Sometimes, the best journeys are the ones where history meets the road. This weekend, we embarked on an exciting road trip filled with heritage and patriotism, visiting the Halasi Bhuvaraha Lakshmi Temple and the Sangolli Rayanna Samadhi. Here’s a snapshot of our adventure.
Date: 24th September, 2022
Setting Off Post-Lunch
The plan was simple: start after lunch and let the road take us through Karnataka’s beautiful countryside. With a light breeze and cloudy skies, it was a relaxed drive.
Driving Past Khanapur Towards Halasi
We drove through the city roads of Belgaum and as we exited the city after the Mazgaon Industrial Area and towards Khanapur, the National Highway was under construction and lot many deviations from the highway to service roads and back, but the drive to Halasi was smooth, flanked by lush greenery that seemed to stretch endlessly. Khanapur, a quaint little town, was the last major stop before heading towards Halasi. The roads were bad from Khanapur to Halasi.
The winding roads beyond were a mix of scenic views and rustic charm, a perfect prelude to the historical treasures ahead.
Halasi, one of the ancient towns of Belgaum district, was also the 2nd capital of the then Kadamba Dynasty and then it became a minor capital under the Kadambas of Goa.
The Breathtaking Bhuvaraha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple
Nestled in the serene village of Halasi, this ancient temple built in the 5th Century is a stunning example of the architectural grandeur of the Kadambas.
Dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Varaha Avatar, the Bhuvaraha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple is over a thousand years old. The temple has 2 garbagrahas; the main sanctum has the idol of Vishnu in a sitting posture, and on the opposite side sits the idol Bhoo Varaha carrying the Bhoodevi in his mouth.
As I didn’t have a clear zoomed in photo of the deity, the above picture was taken from the Internet
The locals say the idols were Swayambhu; self-originated. The locals also believe that people who seek blessings here would be free of any Property-related hurdles.
Its intricate carvings and tranquil ambiance transported us to another era. The temple’s unique charm and spiritual vibe made it the highlight of our journey.
From Halasi to Nandgad
Our next destination was Sangolli Rayanna’s Samadhi in Nandgad. The drive was peppered with local sights and stories of the legendary warrior. Sangolli Rayanna, a freedom fighter and a Senior Military Commander under the Queen of Kittur, Rani Chennamma fought valiantly against British rule and is honored here with a samadhi and a memorial in the vicinity of the spot where he was hanged.
Standing there, at the site of his martyrdom, one could feel the weight of history. The memorial reminded us of the sacrifices made by countless heroes for our freedom.
The Banyan Tree where Sangolli Rayanna was hanged by the Britishers
“And as a living testament to history, one of his close associates planted a Banyan Sapling on Sangolli Rayanna’s grave still stands, fully grown, whispering tales of bravery and sacrifice to all who visit.”
As per historical sources, Sangolli Rayanna was said to be over 7 feet tall, and the grave is 8 feet in length.
Nearby, we noticed an ongoing construction site that will soon become a museum dedicated to Sangolli Rayanna. This upcoming museum promises to showcase artifacts and stories of the great warrior, preserving his legacy for future generations. It’s a wonderful initiative to honor his contribution to India’s freedom struggle.”
Heading Back Home
As dusk began to settle, we retraced our route back home. The journey left us enriched—not just with the sights we saw but also the stories and memories we carried.
Until next time,
Warm Regards:
Gokool Kini
(Soul Warrior)
Also visit: Family Trip to Banavasi – Capital of the Kadambas
