Pranaveshwara Temple Talagunda,Karnataka

Pranaveshwara Temple is an ancient Shiva temple located in Talagunda, near Sagar in Shivamogga District, Karnataka. The Pranaveshwara Linga his believed to be very powerful and sacred, representing Lord Shiva in his eternal form.

Talagunda was once a famous center of Vedic learning, where many scholars and sages lived. The temple was a place for meditation and worship, especially for Brahmins and ascetics who studied the Vedas.

The name “Pranaveshwara” comes from “Pranava” (Om), which means that Lord Shiva is the source of all cosmic energy. The temple is believed to have been built during the Kadamba dynasty (4th–6th century CE).

It is built in the Dravidian style, with a simple yet elegant structure. The temple is made of stone with intricate carvings, though it is plainer compared to later temples. A major stone inscription found here gives important historical details about the Kadamba dynasty. This inscription, written in Sanskrit and Kannada, states that Mayurasharma (Mayuravarma), a Brahmin, founded the Kadamba dynasty.

Sthalapurana

According to legend, the Shiva Linga at Pranaveshwara Temple is self-manifested (Swayambhu) and has been worshipped since ancient times. The name “Pranaveshwara” comes from “Pranava” (Om), which means that Lord Shiva is the source of all cosmic energy.

The most well-known legend of this temple is connected to Mayurasharma, a Brahmin scholar who later became the founder of the Kadamba dynasty in the 4th century CE. It is believed that Mayurasharma was a devoted follower of Lord Shiva and performed intense penance at this temple, seeking divine blessings.

With Lord Shiva’s blessings, he took up arms and established the first Kannada-speaking dynasty, the Kadambas of Banavasi.

Devotees believe that praying at Pranaveshwara Temple removes obstacles and brings wisdom and success.