Sampige Siddeshwara Temple Chitradurga Fort, Karnataka
Sampige Siddeshwara Temple is located within the historic Chitradurga Fort, in Chitradurga district, Karnataka. The temple is tucked beneath massive granite boulders inside the fort complex.The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Shiva, worshipped in the form of a Shiva Linga, and referred to here as Siddeshwara or Siddhanta. The temple is considered sacred by followers of Veerashaiva and Shaiva traditions. The presence of saints like Revannasiddha is linked to the temple’s spiritual heritage.
The temple is believed to date back to the 14th century CE, with additions made during the Vijayanagara period. Inscriptions suggest that structures like the entrance and swing frames were built around 1355 CE and 1411 CE by patrons such as Mallinatha Odeyar, a local chieftain under Vijayanagara rule. Though the temple may have older foundations, much of its present structure reflects medieval renovation.
Architecture
The temple is carved partly into the rock and features a mandapa (hall), sukhanasi (vestibule), and garbhagriha (sanctum). Just outside the temple lies a monolithic stone pillar, and two large stone swing frames which were likely used during processions or festivals. The main entrance (Gaalimantapa), built in 1355 CE, has a breezy open structure with carved columns. There are also beautifully carved reliefs and small shrines around the temple including images of Ganesha, Naga stones, Veerabhadra, and Allama Prabhu.
History
Sampige Siddeshwara Temple is one of 18 temples inside Chitradurga Fort, many of which were either built or renovated during the Vijayanagara dynasty. An inscription from 1328 CE records details about temple maintenance and offerings. Another record mentions that two villages were donated for temple upkeep by feudal lords under the Vijayanagara kings.
Sthalapurana
According to legend, the temple is named after the Sampige (Champaka) tree, known for its fragrant yellow-white flowers. It is believed that the rulers of Chitradurga’s Nayaka dynasty or their ancestors planted these sacred trees near the temple. The trees once bloomed in abundance around the shrine, and hence the temple came to be called “Sampige Siddeshwara” – Siddeshwara being a form of Lord Shiva, and Sampige referring to the flower.
Another belief connects the temple to the Veerashaiva tradition, a sect of Shaivism prominent in Karnataka. Great saints like Revannasiddha and Allama Prabhu, who are regarded as spiritual masters by Veerashaivas, are said to have visited or meditated near this temple. The presence of Veerabhadra, Allama Prabhu, Naga stones, and other Shaiva imagery within and around the temple suggests its role as a center of mystical Shaiva worship and spiritual learning.
The temple’s location—nestled under huge boulders—adds to its mystique. Locals believe that the temple is protected by divine energies and that the cooling shade and breeze flowing through the rocky corridors is Lord Shiva’s blessing in physical form. The swaying of the trees, especially the once-abundant Sampige, and the sacred winds (gaali) gave rise to the name of the temple’s entrance as Gaalimantapa (breezy pavilion).
It is also believed that the temple served as a place of spiritual strength for kings and warriors who prayed here before battles. The tranquil surroundings and powerful presence of Lord Siddeshwara were considered sources of courage and clarity for the people of the fort.
It is also believed that the temple served as a place of spiritual strength for kings and warriors who prayed here before battles. The tranquil surroundings and powerful presence of Lord Siddeshwara were considered sources of courage and clarity for the people of the fort.
Festivals
Maha Shivratri is the most important festival celebrated at the temple, drawing devotees from across Chitradurga. Shravana month (Sawan) Mondays are also observed with special poojas.
During Veerashaiva spiritual events, the temple may host gatherings, processions, and bhajans.
