In Hinduism, there is an equal prominence to Gods as well as Goddesses. In fact, goddesses are more feared in some places as they are said to be very powerful and can cause adverse effects if one has wronged. Such is the respect and belief that exists about the Shakti (goddesses).
Sri Rajarajeshwari Temple In Polali
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There are many shrines dedicated to these feminine powers and each of these places are considered holy. You can find temples dedicated to goddesses in every state of India. Sri Rajarajeshwari Temple in Polali is one of the famous goddess temples located in Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka.
History Of Sri Rajarajeshwari Temple
Some Sanskrit texts mention the name Paliapura which was locally known as Pural. It is said that eventually the name Pural got corrupted to Polali. According to various inscriptions and historical records, the current temple was built by the King Suratha in 8th century AD. However, a small shrine with the image of the main deity is said to have existed much before the 8th century. It is said that the temple is also mentioned in the Ashoka inscriptions.
During Temple Festival
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Location Of Polali Rajarajeshwari Temple
Sri Rajarajeshwari Temple is located in a village called Polali in Bhantwal Taluk. Polali is around 19 km from the city of Mangalore in Karnataka. Sri Rajarajeshwari Temple is situated on the banks of Phalguni river.
Speciality Of Polali Rajarajeshwari Temple
While the stone idols or granite idols of the deities are common, we would see a clay idol in Polali Temple. Yes, the goddess Rajarajeshwari was made out of special clay several years ago. This clay used is also said to possess medicinal qualities.
In The Rajarajeshwari Temple Complex
The main sanctum has the idol of the presiding deity Rajarajeshwari. Along with this, there are different shrines dedicated to Mahaganapathi, Subramanya, Badhrakali and Saraswathi.
Traditional Football Game
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Polali Chendu Festival
'Chendu' in Kannada means ball, the Polali Chendu Festival is nothing but a football game. Interestingly, the leather ball used for the game is made by a cobbler family exclusively, for this annual event.
The Polali Chendu Festival is part of an annual temple festival, which goes on for a month during March - April. Football tournament goes on for five days during the month of the yearly festival. Traditionally, this football game represents the win of the 'good over evil'.
During this annual festival, special poojas are performed in the temple and there will also be a procession wherein a temple car carrying the deity is taken around the village. A fair also happens in the temple premises.
Sri Rajarajeshwari Temple is one of the famous goddess temples in North Karnataka. So do visit this ancient temple of Dakshina Kannada district.