Why does this Indian temple open only for 12 days in a year

India is a land of temples, and every temple is a testament to cultural beliefs, religious practices, faith, and the vision of science in the form of impeccable architecture. Every temple has a unique history and story associated with it. Today, we will discuss a unique temple of Karnataka, which is dedicated to Goddess Hasanamba and is open for only 12 days in a year. Read to find out why.

As per the Government of Karnataka website, the Hasanamba temple is opened in the presence of the Deputy Commission for only twelve days in a year during Deepavali celebrations. The special feature of this temple is that the lamp lit this year will be alive till the temple is reopened next year. Even the flowers retain their freshness for the entire year. Devotees from across south India and Maharashtra visit the temple.

The inscriptions found in this temple state that the shrine of Sri Siddeshwara and Sri Hassanamba Devi were founded in the 7th century. The government website states that the main tower at Sri Hasanamba has been newly constructed in Dravidian style and there are three major temples on the premises of this temple dedicated to Darbar Ganapati, Hasanamba and Siddeshwara. Another prominent attraction here is the shrine dedicated to Kallappa. The three idols installed here are said to be of three thieves, who had allegedly come to steal the idol of the presiding deity, Sri Hasanamba, and earned her wrath. Earlier, Hassan was known as Sihmasanapuri and later it got the name of Hassan. It is said that during the rule of the Hoysala dynasty in the twelfth century A.D. an idol was found with its face wearing a pleasant smile. Hasana Mukhi or a smiling face was transformed into Hassan.

As per the website, Sri Hassanamba Jatra Mahotsav is one of the annual special Jatra festivals of Karnataka. It is believed that Sri Hasanamba is the Shakti Swarupini and according to the place's mythology, the Saptha Matras came to Hassan from Varanasi for an air excursion, including the Vaishnavi, Maheshwari and Kaumari deities living around the temple. Similarly, the legend says that Kenjamma and Brahmi Saptha Matras reside in various places of Allur and Hassan.

All Images Courtesy: https://hassan.nic.in/

Disclaimer: The information shared about the temple is based on available historical and cultural information available on government website; some details may vary across local beliefs and traditions.