Haralu Kote Anjaneya Swamy Temple is located in the Chamarajanagar district of Karnataka.This temple is traditionally regarded as the oldest and most ancient temple in the Chamarajanagar district. It is widely described as Mahabharata-kala sambandhita, meaning connected to the times of the Mahabharata, based on long-standing local belief and oral tradition.
The presiding deity is Lord Anjaneya (Hanuman), worshipped here as Abhaya Pradayaka Anjaneya Swamy, meaning the giver of fearlessness and divine protection. Devotees strongly believe that worship here removes fear, grants courage, and offers protection from difficulties.
The temple follows a simple and ancient architectural style, reflecting its great antiquity. The structure is modest and traditional, focusing on devotion rather than grandeur. The sanctum houses a powerful idol of Lord Anjaneya, which devotees believe radiates strength, confidence, and divine protection.
According to long-standing local belief, Haralu Kote Anjaneya Swamy Temple has a strong connection with the Mahabharata era. It is believed that Arjuna worshipped Lord Hanuman at this sacred place with the blessings of Lord Krishna. The idol of Anjaneya is traditionally believed to have been installed by Arjuna himself. The place is said to have been part of the journey route of Krishna and Arjuna during the period of exile and the Mahabharata war.
According to the Sthalapurana, this region has a strong connection with Arjuna and the Mahabharata. The place is traditionally believed to be the birthplace of Babruvahana, the son of Arjuna, and the home of Chitrangada, Arjuna’s wife. Legends state that Arjuna frequently visited this place, worshipped Lord Anjaneya here, and received strength and protection before continuing his journey. Because devotees experienced fearlessness and divine protection after worshipping here, the deity came to be known as Abhaya Pradayaka Anjaneya Swamy. This belief is deeply rooted among devotees of the Chamarajanagar region.
In later centuries, especially during the Vijayanagara period, the temple is believed to have been renovated and revived. Tradition holds that Sri Vyasaraja, also known as Vyasa Tirtha, played an important role in restoring the temple, re-consecrating the deity, and reviving regular worship practices. For this reason, his name appears in some historical references, not as the original founder, but as a later spiritual restorer of the temple.
Hanuman Jayanti is the main festival celebrated at the temple with special poojas and offerings. Tuesdays and Saturdays are considered highly auspicious for worship, and devotees visit the temple in large numbers on these days. The festivals are observed in a simple and traditional manner, preserving the ancient character of the temple.
