Sri Tulasigeri Hanuman Temple is one of the most revered Hanuman temples in North Karnataka. Located near Bagalkot town, this ancient temple has been a centre of deep devotion for centuries and is believed to date back to the 11th century. The deity worshipped here is popularly known as *Tulasigeri Hanumappa* or *Tulsigireshwara, and devotees believe that the divine presence of Lord Hanuman in this temple represents **Sri Venkateshwara (Govinda) of Tirupati*. Because of this belief, devotees worship Hanuman here with the same reverence offered to Lord Venkateshwara. The temple attracts thousands of devotees, especially on Saturdays, and is considered a powerful place for spiritual blessings and removal of difficulties.
The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Hanuman, worshipped here as Sri Tulasigeri Hanumappa or Tulsigireshwara. Devotees believe that the murti of Hanuman in this temple represents Lord Venkateshwara (Govinda), and therefore the deity is worshipped as a divine manifestation of Venkateshwara himself. Because of this sacred belief, many devotees who cannot travel to Tirupati come here and offer prayers. The temple is especially crowded on Saturdays, as Hanuman worship on this day is considered highly auspicious. Devotees also believe that prayers offered here are very effective in *removing Shani dosha and overcoming life’s difficulties*, and many people visit the temple seeking protection, courage, and fulfilment of wishes.
Sri Tulasigeri Hanuman Temple reflects the traditional temple architecture of Karnataka and has a simple yet spiritually powerful structure. The temple consists of an ancient sanctum (Garbhagriha) where the sacred idol of Lord Hanuman is installed and worshipped with daily rituals. In front of the sanctum, there is a hall where devotees gather for prayers and darshan. The temple complex also includes an open courtyard that accommodates large gatherings during festivals and temple fairs. Though the temple has undergone renovations over time, the sacred atmosphere and traditional character of the temple have been preserved.
The sacred legend associated with Sri Tulasigeri Hanuman Temple is deeply connected with the devotion to Lord Venkateshwara of Tirupati. According to temple tradition, many years ago, a devoted bhakta wished to visit Tirupati to have darshan of Lord Venkateshwara, but due to circumstances, he was unable to undertake the journey. The devotee was deeply distressed and prayed sincerely to the Lord. One night, the Lord appeared in his dream and revealed the location of a sacred idol at Tulasigeri, explaining that Lord Hanuman present there represents Sri Venkateshwara himself. Following this divine vision, the devotee discovered the idol at the revealed place and began worshipping it with great devotion. From that time onward, the deity came to be worshipped as *Tulasigeri Hanumappa*, and devotees began believing that offering prayers here is equivalent to worshipping Lord Venkateshwara. Over the centuries, the fame of the temple spread, as many devotees experienced fulfilment of their prayers and relief from problems after visiting the temple. Because of this strong faith, the temple has remained an important pilgrimage centre for devotees seeking divine grace.
One of the most important religious events connected with the temple is the *annual Tulasigeri Hanuman Jatre*, a grand temple fair celebrated with great devotion by the local community. During this festival, thousands of devotees from Bagalkot district and surrounding regions gather at the temple to participate in special poojas, abhishekas, and devotional celebrations dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The festival usually includes processions of the deity, devotional singing, bhajans, and religious gatherings, and the temple premises become vibrant with devotees and temporary stalls and markets. The jatre is not only a religious celebration but also an important cultural event for the entire region.
A unique tradition associated with this temple fair is that after the *Hanuman Jatre, certain auspicious activities in the village, such as **marriages of male children, house painting, and major household celebrations, are traditionally avoided for about 6 months*. This practice is followed out of deep respect for the deity and reflects the strong devotion of the villagers towards Sri Tulasigeri Hanuman.
An important annual ritual celebrated at the temple is the *Laksha Deepotsava*, during which thousands of lamps are lit around the temple premises. The lighting of these lamps creates a spiritually uplifting atmosphere, and devotees participate in the ritual with great devotion, offering prayers to Lord Hanuman for blessings, protection, and prosperity.
Several important festivals are celebrated at Sri Tulasigeri Hanuman Temple throughout the year. *Hanuman Jayanti* is the main festival of the temple and is celebrated with great devotion, special poojas, abhishekas, and large gatherings of devotees. *Laksha Deepotsava* is another major celebration where thousands of lamps are lit in honour of the deity. Saturdays are considered especially sacred for Hanuman worship, and large numbers of devotees visit the temple on this day to seek blessings.
