The Avarkhod Hanuman Temple, situated in the tranquil village of Avarkhod near Athani in Belgaum district, Karnataka, is a revered site dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The temple’s history dates back approximately 500 years.
The uniqueness of the temple here is, that the idol of Lord Hanuman, consecrated in the temple is believed to be in deep meditation. To avoid disturbing his concentration, no noise is made in the village.
The temple’s history dates back approximately 500 years. According to local tradition, Bua Maharaj discovered the idol of Lord Hanuman while bathing in the Krishna River and began worshipping it with deep devotion. The idol is South-facing, which is significant in Hindu traditions as it symbolizes protection and strength.
The idol of Lord Hanuman at the Avarkhod temple is a masterpiece carved from a single piece of stone, demonstrating remarkable traditional craftsmanship. Its design is a harmonious blend of simplicity and divinity, capturing Lord Hanuman’s serene and concentrated expression in deep meditation.
In addition to the age of the Hanuman temple in Avarkhod, the customs and traditions followed in the village make it unique. The belief is that the Dakshina Mukhi Lord Hanuman is deeply engaged in meditation, and no noise should disturb him. To avoid interrupting the deity’s meditation, the people of Avarkhod live in silence. They avoid noise, such as public speeches, machine sounds, and wedding celebrations. Additionally, villagers involved in trades like carpentry, pottery, and blacksmithing carry out their work only on the outskirts of the village. The popular belief is that disturbing the deity’s meditation will lead to negative outcomes, such as job loss and other misfortunes.
The belief is Lord Hanuman also blesses his devotees with material success, such as prosperity in business, good health, and happy relationships. As he is in deep meditation, he bestows transcendental bliss upon those who worship him.