’s protective power. One story recounts how a devotee’s cruel mother-in-law, in a fit of rage, struck her with a cup during prayer; Hasanamba instantly petrified the assailant to shield her follower. Another narrates four robbers attempting to pilfer the goddess’s jewelry, only to be turned to stone—idols now enshrined in the adjacent Kallapana Gudi. These narratives underscore Hasanamba’s dual nature: a nurturing mother to the faithful and a fierce guardian against wrongdoers.

The temple complex also encompasses shrines to Darbar Ganapati and Siddheshwara Swamy (Lord Shiva), the latter depicting Shiva bestowing the Pashupatastra on Arjuna. Hassan itself derives its name from “Simhasanapuri,” linked to King Janamejaya’s mythical throne, evolving over centuries into the smiling “Hasana” that defines the region.

Arrangements Amidst the Monsoon

This year’s festival anticipates over 25 lakh visitors, up from last year’s 20 lakh, prompting the Hassan district administration to implement robust measures. Revenue Minister Krishna Byregowda, who inspected the site on October 10 alongside Deputy Commissioner K.S. Lathakumari and Superintendent of Police Mohammed Sujeetha, emphasized streamlined VIP entries and cultural programs on three stages to enhance the experience.

Devotees have options for entry: free general queues for patient pilgrims or paid tickets at ₹300 (quicker access) and ₹1,000 (VIP, within 1-2 hours). Online bookings via the official Sri Hasanamba app, website (srihassanaambatemple.com), or WhatsApp chatbot (6366105589) have eased congestion, with QR-coded digital tickets for seamless verification. Special provisions cater to seniors above 80 and those with disabilities, offering free, priority darshan.

Infrastructure includes German tents for shelter, CCTV surveillance, barricades for orderly flow, temporary toilets, drinking water stations, emergency medical aid, and traffic diversions. Helitourism and KSRTC tour packages further facilitate access, while accommodations for outstation visitors are prioritized. Even as rains lashed the Malnad region—echoing last year’s downpours that tested but did not break the devotees’ resolve—the administration ensured safety, with no major disruptions reported.

Echoes of Devotion

Among the early arrivals on October 10 were families from Bengaluru and Mysuru, some traveling overnight. “The rain is Her prasad—testing our bhakti before granting darshan,” shared one pilgrim, umbrella in hand, as queues snaked through puddles. Dignitaries like Pejawar Mutt seer Vishwesha Tirtha Swami and MLC C.T. Ravi have also paid homage, joining the masses in this rare communion.

As the day progressed, the air filled with chants of “Jai Hasanamba” and the scent of incense, undimmed by the drizzle. The goddess’s smiling visage, illuminated by flickering lamps, seemed to welcome all with open arms.

For those planning a visit, darshan timings are 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., with early mornings recommended to beat peak crowds. Travel to Hassan is convenient via NH75 from Bengaluru (180 km) or Hassan Junction railway station (2 km away). Check hassan.nic.in for real-time updates.

The Hasanamba festival isn’t merely a ritual—it’s a living celebration of faith’s triumph over adversity, where even the heavens’ tears cannot quench the spirit of devotion.

Hindutone.com brings you stories of spirituality, culture, and heritage from across India. Stay tuned for more on sacred journeys and divine encounters.

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