The largest and one of the oldest Nandi temples in the world, The Bull Temple, also known as Nandi Temple and Dodda Basavana Gudi, is one of Bangalore's most notable and historic temples. As implied by the name, it is devoted to Nandi, a holy bull worshiped as a Hindu demi-god and Lord Shiva's ride. The Bull Temple in Bangalore will be discussed in this blog, along with its history, architecture, opening hours, admission price, attractions, and other amazing and lesser-known details.
History
The temple was constructed in 1537 by a monarch by the name of Kempe Gowda, who is well known for being the founder of Bengaluru, the capital city of Karnataka. Although the Nandi statue appears to be black, such was not the case when it was constructed. The idol's original color was grey. But the statue eventually turned black because worshippers kept coating it with oil and charcoal.
Lord Shiva put the iron plate on the bull's head there to prevent the idol from expanding. According to an inscription at the temple, the Vrishabhavathi River, which flows through Bengaluru's western district, originates from a spring that sits beneath the Nandi statue.
Architecture
The current "Vimana," which rises over the shrine, was constructed in the early 20th century, but the temple itself has remained untouched over the years. The Vijayanagara style of architecture, which was popular in the 1500s, has a significant effect on the temple's design. A Shivalingam is seen behind the single granite stone from which the Nandi deity was carved. Meanwhile, Shaiva motifs are used to decorate the Vimana. The idol is about 20 feet long and 15 feet high and is carved out of a single granite boulder. A Shiva Lingam is set next to it, and it is set on a plinth.
The temple also houses statues of the Moon God (Chandra) and the Sun God (Surya). Simple and elegant, the temple's exterior features a pyramid-shaped roof constructed of red tiles. The porch of the temple's entrance is supported by four pillars that are carved with mythical creatures. A gopuram (gateway tower) that is typical of Dravidian temple construction also adorns the entrance.
Devotees can pray to the deity in the inner sanctum, a shadowy, enigmatic area. Numerous Hindu gods are depicted in elaborate carvings and sculptures on the sanctum's walls. The enormous statue of Nandi, which stands roughly 4.6 metres high and 6 metres long, is the temple's main draw. This massive Nandi statue is thought to be the biggest one ever created.
Things to See in the Bull Temple
Large monolithic Nandi statue, Shiva Lingam, and statues of the Sun and Moon God are also present in the temple.
A park featuring natural rock formations that have been around for generations is called Bugle Rock Park. There are many trees there, paved walking routes, and a water tank with murals of famous Karnataka residents including Kempe Gowda, Mokshagundam Visvesvarayya, and D.V. Gundappa. The densely treed garden is also home to a sizable population of fruit bats.
It is estimated that the Bugle boulder, a large boulder, is 3000 million years old. It ranks among the top attractions of Bugle Rock Park. Views of the city are stunning from the watchtower erected on the cliff.
Interesting Facts about Bull Temple
According to legend, the current location of the shrine was formerly a sizable groundnut field. Farmers in the area banded together to stop a wild bull from ruining the crops, but a battle broke out when they attempted to do so. When a farmer accidentally struck the bull on the head during the battle, the animal quickly changed into a statue that grew larger every day. The terrified farmers prayed to Lord Shiva, who heard their prayers and put a metal plate on the statue's head to stop it from growing.
Festivals at Bull Temple
Other notable holidays include Maha Shivaratri, Pradosham, and the groundnut festival, which takes place in November or December.
Shivaratri
One of the most important holidays observed at the Bull Temple is Shivaratri. To honour Lord Shiva, it is held in February or March. Devotees fast on this day and offer Lord Shiva and Nandi special prayers.
Karthik Poornima
The largest festival held at the Bull Temple and is observed in November or December. Numerous worshippers congregate at the temple, which is illuminated, to offer prayers and ask Lord Shiva and Nandi for blessings. The annual parade around the temple with a decked Nandi deity is the festival's main attraction.
Ugadi
For residents of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, Ugadi is the start of the new year. In March or April, it's observed as the start of the Hindu lunar calendar. Traditional rituals, specific prayers, and offerings to the gods are used to celebrate the occasion.
Ganesh Chaturthi
To honour Lord Ganesha, a ten-day event called Ganesh Chaturthi is held in August or September. At the Bull Temple, the event is observed with tremendous fervour, devotion, and special prayers and offerings to Lord Ganesha.
Navaratri
Nine-day celebration Navaratri is held in September or October to honour Goddess Durga. The Bull Temple is festooned with flowers and lights as part of the festival's fervour.
The Bull Temple is a magnificent architectural marvel that showcases Bangalore's rich cultural past. It is a must-visit location for anybody interested in history, culture, or art because of its enormous monolithic Nandi statue, basic yet attractive architecture, and intricate carvings. If you are considering a trip to Bangalore, don't skip this location. You can observe the culture and architecture while you pray.