Sri Naga Bobbarya Temple Kundapura,Karnataka
Sri Naga Bobbarya Temple is located in Kundapura, Udupi district, Karnataka. The temple stands inside a traditional Nagabana (sacred serpent grove), surrounded by greenery, village pathways, and calm coastal surroundings that perfectly suit Naga worship.The main deity is Sri Naga Bobbarya, a powerful Naga Daiva of Tulu Nadu. He is worshipped for protection from Naga dosha, family wellbeing, ancestral blessings, land protection, and removal of obstacles. Devotees believe Bobbarya safeguards homes, lineage, and village harmony.
Architecture
The temple follows traditional Tulu Nadu Nagabana style. Sacred serpent stones are placed under ancient peepal and neem trees, with a natural grove forming the sanctum. The space remains open without elaborate structures, preserving purity of the land. A simple prakara is used for puja, bali, deepa, and milk abhisheka. The atmosphere is peaceful, natural, and spiritually charged.
History
Sri Bobbarya Temple has been a respected coastal spirit shrine for many centuries. Earlier, the temple stood near a huge banyan tree on the old NH-17 highway (now NH-66). During highway expansion, the shrine was carefully shifted slightly inside and rebuilt, maintaining its original sanctity.
A major historical discovery at the temple site is a 15th–16th century hero stone (Veeragallu), popularly known as Bobbaryana Kallu. The inscription is in old Kannada and mentions a brave personal guard who died in battle. This shows that the place has been spiritually and culturally significant for several centuries and that local history and divine worship have evolved together in this region.
Sthalapurana
Divine Origins
According to local belief, Bobbarya was a highly respected guardian of coastal communities in the Kundapura–Tulu Nadu region. Known for bravery, fairness, and compassion, he protected fishermen, farmers, and village people during difficult times. After his passing, villagers began experiencing dreams, visions, and miracles connected to him.
Becoming Naga Bobbarya
Soon after his departure, snakes were seen guarding the place associated with him. Families who prayed at that spot began to experience relief from long-standing problems. Understanding that Bobbarya had attained divine energy, locals installed Naga stones in his honour within a sacred grove. His presence manifested through snakes, and he became worshipped as Naga Bobbarya, a protector of land, family lineage, and justice.
Blessings & Beliefs
Devotees believe Naga Bobbarya protects them from Naga dosha, ancestral issues, health problems, and land conflicts. Many families narrate stories of receiving help during crises, floods, snake dangers, and unexplained family troubles. His blessings bring peace, unity, prosperity, and protection.
Festivals
Naga Panchami is the main festival, celebrated with milk abhisheka, bali, deepa offerings, and special pujas in the sacred grove. In some years, traditional Daiva Nema or Kola rituals are offered to honour Naga Bobbarya, where the deity is invoked to bless devotees and the village. Rituals are simple but performed with deep devotion.
