Shettihalli Sri Anjaneya Swamy Temple is a well-known and spiritually significant Hindu temple located on Gubbi Road, about 3 km southeast of Tumkur city in Karnataka. The temple is situated in the peaceful village of Shettihalli and attracts thousands of devotees irrespective of caste, religion, or social background. The serene surroundings and devotional atmosphere make it one of the important Hanuman worship centres in the Tumkur region.
The exact origin date of the temple is not known through inscriptions or archaeological evidence. However, the temple information board mentions that organized renovation and development activities took place around the year 1893, indicating that the temple has existed for well over a century. Local tradition suggests that worship at this sacred spot may be older, with the present structure being rebuilt and maintained through the support of devotees and local patrons over generations.
The main deity of the temple is Sri Anjaneya Swamy (Lord Hanuman), worshipped as the embodiment of strength, devotion, courage, and protection. Devotees believe the deity removes obstacles and grants success to those who pray with faith. The idol of Lord Anjaneya is large and powerful in appearance, standing approximately 10 feet tall and about 6 feet wide, according to temple tradition. The imposing form of the deity creates a strong spiritual presence and is considered one of the prominent Anjaneya idols in the Tumakuru region.
Among Hanuman idols in Karnataka, it is regarded as one of the tallest, second only to the famous Mulabagilu Hanuman, according to local belief.
The powerful posture of the idol symbolizes strength, devotion, and protection.
The temple reflects a simple South Indian village-style architectural tradition, emphasizing devotion rather than elaborate artistic decoration. The structure consists of a sanctum (garbhagriha) housing the main idol, a small mandapa where devotees gather for prayers, and open space around the shrine to accommodate large numbers of visitors during festivals.
Historically, the temple developed as a local centre of worship for nearby villages and farming communities. Over time, increasing faith among devotees and reports of fulfilled prayers brought greater recognition to the shrine across Tumakuru district. The temple board indicates that systematic maintenance and improvements began during the late nineteenth century, after which regular worship traditions became firmly established. Today, the temple functions as an active spiritual centre visited by devotees seeking divine blessings and protection.
According to the traditional sthala-purana preserved through oral narration and temple records, the temple is believed to have a connection with the Mahabharata period. It is said that King Janamejaya, before conducting a sacred yajna, installed Lord Anjaneya at this location to prevent obstacles and ensure the successful completion of the ritual. Because of this belief, the deity is worshipped as a Vighna-Nivaraka, or remover of obstacles. Devotees strongly believe that sincere prayers offered here help overcome life difficulties, delays, and personal challenges. This legend survives mainly through local tradition rather than written historical scripture.
The most important celebration at the temple is Hanuman Jayanti, observed with special abhisheka, alankara, devotional singing, and large gatherings of devotees. During the Hindu month of Chaitra, the village experiences renewed spiritual energy with special poojas and festive activities. Weekly worship on Saturdays also attracts many devotees who offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Anjaneya.
Devotees frequently visit the temple seeking blessings for education, marriage, career success, health, and family well-being.
