Kartika Masa Celebrations at Malleswaram Sri Kadu Malleswara Swamy Temple in 2026 are from October 22 to November 20. Mondays in the month are on October 27, November 3, November 10 and November 17. Kadale Kayi Parishe or Groundnut Fair is on November 10, 2026
Short Note on the Temple
Malleswaram Sri Kadu Malleswara Swamy Temple, nestled in the heart of Bengaluru’s historic Malleswaram neighborhood, is an enduring center of Shaiva devotion. Dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Kadu Malleswara, the temple draws devotees year‑round but becomes a focal point of activity during Kartika Masa (October–November), when special ceremonies, fairs, and fasts mark this holy period.
Significance of Kartika Masa
Kartika Masa is revered across Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh as a month dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to tradition, acts of devotion performed during this time yield enhanced spiritual merit. The entire month is considered optimal for lighting lamps, offering prayers, and observing fasts. Devotees believe that sincere worship in Kartika Masa fulfills wishes, purifies the mind, and brings lasting peace.
Shiva Deepotsava: Lighting Ceremony
One of the temple’s most prominent events is the Shiva Deepotsava. Every evening, rows upon rows of oil lamps are lit around the sanctum, symbolizing the dispelling of ignorance by divine light. Participating in this ceremony is said to:
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Enhance inner clarity and focus
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Attract positive energy and prosperity
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Strengthen one’s bond with Shiva
Devotees often sponsor lamps in the memory of loved ones or as an act of thanksgiving for fulfilled vows.
Kadale Kaayi Parishe: Groundnut Fair
On the third Monday of Kartika Masa, the temple grounds transform into a bustling fair known as Kadale Kaayi Parishe. Groundnuts, or kadale kaayi, are offered in large quantities to Lord Shiva, symbolizing the humble devotee’s offerings of nature’s bounty. The fair features:
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Stalls selling freshly roasted groundnuts
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Cultural performances and devotional songs
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Distribution of prasada (blessed food)
Participating in the fair fosters community spirit and reinforces the idea of sharing one’s wealth and blessings.
Mondays: Highly Auspicious Days
Every Monday in Kartika Masa holds special significance. Mondays, or Somavara, are traditionally linked to Shiva, and worship on these days is believed to amplify the benefits of prayers. Special pujas, abhishekams (ritual baths), and alankarams (ornamentation of the deity) are conducted. Devotees report:
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Relief from stress and anxiety
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Improved health and vitality
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Greater success in personal and professional endeavors
Fasting and Its Benefits
Many devotees observe fasts throughout Kartika Masa or on Mondays specifically. Fasting disciplines the body and mind, promoting self‑control and purity. Health and spiritual benefits include:
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Improved digestion and detoxification
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Heightened mental alertness and emotional balance
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Deepened sense of devotion and self‑reflection
Symbolism and Other Facts
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Lamps and Light: The collective glow of thousands of lamps signifies unity and the shared aspiration for enlightenment.
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Groundnut Offering: Beyond its nutritional value, the groundnut represents humility—small yet full of potential.
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Devotional Music: Bhajans and chants during Kartika Masa resonate with vibrations believed to cleanse the environment and uplift devotees.
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Historical Continuity: The temple’s Kartika celebrations have been observed for centuries, linking modern worshippers with generations past.
By taking part in Kartika Masa rituals at Malleswaram Sri Kadu Malleswara Swamy Temple, devotees not only honor Lord Shiva but also experience communal harmony, personal well‑being, and spiritual elevation.