Description
Sri Sharadamba Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in the town of Shringeri. It is dedicated to Saraswati.
History
The temple was built in the 8th-century, and was founded by Sri Adi Shankaracharya. Originally it was an unpretentious shrine with the Murti of Sharada made of sandalwood, installed over the Sri Chakra that Sri Adi Shankaracharya carved on a rock. Subsequently, Sri Bharati Krishna Tirtha and Sri Vidyaranya had a temple built in the Kerala style, with timber and tiled roof. Sri Bharati Krishna Tirtha substituted the sandalwood idol with the present golden idol.
Importance/Significance
According to legends, Shiva gifted a crystal Chandramouleeshwara Linga to Sri Adi Shankaracharya. The Linga can still be visited and the Chandramouleeshwara Puja is offered to the Linga every night at 8:30 PM. It is also believed that Goddess Sharadambika, an incarnation of Goddess Saraswati, came to Earth as Upaya Bharathi. It is of a common belief that by worshiping her, one receives blessings from Brahma, Shiva, and Vishnu along with Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati. The ritual of Aksharabhyasa performed here is considered to be extremely sacred and fulfilling.
Facts/Mythology
During Jagadguru's fiftieth birthday, doors made of gold were installed and inaugurated at the entrance of the sanctum of the temple.
Festivals/Events/Gatherings
Navaratri festival is celebrated every year for 11 days. The Shathachandi Homa is performed on Mahanavami. On the Chaitra Shukla Poornima, a special puja is offered in the Sri Sharada Shrine. On Vaisaka Krishna Prathipath Mahabhishekam and special puja is done for Sri Sharadambal. On Karthika Poornima, a Deepotsava is organised in the shrine. On the eve of Magha Shukla Panchami, Lalitha Panchami is celebrated with special Puja performed to Sri Sharadamba by the Jagadguru. On the Magha Krishna Dwithiya special Puja to Sri Sharadamba is performed by the Jagadguru. On the Magha Trithiya Sri Sharadamba Rathotsava is celebrated.