Shri Kurubagatti Hanuman Temple is located at Kurubagatti village, about 17 km from Dharwad, Karnataka.The presiding deity is Lord Hanuman, worshipped here as Japavedika Anjaneya. He is believed to be a living deity, known for fulfilling the sincere prayers of devotees.
The idol of Lord Hanuman in this temple is very rare and highly powerful. Here, Lord Hanuman is depicted *killing the rakshasa Aksha Kumara with his feet, symbolizing the destruction of evil and protection of dharma. His “right hand is in Abhaya Hasta, assuring devotees of fearlessness and divine protection, while the “left hand holds the sacred Sougandhika Pushpa, representing purity and devotion. The idol also features the “sacred thread (Yagnopaveeta) across the shoulder* and a “Shikha (tuft of hair) on the head, highlighting Vedic discipline and spiritual strength. A bell tied at the end of the tail* signifies alertness and the constant presence of divine energy. Uniquely, the presence of *Shankha and Chakra* emphasizes Hanuman’s inseparable connection with Lord Vishnu and Lord Rama, making this form exceptionally rare and spiritually significant.
These features indicate that the idol was consecrated according to Vaishnava traditions.
According to temple tradition, the punar-prathisthapana (re-consecration) of this temple was performed by Sri Vyasarayaru, the great saint of the Madhva tradition.
About 500 years ago, a huge boulder was being transported in a bullock cart towards a small village called Mulamutla, near Kurubagatti. When the cart reached a field close to Kurubagatti village, it suddenly stopped and refused to move. Despite several people trying together to push or pull the cart, it did not budge.
The unusual incident created curiosity and devotion among the villagers. Soon, a difference of opinion arose between the people of Mulamutla and Kurubagatti villages, as both believed the boulder was divine and wanted the temple to be constructed in their own village.
During this period of uncertainty, Lord Hanuman appeared in the dreams of the people of Mulamutla village and revealed his divine will. He clearly conveyed that the temple should be built at Kurubagatti, where the boulder had come to rest. Accepting the Lord’s command with devotion, the people of Mulamutla withdrew their claim.
At the same time, the Deshpande of Kurubagatti received a divine vision. Lord Hanuman appeared in his dream and said that His sacred impression was present on the boulder standing in the field. The Lord instructed him not to move the boulder and to construct a temple at that very spot.
Obeying the divine command, the Deshpande agreed, and a temple was built exactly where the boulder stood. Thus, Shri Kurubagatti Hanuman Temple came into existence, standing today as a powerful symbol of the Lord’s presence and his chosen abode.
This sacred temple is believed to be mentioned two to three times in the Puranas. Devotees strongly believe that Lord Hanuman roams the temple premises even today. Many say they have seen him as a tall, handsome figure, wearing an orange turban, zari dhoti, holding a staff, and walking with huge slippers.
Over time, these slippers are said to have become worn out, and they are preserved as living witnesses to the Lord’s presence. This belief strengthens the faith of devotees and is considered a sign that Japavedika Anjaneya is a living and protective deity of this kshetra.
Hanuma Jayanti, Madhva Navami, Kartika Deepotsava, and Shravana Masa Poojas are celebrated with great devotion. During these occasions, special abhishekas, alankaras, Pallaki Seva, and annual fairs (jatre) are conducted, attracting devotees from far and near.
