The newly-renovated Hosa Marigudi Temple in Kaup, 13 km from Udupi, is dedicated to Goddess Maariyamma, worshipped by the Tuluva community for over 400 years. Divya Nair/Rediff visits.
The temple features 118 intricately carved pillars, along with detailed wooden carvings of deities, animals and floral motifs.
Four massive pillars within the sanctum sanctorum are crafted from Bagalkote Ilkal red stone, showcasing the distinctive Hoysala architectural style.
Cricketer Suryakumar Yadav, whose wife Devisha Shetty hails from Karnataka, has donated one of the pillars.
The Swarna Gadduge, or the golden throne of the goddess, is designed in the shape of a lion and crafted from 15 kg of gold and 175 kg of silver, adorned with gemstones, and valued at approximately ₹15 crore.
Inspired by Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir, the massive 1,500 kg bell -- 5 ft tall and 4 ft wide -- is the second-largest bell in India.
The temple draws large crowds of devotees, especially on Tuesdays, for its rituals and offerings, including the Sarvajanika Annasantharpane (free meal for all).
Hosa Marigudi’s renovation, estimated at around ₹30 crore, was made possible through generous contributions from local residents and celebrities alike.
The shrine has been visited by several stars, including actors Kangana Ranaut, Shilpa Shetty, Pooja Hegde, Rakshit Shetty among others.