Sri Bhadrakali Temple

Sri Bhadrakali Temple- Gokarna

Sri Bhadrakali Temple at Gokarna in Karnataka is dedicated to the Goddess Uma whose ‘Kali’ avatar or incarnation is worshipped in the temple. It is part of the complex of the Mahabaleshwar Temple. According to legend, the prime deity, Goddess Kali is the protector of the town.

The statue of the Goddess depicts Kali in a livid mode with huge eyes staring out in anger and with weapons in one hand. Mythological beliefs point out that the main reason for the existence of the temple was because Goddess Uma was discarded by Ravana and Lord Vishnu instructed her to remain indoors. This later took the form of a temple.

Another legendary tale says that Vetrasur, a powerful demon took hold of the three lokas. This compelled Lord Vishnu, Brahma and Shiva to create a “Trinity” God to demolish Vetrasur. They made her all-powerful and named her Durge. The Goddess destroyed the demon, and Lord Vishnu renamed her Bhadrakali. She went to Gokarna to protect the town upon the Lord’s instruction. And since then has become an important Goddess to Gokarna.

Over the years Bhadrakali Temple has gained the position of a temple where people plan and go because people believe that Kali Mata listens to all her devotees. The temple is a humble built structure and has statues of two lions and two warriors on either side of the entrance gate of the temple. Idol of the goddess is seen in her ferocious form with big eyes and four hands holding weapons.

The Bhadrakali temple is flocked by devotees mainly on Fridays.

Navratri is considered an auspicious festival celebrated with utmost zeal for nine days.