Temple that was built by thieves in Telangana | Fusion - WeRIndia

India, known for its diverse cultures and traditions, holds within its tapestry a peculiar story that unfolds in the Mallanna Peta village of Gollapally Mandal in Jagityala district, Telangana.

Here stands a Shiva temple with a twist, which was built by thieves over a millennium ago.

In a night that echoes through history, two thieves found themselves in Mallanna Peta, having stolen two cows.

In an act of audacious faith, they whispered to the Shivalinga, vowing to construct a temple if they could escape undetected.

As they fled with the pilfered cows, an astonishing transformation occurred, the cows changed colour, eluding the villagers’ pursuit.

Convinced that the Shiva deity had intervened on their behalf, the thieves fulfilled their promise by constructing the temple overnight and swiftly disappearing.

The grateful locals, acknowledging the divine intervention, named the temple “Donga Mallanna”. “Donga” translates to “thief”.

Over the centuries, the temple witnessed growth and development under the patronage of various kings.

Today, it stands as a living testament to an unusual pact between thieves and the divine.

The Konduru clans oversee the temple’s festivities, drawing devotees from across Telangana to experience the spiritual aura.

Situated 12 km from Jagityala town, the Donga Mallanna temple allows worshippers to pay homage to Lord Shiv. In addition, it features other revered idols as well.

Among its distinctive aspects, devotees hold a belief that praying with a new crop in a new pot fulfils their wishes.

This ancient temple, cloaked in the mystique of its origin, continues to captivate visitors. The temple offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and an extraordinary tale that transcends time.

As pilgrims converge to seek blessings and witness the divine, the Donga Mallanna temple remains a living legacy of the unexpected, where thieves once became builders in the name of faith.

Photo by Sharath G.: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-close-up-shot-of-a-white-cow-5867871/ (CC)

Image Reference: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-close-up-shot-of-a-white-cow-5867871/