Madhur Sree Madanantheshwara-Siddhivinayaka Temple is a renowned temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Ganapathi, located approximately 7 km from Kasaragod town, along the banks of the Mogral River, also known locally as Madhuvahini. Although Lord Shiva, referred to as Madanantheshwara (the destroyer of Kama, the god of desire), is the main deity of the temple, greater prominence is given to Lord Ganapathi, whose idol is positioned facing south in the main sanctum. The temple’s priests belong to the Shivalli Brahmin community.The temple was built by the Mypadi rulers of Kumbla in the 10th century and was renovated later to its present form in the 15th century.
The temple’s origins trace back to its initial dedication to Lord Shiva as ShrimadAnantheshwara. According to local tradition, an elderly woman named Madaru from the Tulu Moger community discovered a naturally formed Shiva Linga (Udbhava Murthy) at the site. Additionally, the Ganapathi idol came into existence when a young boy sketched an image of Ganapathi on the southern wall of the sanctum. Over time, this image is said to have grown in size, earning the deity the affectionate name “Boddajja” or “Bodda Ganesha.”Historical accounts also suggest that during Tipu Sultan’s campaign in the region, he intended to destroy the temple, similar to other temples he attacked. However, after drinking water from the temple well, he abandoned the idea of demolishing the sanctum. To symbolically appease his soldiers and advisors, he made a sword mark on the building surrounding the temple well, a scar that remains visible to this day.
Architecture
The Madhur Sree Madanantheshwara-Siddhivinayaka Temple showcases a unique three-tiered Gajaprishta architectural style, resembling the shape of an elephant’s back. The lower walls of the temple are adorned with intricate wooden carvings of Lord Ganesha in various poses, highlighting exceptional craftsmanship, the temple features exquisite wooden panels that beautifully illustrate scenes from the Ramayana, adding to its cultural and artistic significance.
Entering through the grand eastern gopuram, a majestic and towering brass flagpost immediately stands out, exuding an aura of magnificence and reverence. Proceeding in a clockwise direction reveals the Sreekovil of Kashi Viswanatha, believed to have been consecrated by the Kumbla king after his pilgrimage to Kashi.Further along, the Sreekovils of Sri Shasta, Sri Durga, and Sri Subrahmanya come into view, each radiating divine significance.Advancing further leads to the Nadamandapam-Namaskara Mandapam, where the central sanctum houses the idol of Sadashiva, depicted in the form of a swan and facing west. To the left, the Arikkottika (sacred kitchen) is located, where offerings to Sri Bhagavan are prepared with devotion and care.
The major festival celebrated here are the Ganesh Chaturthi and annual festival called Madhur Bedi. Madhur Bedi is a colourful five-day event and on the fourth day, the utsava moorthi (Thidampu) is taken out in a procession.
The temple stands out for its distinctive three-tiered Gajaprishta architectural style, whose structure resembles the back of an elephant. This form, a hallmark of traditional Kerala temple architecture, enhances both the grandeur and the spiritual atmosphere of the shrine. To the north-east of the temple lies a beautiful stone-built pond, a fine example of Kerala’s traditional craftsmanship in architecture and sculpture. This pond, dedicated solely to temple rituals, serves as the sacred site for Sri Bhagavan’s ceremonial bath (abhisheka) and remains closed to the public, preserving its sanctity and ritual importance.
An important cultural feature connected to the temple is the Madhur Vetikkattu Paada, which historically served as a decision-making platform for the Harijan community. In earlier times, community leaders gathered here to discuss matters and resolve disputes amicably, a tradition that still continues. Even today, meetings are conducted at the same spot, followed by a visit to receive blessings and prasad from Sri Bhagavan the next day. Similarly, at the rear of the temple near the altar, there exists another platform associated with the Billava community. This platform once functioned as a communal space where members of the Billava community assembled to settle disputes and deliberate on important matters. It continues to stand as a testament to the temple’s enduring cultural and social significance.
Behind the temple lies the Puli Kallu, or “Tiger Stone,” a unique and symbolic feature. According to local tradition, this stone marks the spot where tigers and cattle once rested together peacefully, representing harmony, coexistence, and divine protection. Adding to the temple’s devotional character is the beloved deity Sri Mahaganapati, affectionately called “Boddajjan” by devotees. The name refers to his pot-bellied form and his fondness for offerings such as appam, pachappam, and modakam. Worshipped as the remover of obstacles, Boddajjan occupies a special place in the hearts of devotees, embodying joy, wisdom, and spiritual prosperity.
Local History and Divine legends
The Shiva Linga in the Sri Kovil is uniquely carved out of stone and has a scar on its forehead. This scar has a legendary story behind it.In ancient times, the region was covered with bushes, vines, and trees. One day, a Harijan woman named Madaru was husking rice when blood started flowing from the ground. Alarmed, she informed her community, and they, in turn, notified the king.
The king, accompanied by his entourage and the community, visited the site and declared, “This is no ordinary stone; it possesses divine power.” United, they prayed, “If this manifestation occurs at a renowned site with water, we will build a temple and worship there.”
Accordingly, the idol was found on the banks of the Madhuvahini River. The site was chosen as it was where tigers and cattle would roam together in harmony, having set aside their natural animosity.
The temple was constructed, and worship began. Even today, a stone, Puli Kallu, remains near the rear of the temple, serving as a reminder of the tigers and cattle that once roamed together in peace.
Travel Details
Nearest Railway Station: Kasaragod about 8 km
Nearest Airport: Mangaluru International Airport, about 61 km
References:
- · Srikanth. (2011). Madhur Sri Madanateshwara Vinayaka Temple. Integral Books.
- · Jayashanker, S. (2020). Temples of Kasaragod District. Sangam Books.
- · Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala. (n.d.). Madhur Temple. Retrieved October 15, 2025, from https://www.keralatourism.org/malabar/madhur-temple/158
- · Sarkar, H. (1978). An Architectural Survey of Temples of Kerala. Archaeological Survey of India.
- · Vaidyanathan, K. R. (1982). Temples and Legends of Kerala. Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan.
Amarnath K.P is a History and Archaeology professional with both academic training, research, and extensive field experience. He holds a Master’s degree in History from Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit and a Postgraduate Diploma in Archaeology from the Centre for Heritage Studies, Government of Kerala.