Introduction
The Sri Renuka
Yellamma Temple, located near Saundatti town in Belgaum district,
Karnataka, is one of the most revered shrines dedicated to Goddess
Renuka Devi, wife of Sage Jamadagni and mother of Lord Parashurama. Built
in 1514, the temple is steeped in mythology and continues to attract
lakhs of devotees, especially during its grand festivals.
Legends &
Significance
- Renuka Devi’s Devotion:
Renuka Devi, known for her pativrata dharma, fetched water daily
from the Malaprabha River using a pot made of sand, supported by a snake
coil.
- Loss of Concentration:
One day, she lost focus after seeing Gandharvas play in the river, failing
to make the pot. Sage Jamadagni, angered, cursed her.
- Parashurama’s Obedience:
Ordered by his father, Parashurama beheaded his mother. Miraculously, her
head multiplied across regions, leading to widespread worship of Renuka
Devi.
- Mother of Parashurama:
Renuka Devi is revered as one of the Saptamatrikas and worshipped
as Yellamma, symbolizing sacrifice, devotion, and divine
motherhood.
Temple Features
- Architecture:
Built in North Karnataka style, notable for having no
Rajagopuram.
- Sacred Well:
Jogal Bhavi, considered holy.
- Sacred Tanks:
- Kumkum Kundam
- Yoni Kundam
- Arihan Kundam
Devotees believe bathing here cures skin diseases. - Other Shrines:
Lord Parashurama, Lord Ganesh, Mallikarjuna Swamy, and others.
Rituals & Customs
- Nimmana Ritual:
Devotees circumambulate the Sathyamma Temple with neem leaves in
their mouth, symbolizing purification and devotion.
- Offerings:
Devotees worship at the sacred tanks and offer prayers to Renuka Devi and
other deities.
Festivals
- Major festivals are celebrated from October
to April, drawing thousands of devotees.
- Rituals include grand poojas,
vahanasevas, and community celebrations honoring Renuka Devi.
Temple Timings
- Morning:
6:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Evening:
6:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Getting Here
- Location:
Near Saundatti town, Belgaum district, Karnataka.
- By Road:
Well connected by buses and taxis from Belgaum and Hubli.
- By Rail:
Nearest station – Belgaum Railway Station (~70 km).
- By Air:
Hubli Airport (~80 km) or Belgaum Airport (~70 km).
Tips for Devotees
- Take a holy dip in the three
sacred tanks for blessings and healing.
- Participate in the Nimmana ritual
for spiritual merit.
- Visit during festival season
(Oct–Apr) for vibrant celebrations.
- Respect temple traditions and dress
modestly.
Why Visit Sri Renuka
Yellamma Temple?
- Ancient temple built in 1514.
- Dedicated to Renuka Devi, mother
of Parashurama.
- Unique features: Jogal Bhavi well
and three sacred tanks.
- Rich legends tied to Parashurama
and Jamadagni.
- Major festivals celebrated with grandeur.