Did you know that the city of Bengaluru existed even before Kempegowda I made it the capital of his kingdom? Yes, an inscription in the ancient Nageshwara Temple in Bengaluru mentions the existence of the city during 890 AD. Nageshwara or Naganatheshwara Temple is one of the legacies of the Western Ganga Dynasty which ruled the region. Surprisingly, this temple inscription also mentions a 'Bengaluru war'!
Nageshwara Temple
Photo Courtesy: Dineshkannambadi
Let us look around the Begur Nageshwara Temple
Lord Shiva is the presiding deity of Nageshwara Temple in Begur. One speciality is that it is known as Panchalingeshwara Temple as there are pancha-lingas (five lingas) in the shrine. Today, Naganatheshwara Temple attracts the city dwellers with its elegant structure.
Structure of Naganatheshwara Temple in Begur
Naganatheshwara Temple complex comprises of an open hall which is connected to the great hall (maha mantapa) and a vestibule (antarala) which leads to the inner sanctum. Primary deity, a Shiva Linga is installed in the inner sanctum. Lord Shiva's mount Nandi is placed in the open hall facing the linga. The overall structure of the temple is simple and beautiful.
Nageshwara Temple
Photo Courtesy: Dineshkannambadi
Naganatheshwara Temple complex has 4 other Shiva shrines along with the main Nageshwara Temple. They are Sri Choleshwara Swamy, Sri Nagareshwara Swamy, Sri Kalimateshwara Swamy and Sri Karneshwara Swamy temples and they are collectively known as The Panchalingeshwara Temple.
Interestingly, hero stone with carvings depicting the warriors are also found here. Other sculptures of Lord Ganesha, Goddess Durga, Goddess Lakshmi, etc. are the major attractions in the temple premises.
Nageshwara Temple
Photo Courtesy: Dineshkannambadi
This relic traces the city's history is even before its establishment. Hence, Nageshwara temple is considered as one of the oldest temples in Bengaluru (Bangalore). Such an ancient architecture is definitely worthwhile to be visited.
How to Reach Begur Naganatheshwara Temple
Begur is located on Bengaluru-Hosur Highway. It is around 15km via Bannerghatta Road from the city centre. Begur is a situated near Bommanahalli and is easily accessible by road.
By Bus: BMTC buses are available from Shivaji Nagar, K R Market or Bannerghatta Road to reach Begur.
Visitors can also opt for private cabs or auto-rickshaws to go there.
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