Shree Nagavi Yellamma Temple is one of the most ancient and spiritually powerful shrines in North Karnataka. Nestled in the quiet village of Nagavi, near Chittapur in Kalaburagi district, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Yellamma (Renuka Devi) — a revered form of Mother Shakti. Surrounded by peaceful countryside, ancient ruins, and sacred wells, the temple offers both divine grace and a glimpse into Karnataka’s royal and cultural past.
The presiding deity of this temple is Shree Yellamma Devi, also known as Renuka or Yallamma, worshipped as the Universal Mother. Devotees believe she is the embodiment of compassion, strength, and divine protection. She is especially venerated by families in North Karnataka and parts of Telangana, who consider her their Kuladevi (family goddess).
The Nagavi Yellamma Temple features a blend of Dravidian and Deccan architectural styles. Built from local limestone, the shrine showcases ancient craftsmanship in its carved pillars and stone walls. Nearby stands the famous “60-Pillar Temple”, a remnant of medieval architecture that once formed part of a larger temple complex. A sacred stepwell called Nandi Baavi (holy pond) lies near the shrine and still holds water throughout the year.
The temple is believed to be nearly 1000 years old, dating back to the Rashtrakuta period. Historical records and inscriptions describe Nagavi (then known as Nagavapi) as a prosperous Agrahara — a settlement of learned scholars and priests who taught the Vedas and Shastras. The temple was the family deity of the Rashtrakuta kings, who sought the blessings of Goddess Yellamma before wars and royal events. Later, the Kalyani Chalukyas and other Deccan rulers also maintained the site, enriching its heritage.
According to the sacred legend, Goddess Yellamma is none other than Renuka Devi, the virtuous wife of Sage Jamadagni and mother of Parashurama, the warrior incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Once, Renuka lost her divine concentration for a brief moment while fetching water from a river, and her spiritual power weakened. Sage Jamadagni, angered by this, asked Parashurama to test his obedience by beheading his mother. Obeying his father, Parashurama carried out the order but later begged for her life to be restored. Through divine grace, Renuka came back to life as Yellamma — the Universal Mother, filled with boundless compassion for all beings.
After regaining divine form, Yellamma traveled across the land to bless her devotees. When she reached Nagavi, she chose this place to dwell eternally. The village name Nagavi is said to have come from Naga (serpent) and Vapi (pond), referring to the sacred serpent pond near the temple. Legends say divine serpents offered their devotion to her here, and thus she became known as Nagavi Yellamma.
The Rashtrakuta kings later built a temple at this very spot to honor their family goddess. Before every war or coronation, they sought her blessings for victory and protection. The Goddess was believed to appear in their dreams, assuring them of her protection as long as they ruled justly.
Nearby, the sacred Nandi Baavi is believed to be home to a divine serpent performing penance for the Goddess. On auspicious days, the water level is said to rise mysteriously — symbolizing the outpour of Yellamma’s blessings to her devotees.
Even today, devotees believe that the Goddess listens to every sincere prayer and removes sorrow from their lives. She is seen not as a distant deity, but as a compassionate mother who understands human suffering.
The grand Yellamma Jatre (annual fair) is the highlight of the year. Thousands of devotees from across Karnataka and Telangana visit Nagavi to offer prayers and participate in rituals, bhajans, and community feasts. Fridays, full moon days, and Sankranti are considered especially auspicious. During the Jatre, the entire area comes alive with devotion, traditional music, and colorful processions carrying the image of the Goddess through the village streets.
