Kukke Subrahmanya retains crown as Karnataka’s richest muzrai temple

Mangaluru: With an annual income of Rs 167.8 crore in 2025–26, Kukke Shri Subrahmanya Temple has once again emerged as the richest temple under Karnataka's muzrai department, holding the top spot for the 15th year in a row.The revenue generated between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026, rose by nearly Rs 12 crore compared to the Rs 155 crore earned in 2024–25. During the same period, the temple's expenditure stood at Rs 85.2 crore.A major share of the income came from seva-related offerings and special rituals, which together contributed Rs 64 crore. Hundi collections amounted to Rs 24.6 crore, while direct offerings accounted for Rs 5.4 crore. E-hundi contributions added Rs 38 lakh, reflecting the growing use of digital platforms by devotees. The temple is known to attract several high-profile devotees, including Bollywood celebrities and sportspersons.Interest earned from investments emerged as one of the largest revenue contributors, generating Rs 49.1 crore during the year. Contributions towards choultry maintenance brought in Rs 6.9 crore, while the Annasantarpane fund accounted for Rs 9.1 crore.Other income streams included Rs 2.5 crore from contracts, Rs 94.4 lakh from rentals of buildings and shops, Rs 10.5 lakh from agricultural and plantation produce, and Rs 56.7 lakh through permanent seva deposits. Miscellaneous sources together contributed Rs 3.2 crore.In 2006–07, the temple recorded an income of Rs 19.7 crore. The following year, with earnings rising to Rs 24.4 crore, it became the highest-earning temple under the state's muzrai department. Since then, revenues have steadily increased, crossing the Rs 100-crore mark in recent years.Collections dipped temporarily during 2020–21 due to Covid-19 restrictions on pilgrim movement but rebounded strongly once normalcy returned.