Shri Someshwaraswamy Temple dates back to the 13th century and is believed to have been built during the Chola period. Some sources even suggest that it could be around 1500 years old. However, when observing the structure, priests and devotees opine that it likely belongs to the 13th century. Yet, there are no inscriptions or historical texts that confirm this.
Halasuru Sri Someshwara Swamy Temple Story
It is believed that one day, Sri Jayappa Gowda, the ruler of Yelahanka, came to this place for hunting, driven by divine inspiration. Tired from his journey, he lay down to rest under a tree. While sleeping, he fell into a deep slumber and had a vision of Lord Someshwara Swamy appearing before him in a dream. The Lord said:
"In earlier times, this sacred place was worshipped with great devotion by the sage Mandavya. But due to the influence of the Kali Yuga, people's devotion has declined. This holy land is now plagued by religious intolerance and divine afflictions. False faiths are destroying sacred idols, temples, and the eternal Sanatana Dharma. There is no righteous ruler who protects all religions and governs the people justly. So I am now hidden in this anthill. Since you are a true devotee and protector of dharma, bring me out, worship me, and you shall attain prosperity."
After this divine vision, the Lord disappeared, and Jayappa Gowda is believed to have built the temple.
According to elders, the main deity, Sri Someshwara Swamy, is a sage-installed idol (Rishi Pratishta). It is believed that offering vows and performing rituals to the deity grants devotees relief from hardships, fulfillment of auspicious events, and blessings for marriage and children. Devotees also seek relief from untimely death and birth-related afflictions by offering vows and performing rituals for dosha (defect) removal.
Offerings And Festivals
The main offerings to Lord Someshwara include Maha Abhishekam, Panchamrutha Abhisheka, and Rudrabhishekam, which are considered special and significant.
Every Monday, special rituals like Maha Abhishekam, decorations, and Maha Mangalarathi are performed. Other major events include Pradosha Puja every month, Maha Shivaratri, Karthika month poojas, Shiva Deepotsava, Brahmotsavam, Pallakki Utsava, and various other special pujas and festivals. The temple is located in the heart of Halasuru.
There is no information about which king, ruler, or local chieftain may have renovated or restored the temple over time. The main idol is sculpted from stone. The temple pillars feature intricate carvings of Ganesha, Shiva, Vishnu, and other artistic motifs.
During the Karthika and Magha months, it is believed that lighting lamps for the deity fulfills the prayers of devotees. Special blessings are also believed to be granted during Maha Shivaratri.
Inside the temple premises, there is a Kalyani (sacred pond), though devotees are not permitted to bathe in it. However, based on devotees’ requests, a ritual involving offering lemons to the deity in the sanctum is performed.