Circle Maramma Temple-Bangalore
Circle Maramma Temple-Bangalore
Circle Maramma temple is at Malleshwaram in Bangalore.Maramma is the presiding deity here, commonly referred to as Circle Maramma.The small temple, which is almost always packed, is considered to be among the most popular in the city.
This has been a place of worship for over 100 years, though the actual temple was built only around 1948, by Narasappa. It is his family that runs the temple.
The temple, that welcomes devotees with the sculptures of deities, largely of the Devi (feminine, creative energy of the universe) in her various forms, is a landmark. Among the sculptures that stand out, are those of Durga, astride the lion; the Ardhanareeshwar, a representation of the balance of the material and the spiritual, the masculine and the feminine, in the universe; and of Shiva, receiving alms from Annapurna Devi, who makes her husband realise the folly of believing that either the material, or the spiritual is greater than the other.
According to local folklore, the powerful and benevolent goddess Maramma who was believed to protect the people of the region from various hardships and adversities. She was considered the guardian deity of the area.
The legend goes that the goddess Maramma had a devoted and virtuous devotee, and in return for this devotee’s unwavering faith and devotion, the goddess blessed the devotee with her divine presence. As a result, a temple was built in honor of Goddess Maramma at the site where she appeared.
Tuesdays, and Fridays are considered to be auspicious to the Goddesses Maramma, the presiding deity; Gangamma, a sister deity, (both of whom are widely worshipped in Karnataka); and Durga, all representing the sacred feminine, who are the three main deities worshipped in the temple.
The temple is known for its unique rituals and practices, which are rooted in this legend. Devotees often make offerings, including coconuts and other items, to seek the blessings and protection of Goddess Maramma. It is believed that by offering these rituals and prayers, devotees can receive her divine protection from diseases, evil spirits, and other misfortunes.