Madhur Sri Madanantheswara Siddhi Vinayaka Temple
The Madhur Sri Madanantheswara Siddhi Vinayaka Temple, located in the Madhur Grama Panchayat, is one of the most historic and ancient places of worship in the Kasaragod district. The key information about this temple is given below:
1. Main Deities
As the name suggests, Lord Shiva (Madanantheswara) and Lord Ganesha (Siddhi Vinayaka) are the main deities of this temple. Although it was originally known as a Shiva temple, over time, the subordinate deity, Lord Ganesha, gained greater prominence and popularity. Other sub-deities worshipped here include Kashi Vishwanathan, Dharmashastha (Ayyappa), Subrahmanya, and Durga Bhagavathi.
2. Legend and History
According to belief, a self-manifested (Swayambhoo) Shiva Lingam was discovered here by a woman named Madhu, who belonged to a lower caste. This is how the place came to be known as 'Madhur'.
Another popular legend says that a young Brahmin boy, who was doing duties at the temple, playfully drew a picture of Lord Ganesha on the temple wall. Miraculously, the drawing began to grow in size and transformed into a lifelike stone idol. This form of Ganesha is worshipped today as 'Siddhi Vinayaka'.
3. Architecture
The temple is situated on the banks of the Madhuwahini River. The magnificent three-storied sanctum sanctorum (Sreekovil) built in the Gajaprishta style (resembling the back of an elephant) highlights the architectural significance of this temple. Exquisite wooden carvings and depictions of scenes from the Ramayana can be seen on the temple's roof.
4. Invasion of Tipu Sultan
The temple was attacked during the military invasion of Tipu Sultan. History says that Tipu, who intended to destroy the temple, changed his mind and retreated after drinking water from the temple well. A mark made by Tipu Sultan’s sword on the temple’s outer wall during the attack can still be seen today as a symbol of this historic event.
5. Main Offerings and Festivals
Udayastamana Pooja and Appam: The most important offering (Vazhipadu) here is the 'Madhur Appam'. This famous prasadam is prepared inside the temple premises using large quantities of ghee, rice, and jaggery.
The Flow of Madhuwahini: A unique feature of this temple is that during the monsoon season, the Madhuwahini River overflows and the floodwaters enter the inner courtyard of the temple.
Tens of thousands of devotees visit the temple to offer prayers during its annual festival and on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi.
