Kukke Subrahmanya Temple

The Kukke Subrahmanya Temple is a famous Hindu temple that is located in Karnataka, India. Lord Kartikeya, who is the lord of all serpents, is worshipped here as Lord Subrahmanya; and the temple provides tranquillity and peace like no other. It is located in the heart of the village of Subrahmanya, in Dakshina Kannada, and is surrounded by lush nature on all sides. The mountain Kumara Parvatha overlooks the temple adding a mystical charm. If seen geographically, Shesha Parvatha, a mountain shaped like a six-headed cobra, adjacent to Kumara Parvatha seems to protect the temple.

The Kukke Subrahmanya Temple is considered to be the abode of 'nagas', and pooja or prayer here is offered to Lord Subrahmanya, along with the serpent king Vasuki. Devotees also believe that the holy bath here in the Kumaradhara Thirtha and Madesnana eradicates dreaded diseases like leprosy. According to devotees, diseases related to the skin even get cured here.

The temple is also considered to be the ultimate place to attain salvation for all those who are suffering from any kind of 'naga doshas'. This is the ideal place for Naga Dosha Pariharam (remedy), by performing Sarpa Samskara Pooja, Ashlesha Pooja, and other such rituals. A lot of devotees from all across the country visit the temple for precisely this purpose.

History of Kukke Subrahmanya Temple

Kukke Subramanya is one of the seven holy places created by Saint Parashurama. Divine serpent Vasuki is believed to have taken refuge in Kukke Subramanya while being hunted by Garuda (legendary bird and official vehicle of Lord Vishnu). Lord Kumaraswamy and his brother Lord Ganesha are said to have killed demon rulers Tharaka and Shura Padmasurya in Kumara Parvatha near Kukke Subramanya. Post victory, Lord Kumaraswamy married the daughter of Indra- Devasena. All major gods attended the wedding event, bestowing divine powers to the place.

Architecture of Kukke Subrahmanya Temple

This temple building faces the eastern direction and the main entrance is present at the back of the Sanctum. Located in between the sanctum and the entrance of the temple is a silver-plated garuda Kamba (pole), which is believed to protect devotees from the poisonous breath of Vasuki who resides inside the sanctum sanctorum.

Present beyond this is two halls, the inner one leading to the sanctum. Located on the pedestal is a sculpture of Subramanya with Vasuki. A little below, one can find the idol of Sesha.

Dos and Don’ts at the Kukke Subrahmanya Temple

• Devotees visiting the Kukke Subramanya temple should abide by the below rules:
• One cannot enter without taking a bath or wearing a shirt, coat, or cap
• Products made out of animal skin should not be brought into the shrine
• Chewing tobacco, beetle leaves, or Gutka is prohibited
• A devotee cannot enter the temple if he has oiled his head or body.
• Female devotees should not enter the temple if pregnant for six months or more.