Banashankari Temple

Built in 1915 by Somanna Shetty, an ardent devotee of Goddess Banashankari (also referred to as Amma), Banashankari Temple is one of the most prominent places of worship in Bangalore. The idol of Amma installed in the temple was brought here by Somanna from Badami in Bijapur district. One of the most unique things about this shrine is that the deity here is worshipped during Rahukala, which as per Hindus is considered as inauspicious. It is said that worshipping the deity during this time can eliminate all the hardships of life. Besides, a huge rush of devotees can be witnessed here on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays, which are considered as the most auspicious days for worshipping Amma. Devotees offer prayers by lighting oil lamps in half-cut pulp-less lemon. Every year in the month of December, a fair is organised to mark the anniversary of the shrine, which is attended by a large number of devotees.