Uppinangady Sahasralingeshwara Temple Hosts Vedic Rituals for Purification, Led by Kemminje Nagesh Tantri

 

Uppinangady, June 28, 2025: The Shri Sahasralingeshwara Temple in Uppinangady, revered as Dakshina Kashi or the "Kashi of the South," witnessed a series of sacred Vedic rituals on Friday, aimed at purification and spiritual rejuvenation. Conducted under the guidance of esteemed temple Tantri Kemminje Nagesh Tantri, the rituals included Shatha Rudra Patana, Trikaal Pooje, and Suvaasini Pooje, drawing devotees to the temple located at the holy confluence of the Nethravati and Kumaradhara rivers. The ceremonies were organized as part of a prayaschitta (atonement) process, following suggestions from Prashna Chintana, a traditional Vedic consultation. The rituals, steeped in ancient tradition, were attended by key members of the temple management committee, including President Radhakrishna Nyack, members B. Krishna Rao Artila, A. Devadas Rai, Dr. Ramya Rajaram, Anita Keshava Gowda, former president Karunakara Suvarna, and former member Kangai Vishwanath Shetty. Prominent attendees also included Suresh Atremajalu, temple manager Venkatesh Rao, staff members Krishna Prasad Badil, Divakar Goud, Padmanabh Kulal, Krishna Prasad Devadig, and head priest Harish Upadhyaya.  

A Glimpse into the Temple’s History

The Shri Sahasralingeshwara Temple, located in Uppinangady, is one of the region’s most significant spiritual landmarks, often compared to Varanasi due to its sacred location at the confluence of two rivers. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple derives its name from the legend of a thousand lingas (sahasra lingas) believed to have been installed at this site. The temple’s history is deeply rooted in Vedic traditions, with its serene ambiance and spiritual aura attracting devotees from across Karnataka and beyond. Historically, the temple has been a center for religious and cultural activities, with rituals like Shatha Rudra Patana —a powerful recitation of Rudra mantras to invoke divine blessings—and Trikaal Pooje, performed three times a day, reinforcing its spiritual significance. The temple is also known for Suvaasini Pooje, a special ritual dedicated to women, symbolizing devotion and divine grace.

Recent Developments and Future Plans

In March 2025, Puttur MLA Ashok Rai announced a Rs 352-crore development project for the Shri Sahasralingeshwara Temple, inspired by the grandeur of the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. The initiative aims to enhance the temple’s infrastructure and promote it as a key pilgrimage destination alongside nearby sites like Kukke Subrahmanya and Dharmasthala. “We aim to attract devotees who visit these sacred sites and encourage them to include Uppinangady in their pilgrimage circuit,” MLA Rai stated. The temple’s management committee continues to play a pivotal role in preserving its traditions while overseeing its growth as a spiritual hub. The recent rituals underscore the temple’s commitment to maintaining its sacred legacy while fostering community participation.

Spiritual Significance of the Rituals

The Shatha Rudra Patana, a rare and powerful Vedic chant, is performed to appease Lord Shiva and seek protection from adversities. Trikaal Pooje, conducted at dawn, noon, and dusk, ensures the deity’s blessings throughout the day, while Suvaatini Pooje is a unique offering that celebrates feminine devotion. These rituals, led by Kemminje Nagesh Tantri, highlight the temple’s adherence to ancient Vedic practices, making it a beacon of spiritual heritage in Karnataka. Devotees and spiritual tourists are encouraged to visit the temple to experience its divine ambiance and participate in its sacred rituals. The Shri Sahasralingeshwara Temple remains a testament to India’s rich spiritual traditions, blending history, faith, and community devotion.

Keywords: Uppinangady Sahasralingeshwara Temple, Shri Sahasralingeshwara, Vedic rituals, Shatha Rudra Patana Trikaal Pooje, Suvaatini Pooje, Kemminje Nagesh Tantri, Hindu Rituals,