Changdev Maharaj Temple, popularly known as Raja Bageshwar Dargah, is situated in the village of Yamanur in the Navalgund Taluk of Dharwad district, Karnataka.The temple is dedicated to Changdev Maharaj, a revered 12th-century yogi and saint. He is often depicted as a powerful sage riding a tiger and holding a snake as his whip, symbolizing his extraordinary control over nature and mystical powers. People worship him both as a Hindu saint and, in the local Muslim community, as Raja Bageshwar. This dual reverence makes the temple a unique symbol of religious harmony.
Nearby is the Benne Halla stream, famous for its healing properties. Devotees often take a ritual bath here using natural elements like lime and salt, which is believed to cure skin diseases before they enter the temple.
The temple is a modest structure combining elements of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles, reflecting its unique interfaith significance. The main shrine houses the idol of Changdev Maharaj, often shown riding a tiger. The temple premises include a small mosque area where Muslim devotees offer prayers. The open courtyard facilitates communal gatherings during festivals, and the overall architecture is simple yet spiritually significant.
The sacred story or sthalapurana associated with this temple tells of Changdev Maharaj’s battle with death and his yogic powers. It is said that Yama, the god of death, tried to take the saint’s life, but Changdev Maharaj overcame him through meditation and spiritual might. His ability to tame a tiger and hold a snake as a whip shows his mastery over nature’s forces. This legend is the reason the place became known as Yamanur and is central to the temple’s religious importance. The temple is a place where devotees come to seek protection from death and illnesses.
The temple celebrates a unique annual fair (jatra) held after the festival of Holi every year. This event draws thousands of devotees from different communities who come to pay their respects. During the Yamanur Changdev Maharaj Urs festival, there is a special tradition of lighting lamps using water from the Benne Halla (Butter Stream).
On the days of the Urs festival, pure and holy water is taken from the Benne Halla stream. Using this water, lamps are lit as an offering to the deity. These lamps symbolize peace and good blessings.
Devotees use this water during prayers, homas (fire rituals), and lamp ceremonies. This water is considered sacred and clean, adding cultural and religious importance to the Urs celebrations.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Changdev Maharaj Temple is its role as a symbol of communal harmony. Both Hindus and Muslims worship here together. The temple priests, belonging to the Hindu Barge family, conduct daily pujas, while Muslim caretakers from the Makandar family offer Fatiha prayers. This rare practice makes the temple a beacon of unity and peace.