Malali village is located about four kilometers south of Shantigrama, on the route from Hassan to Channarayapatna in Karnataka. The famous deity worshipped here is known as Malali Giddamma, also revered as Sri Lakshmidevi.
History of Malali Sri Lakshmidevi Temple
It is believed that the temple of Sri Lakshmi Devi dates back to the period of the Chola dynasty.
The Chola kings were great devotees of Goddess Lakshmi and are said to have
built this temple out of deep devotion.
According to local belief, the Chola rulers prayed to Sri Lakshmidevi for the prosperity and expansion of their kingdom.
They constructed this temple seeking divine blessings, wealth, strength, and
abundance.
After the Chola period, several local rulers and chieftains renovated the temple in different stages and continued the worship traditions.
Devotees believe they received the blessings of the Goddess through their service.
Beliefs and Devotion
The idol of Sri Lakshmidevi is considered a self-manifested deity (Udbhava Murti).
Devotees visiting the temple believe that their prayers and vows are fulfilled
sincerely by the Goddess.
Unique Features of the Deity
- The original deity of Sri Lakshmidevi is in the form of a self-manifested Lingakara shape.
- In front of it, a stone sculpture of Goddess Lakshmamma has been carved and consecrated in the form of Goddess Durga.
- This consecrated idol is worshipped as a powerful Shakti deity and is considered a form of Mahalakshmi.
- This is regarded as one of the special features of the temple.
People offer prayers for:
- Removal of difficulties and doshas
- Fulfillment of wishes
- Family well-being and prosperity
- Personal and spiritual desires
Devotees also make offerings such as:
- Sarees
- Ornaments
- Coins
- Bali and Naivedya (ritual offerings)
It is believed that sincere offerings and prayers lead to
the fulfillment of wishes.
Temple Rituals and Architecture
Special rituals performed at the temple include:
- Special Archana
- Kumkum Archane
- Abhisheka
- Ashwarohana Utsava and other ceremonies
The temple is located in the center of the village and
consists of:
- Garbhagudi (sanctum)
- Shukanasi
- Central hall
- Mukha Mantapa (front hall)
Special Worship Practices
A unique ritual at the temple involves Panchamrita Abhisheka
along with an offering made from five dry fruits:
- Raisins
- Cashews
- Almonds
- Dates
- Pistachios
These ingredients are powdered, mixed with jaggery powder,
and applied to the deity during worship.
Another important tradition of the temple is related to
healing and fulfillment of wishes.
Devotees suffering from physical pain or difficulties pray to the Goddess with
a filled pot of water.
Holy water is then sprinkled, followed by circumambulation (Pradakshina) around
the temple as part of the ritual practice.