The historic Sri Madananteshwara Siddivinayaka Temple at Madhur in neighbouring Kasargod district that has large following in the erstwhile Canara region is undergoing a massive renovation work since April, perhaps after about five centuries.
Located amidst lush green paddy fields and coconut groves, the temple attracts a large number of devotees even as the Madhuvahini River flowing adjacent adds to its beauty. It becomes unique following the Gaja-Prushtakara style (rear side of an elephant) of construction of the main structure with three-tiered dome.
Also famous for flood waters from Madhuvahini entering the temple for a couple of days during monsoon, this temple’s initial deity, Sadashiva, was said to have been installed by the Pandavas. The Madananteshwara in Linga form and Siddivinayaka in idol form, came as Udbhava Murthis (own manifestation) later, said temple renovation committee secretary Jayadev Khandige.
Asked about the immediate need for renovation, estimated to cost about ₹30 crore, Mr. Khandige said though the sanctum sanctorum’s superstructure looked good from outside, it had decayed from inside.
The 12 wooden pillars supporting the roof had almost decayed even as inner walls had sunk for about two feet, he said adding that any more delay would have affected the entire structure. According to his knowledge, the temple was not renovated at least for the past five centuries.
Renovation plan
Sri Keshavananda Bharathi Swami of Edaneer Mutt is the honorary president of the committee, while Danamarthandavarma Raja Ramantharasugalu XIII of Maipady Palace, the hereditary trustee, and retired IFS officer U.T. Alva are the presidents.
The renovation plan comprises 13 main works — main sanctum sanctorum, temples for Kashi Vishwanatha, Shastara, Durgaparameshwari, Subrahmanya and Sadashiva. Namaskara Mantapa, outer yard, Rajagopuras on the East and West, Yaagashaale, rest house for Archakas, Veda Paathashaale, dining hall, guest house, choultry, employees quarters, Teerthakere and flood control measures. The Malabar Devoswam Board that administers the temple, has approved the project, Mr. Khandige said.
All the structures would be brought back as they were earlier, except for use of granite stones for the foundation of the outer periphery of the sanctum sanctorum instead of laterite stone. While the committee had hoped to complete works of the main complex by March next, additional work of inner wall construction might delay the Brahma Kalasha, Mr. Khandige said.
Members plan to visit every household in Canara and Kumble Seeme to raise donation.
During renovation, the temple opens at 4 a.m., morning pooja at 6 a.m., afternoon pooja at 9 a.m. and night pooja is done at 7 p.m.