Description
Mookambika temple is located at Kollur in Karnataka. It is the only temple that is dedicated to Parvathi and is believed to have been created by Parashurama. This temple is well known among the people of Tamil Nadu and is called Thai Mookambika in Tamil. The temple is located exactly on the banks of the perennial river Souparnika.
History
According to legends, Parvati killed a demon called Kamsasuran who lived here. He tried attempted to become all powerful through his penance. Devi along with the help of Veerabadra, Ganapathi and Shiva took away his ability to talk. Hence, he was called the Mookasuran, mooka means to be dumb. Later, the goddess killed him with her Chakra on the midnight of Shukla Astami. From then on Devi came to be called as Kollur Devi Mookambika. Her divine energy, which became one with the lingam was worshipped by Kola Maharishi.
Importance/Significance
The establishment of the Mookambika temple is attributed to the Supreme, Lord Parameshwara, rather than to an individual person. Historically, the temple is estimated to be at least 1200 years old and is mentioned in conjunction with King Halugallu Veera Sangayya who installed an idol there.
Facts/Mythology
Devi Mookambika has three eyes and four arms, with the divine disc and conch in each of her hands. The Mookambika temple is renowned for its beauty and aesthetics, all over the world. Goddess Kollur Mookambika is adorned with flowers. Ritual bathing and prayer to the idol are a common feature of the presiding lingam. Water from Souparnika river is used for theertham and puja.
Festivals/Events/Gatherings
The Kollur Mookambika temple wears a festival look during Navarathri and Navarathri is celebrated with pomp, show and gaiety