Vidurashwatha Temple – The Sacred Grove of Nagas and Legends

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Vidurashwatha is a quiet village situated near the Karnataka–Andhra Pradesh border, just 5 kilometers from Gauribidanur in Chikkaballapur district, Karnataka. Though small in size, the place holds enormous religious and historical importance. It is home to the Vidurashwatha Temple, a sacred site dedicated to Santhana Nagendra Swamy, and is regarded as a significant Parihara Sthalam for resolving all forms of Naga Dosha.



The Legend of Vidura and the Ashwatha Tree

As the name suggests, Vidurashwatha is linked to the sage-like courtier Vidura, a key figure in the Mahabharata. After the devastation of the Kurukshetra war, Vidura sought spiritual salvation and approached Sri Krishna for guidance. Krishna advised him to undertake a pilgrimage.

Eventually, Vidura reached the hermitage of Maitreya Maharishi, located at this very spot. While performing his Sandhyavandana in the nearby river, Vidura came across a small Ashwatha (banyan) sapling. As per the rishi’s advice, Vidura worshipped it with great devotion. Pleased by his penance, Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva are said to have appeared before him, granting him salvation. The place where Vidura planted and worshipped the tree came to be known as Vidurashwatha.

The original Ashwatha tree stood for centuries as a living symbol of this legend but sadly fell during a storm in 2001. However, its sacred remains are preserved at the site, still attracting reverence.



The Shrine and Architecture

The Vidurashwatha Temple, originally believed to have been built during the Chola period in the 11th century, has undergone several renovations, with the most recent restoration completed in 2016.

The temple's arched entrance has the stuccom images of Trimurtis - Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.

The sanctum of the temple is modest but spiritually intense. It houses a Shiva Linga accompanied by Ganesha and Kartikeya, surrounded by a collection of serpent icons (Naga murtis) arranged on stepped platforms. 

Another shrine within the complex enshrines a central multi-hooded Nagaraja flanked by his two consorts. 



The Sacred Tree and Vishnu Icon

Behind the main shrine lies a protected enclosure that holds the remnants of the original Ashwatha tree. Alongside it is an image of Vishnu, subtly placed next to the tree. A mural on the background wall illustrates the episode from Mahabharata, connecting Vidura to this sacred tree.

The Naga Murti Forest

One of the most unique features of Vidurashwatha Temple is the astonishing number of Naga icons installed throughout the complex. It is estimated that over 50,000 serpent murtis are placed across the site.

The installation of new icons continues even today. The temple management has been acquiring adjoining lands over the years to accommodate this ever-expanding collection, making the temple feel like a sacred forest of serpent murtis. Rows upon rows of stone images, big and small, old and new - greet the visitor from every corner.



Annual Jatra and Devotional Practices

The temple celebrates its annual jatra (fair) during March or April each year. A festive chariot procession is held where decorated rathas carry the processional icons of Shiva and other deities through the surrounding streets.

Despite its modest size, Vidurashwatha Temple attracts a steady flow of devotees, especially those seeking relief from serpent-related afflictions, family-related doshas, or those seeking Santhana Prapti (blessings for progeny).

Located in a calm and serene setting near a river, this sacred space offers more than a visual spectacle; it offers quiet introspection, devotion, and a sense of ancient continuity.

Happy travelling.




Location: Vidurashwatha, Karnataka 561208, India

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