Hasanamba Temple

The temple was constructed c. the 12th century CE, although the exact date is unknown. Archeological experts consider the Hasanamba Temple to be an example of the epitome of temple architecture in Karnataka. The city of Hassan dates to the 11th century CE and the temples around Hassan signify the various dynasties that have ruled ever since the 11th century CE. It was originally built by the Hoysala dynasty in their tradition, reflecting their faith in Hinduism. The temples in the Hassan district are some of the examples of the Hoysala tradition of temple architecture. == Architecture ==

There is an ant-hill representing the presiding deity inside the temple premises. ==Religious Significance==

Because the temple is open for only two weeks annually, it is considered special to obtain a darshan during the Deepavali festival. ==Legend==

Once when the seven Matrikas (Kannada: Sapta-Maatrukeyaru) - Brahmi, Maheshwari, Kaumari, Vaishnavi, Varahi, Indrani and Chamundi came floating from Varanasi to South India, they were taken aback by the beauty of Hassan and decided to reside here. Maheshwari, Kaumari and Vaishnavi settled in the three anthills inside the temple; Brahmi in Kenchamma's Hosakote, while Indrani, Varahi and Chamundi chose the three wells in Devigere (lake). Hassan was named after Kannada/Sanskrit word Simhasana which means throne. As per local legend the 'Haasana' is abridged form of 'Simhasanapuri' a place associated with Janamejaya, he was great-grandson of Pandava hero Arjuna. According to mythology Janamejaya had lived in Simhasanapuri during his cursed period. While the goddess is regarded benevolent, she is said to be harsh to those who harm her devotees. There is a belief that a mother-in-law of a devotee of Hasanamba used to ill-treat her always. Once as she was praying in front of the goddess, the mother-in-law came after her and screamed - What is important to you, Coming to the temple or your duties? Saying this, she hit her hard on the head with a cup. The daughter-in-law screamed 'Amba' and asked for protection. Devi turned her into a stone and kept her under her protection in the temple premise. The stone is called 'sose kallu' (stone of daughter-in-law). It is believed that the stone of the daughter-in-law keeps moving by the size of a paddy grain towards goddess every year, when it reaches the icon of Hasanamba the period of Kali Yuga will end. On the day of Balipadyami a Jaatre (fair) called Raavanotsava will be held, it is dedicated to lord Siddheshwara swamy. ==References==