The Mahathobhara Shri Veerabhadra Swamy Temple located in Hiriyadka in Udupi, Karnataka is one of the historically significant temples of the Tulunadu region and is dedicated to Veerabhadra Swamy. The temple has a rich heritage and strong cultural influence in the surrounding areas. For centuries, its administration and rituals have been maintained smoothly by two traditional families — the Alva Hegde and Kurla Hegde lineages. Under their hereditary stewardship, the temple has gradually developed into an important spiritual center.
The temple is dedicated to the primary deities Lord Brahmalingeshwara and Veerabhadra Swami.
A majestic metal murti of Lord Veerabhadra featuring four faces is worshipped in the main sanctum.
Shrines for Goddesses Abbaga and Daraga are situated to the left and right of the main deity.
Rudra Ganas: Adjacent to the main arch are shrines for the members of the Rudra Ganas: Ghanta Karna, Gaja Karna, Mali Sumali, and Dandapani-Shoolapani.
Protective Deities: Bhootaraja is worshipped in stone form near the flagpole.
Bobbarya Daiva resides in the outer precincts.
Peripheral Shrines: Smaller shrines are dedicated to Pilchandi, Ganashala, Rakteshwari, Adakathaya Gudi, and Kshetrapala.
Ancestral Spirit: The site also includes installations for family daivas, including Pretakallu.
Historical Importance and Influence
The power and influence of this temple were once so great that offerings meant for the famous Dharmasthala Temple were sometimes received in Hiriyadka.
In earlier times:
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Disputes and vows related to Dharmasthala were often settled in the presence of Veerabhadra at Hiriyadka.
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Devotees sought justice and resolution through rituals conducted here.
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However, disputes related to Hiriyadka itself could not be judged in Dharmasthala.
This indicates that at one point in history, the temple in Hiriyadka held influence comparable to Dharmasthala.
Ancient Worship Traditions in Tulunadu
Like many places across the Tulunadu region, Hiriyadka initially followed Bermar (Brahma) worship, which was prevalent in ancient times.
The five primary divine powers worshipped here were:
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Bermar (Brahma spirit deity)
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Naga (Serpent deity)
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Rakteshwari
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Kshetrapala
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Mahishantaya
These Pancha Shakti (five powers) formed the original spiritual foundation of the site. At that time, the worship of Veerabhadra had not yet been established here.
The Arrival of Veerabhadra – A Fascinating Legend
The story of how Veerabhadra came to Hiriyadka is an intriguing legend preserved in local tradition.
The Brahmasthana near the temple was under the supervision of the Alva Hegde family from Padubhaga Beedu, located close to the present temple site. A Brahmin priest named Adakattaya performed the daily rituals for the five deities.
His daily routine was:
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Perform worship at the Brahmasthana.
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Carry the sacred prasada (offering) to the Alva Hegde household.
It was believed that Alva Hegde would not eat food until he received this sacred prasada.
The Incident that Changed History
One day, due to unforeseen reasons, Adakattaya was delayed while delivering the prasada after completing the rituals.
Angered by the delay, Alva Hegde harshly insulted and humiliated the priest.
Deeply hurt, Adakattaya vowed:
“I will bring a deity more powerful than these Brahma spirits and establish him near this place.”
Determined to fulfill his vow, he crossed the Western Ghats and travelled to Khandya near Balehonnur.
The Penance and Divine Encounter
There, Adakattaya performed intense penance and austerities to please Veerabhadra. His devotion eventually moved the fierce deity.
Adakattaya prayed that Veerabhadra accompany him back to his native place and reside there permanently. Veerabhadra agreed and began the journey back with thousands of Rudra ganas (divine attendants).
The Mysterious Procession
As Adakattaya descended the ghats and reached the region near Agumbe, two guards named Mali and Sumali were stationed at a toll gate.
They witnessed a strange phenomenon:
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From the hilltop they saw thousands of glowing torches moving down the slopes.
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But when the path reached the toll gate, only a single Brahmin walked past them.
Curious and astonished, they watched as once the Brahmin crossed the toll point, thousands of flaming lights suddenly reappeared behind him, moving forward again.
Perplexed by this supernatural sight, the two guards decided to follow the mysterious procession.
Establishment of the Temple
When Adakattaya reached Hiriyadka, he received support from:
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Alva Hegde
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Kurla Hegde of Anjaru Beedu
With their help:
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A grand temple was built for Veerabhadra.
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A special hall was constructed for the Rudra Ganas who accompanied him.
Thus the worship of Veerabhadra became established in Hiriyadka alongside the earlier Brahma traditions.
Deification of Adakattaya
After years of serving both Brahma spirits and Veerabhadra, Adakattaya eventually attained Brahmaikya (spiritual union with the divine) and became a divine presence himself.
Even today:
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Three daily rituals (poojas) are performed for Veerabhadra.
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Two daily rituals are offered to Adakattaya.
His spiritual presence is believed to remain active in Hiriyadka.
Worship of Mali and Sumali
The two guards Mali and Sumali, who followed the divine procession of Rudra ganas, are also honored in the temple.
They are worshipped at the Rajagopura (temple entrance tower) as guardian spirits.
Present-Day Significance
Today, the Mahathobhara Shri Veerbhadra Swamy Temple remains an important religious center in the Udupi district region. The temple continues to uphold:
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Ancient Tulunadu spiritual traditions
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Rituals connected with spirit worship and Veerabhadra devotion
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Hereditary temple administration by the traditional Hegde families
The temple’s spiritual energy reaches its peak during the Grand Annual Fair Festival or Jatre, a major festival held every year from April 16 to April 25.
The temple stands as a unique example of the blending of ancient spirit worship traditions with mainstream Hindu deity worship in coastal Karnataka.