An Eternal Oasis of Harmony and Tradition
Dharmasthala Mandir
xxx
Abstract :
Dharmasthala Temple, nestled in the heart of Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka, is a revered Hindu institution with a history spanning over 800 years. This article explores the temple’s fascinating origins, its unique blend of Hinduism and Jainism, the legend of the Dharma Daivas, and the exceptional harmony maintained by the Pergade family, who have been the hereditary trustees for generations. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of unity, faith, and tradition.
Introduction :
Dharmasthala Temple, a luminous gem in Karnataka’s spiritual crown, stands as a symbol of coexistence and unity. Its history dates back eight centuries, and it has gained prominence not only for its religious significance but also for its harmonious blend of Hindu and Jain traditions. The temple’s remarkable journey, guided by the Pergade family, serves as a testament to India’s diverse tapestry of cultures and faiths.
The Legend of Dharmasthala :
Eight centuries ago, Dharmasthala was a village known as Kuduma in Mallarmadi, Belthangady. Here lived Birmanna Pergade, a Jain Bunt chieftain, and his wife Ammu Ballalthi in a house named Nelliadi Beedu. The turning point in the temple’s history is marked by the arrival of celestial beings, the Dharma Daivas, who were in search of a place where righteousness (Dharma) was revered and practiced.
Birmanna Pergade and his wife, as hosts, extended their warm hospitality to these celestial beings. This gesture of genuine sincerity earned them the blessing and guidance of the Dharma Daivas. The divine beings appeared in the Pergade’s dreams and shared their purpose, urging them to dedicate their lives to the propagation of Dharma. Without hesitation, the Pergade family began worshiping the Dharma Daivas at Nelliadi Beedu.
The worship of the Daivas continued, and in another divine dream, the Daivas instructed Birmanna Pergade to construct separate shrines for four specific Daivas: Kalarahu, Kalarkayi, Kumaraswamy, and Kanyakumari. Alongside this, the Daivas also guided him to choose two individuals of noble birth to act as oracles for the Daivas and four worthy individuals to assist in the temple’s administration.
The Daivas promised Pergade and his family protection, prosperity, and widespread fame for the temple. They also requested the installation of a Shivalinga beside the native Daivas. Annappa Swamy, a loyal devotee, was chosen to procure the Shivalinga from Kadri Manjunath Temple near Mangalore. The construction of the Manjunatha temple was initiated around this sacred Shivalinga.
The Pergade Family :
The Pergade family, a Jain Bunt family, descends from Birmanna Pergade, the founder of the temple. This family serves as hereditary trustees of the temple, with the eldest male member assuming the role of Dharma Adhikari, commonly known as Heggade. The Heggade, besides the temple’s religious functions, was the feudal lord of the temple town, entrusted with resolving civil and criminal disputes. This judicial role continues to this day, as the Heggade adjudicates numerous civil complaints, known as hoyulu.
The Pergade family’s legacy of service to Dharmasthala Temple spans almost twenty generations. The current Dharma Adhikari is Veerendra Heggade. Their unwavering commitment to tradition, spirituality, and social welfare showcases the enduring spirit of unity and faith, transcending religious boundaries.
Conclusion :
Dharmasthala Temple is a testament to India’s rich tapestry of culture, tradition, and spirituality. Its remarkable history, guided by the Pergade family, illustrates the harmonious coexistence of Hindu and Jain traditions and serves as a beacon of unity. It is a timeless symbol of Dharma, reminding us that, in the diverse landscape of India, the values of righteousness, charity, and faith continue to thrive.
Editor – Kaalchakra Team
[ Note – Before Concluding anything as a Finale, Please Go through Original Scriptures of Vaidik Literature Written in Sanskrit and Also with Meaning of That time of Language. Because English is a Limited language to Explaining the Deeper Knowledge of Vaidik Kaal. ]