Chalkapur Hanuman Temple: A sacred journey in life | Fusion - WeRIndia

India is home to many ancient temples where mythology, devotion, and living traditions merge seamlessly.

Among them, the Chalkapur Hanuman Temple near Bidar in Karnataka holds a unique spiritual place due to its rare form of worship and deep mythological roots.

The temple is famous for worshipping Lord Hanuman in three distinct forms during the day. In the morning, Hanuman is revered as a child, symbolising purity, devotion, and boundless energy.

By afternoon, devotees worship him in his youthful form, representing strength, discipline, and unwavering service to Lord Rama.

In the evening, Hanuman is honoured in his old age form, reflecting wisdom, sacrifice, and spiritual completeness.

This progression mirrors the human journey through life and reminds devotees of dharma at every stage.

Chalkapur is a small yet sacred village located in Bhalki taluk of Bidar district. It lies near the Manjra, also known as the Karanja River, a tributary of the Godavari.

Despite its modest size, the village radiates spiritual calm and natural beauty, attracting pilgrims throughout the year.

The name Chalkapur originates from Goddess Chalka, believed to eternally reside on Sanjeevani Hill near the village.

According to legend, this hill is a fragment of the mountain that Hanuman carried while bringing the Sanjeevani herb to revive Lakshmana.

Therefore, the hill is considered extremely sacred. At its peak, Lord Eshwara and Goddess Chalka are believed to be ever-present, blessing the land and its people.

In the village, Lord Hanuman is worshipped along with Lord Rama at the Atmaram Temple. Hence, the settlement came to be known as Chalkapur.

It is believed that holy cows and saints still reside at the foothills, continuously chanting mantras and meditating upon Hanuman.

The Chalkapur Hanuman idol is considered unique and immensely powerful. Daily rituals such as Kumkuma Puja, Alankara Puja, and Gandha Alankara are performed with deep devotion.

Bhajans sung here are believed to carry special spiritual energy. Devotees offer dakshina in rupees as an act of faith rather than obligation.

Two major Hanuman Jatras are celebrated annually, one during Deepavali and another on the full moon of Dhanurmasa.

Additionally, Chalkapur is revered as the birthplace of Shri Siddharoodha Swamiji, further enhancing its spiritual importance.

Thus, Chalkapur stands as a timeless centre of devotion, symbolism, and divine presence.

Image Credit: Mr nani mudiraj, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Image Reference: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hanuman_ram.jpg