Description
The Srikanteshwara Temple (also called Nanjundeshwara Temple) is an ancient temple Nanjangud, Karnataka. . It is known for the ancient temple of the Lord Srikanteshwara (another name for the Lord Shiva, also known as Nanjundeshwara).
History
Chola Kings in the 11th – 12th century are considered to have set in motion the construction of the temple with significant additions by the Hoysalas and the Vijayanagara kings. The temple was developed on a full scale during the era of the Mysore rulers and reached its mammoth proportions due to deviation of Krishna Raja Odeyar towards the deity.
Importance/Significance
Nanju in Kannada means poison; the name Nanjundeshwara means the "God who Drank the Poison" (halahala), a word that has its origins in the legend of the Great Churning of the Ocean of Milk; thus the town got the name 'Nanjangud' which means "the abode of God Nanjundeshwara".
Festivals/Events/Gatherings