History and Legends of Male Mahadeshwara Hills

 The Male Mahadeshwara Hills are among the most revered pilgrimage destinations in southern India. Located in the Hanur taluk of Chamarajanagar district, these hills hold immense religious, historical, and ecological significance. The region is closely associated with the life and legends of Sri Male Mahadeshwara, who is widely believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Over centuries, the hills have evolved into an important centre of spiritual devotion, cultural heritage, and natural biodiversity.

 

Origins and Historical Background

Historical traditions suggest that Saint Sri Male Mahadeshwara lived during the 15th century, nearly six hundred years ago. According to belief, he arrived in the forested hills to undertake deep penance and spiritual practice. It is said that his penance continues to this day within the sanctum of the Male Mahadeshwara Temple, where he is worshipped in the form of a sacred Linga. 

The Linga enshrined in the temple’s Garbha Gudi is regarded as swayambhu, meaning self-manifested. This belief enhances the spiritual importance of the shrine and attracts thousands of devotees every year who seek blessings and spiritual fulfilment. 

Role of Junje Gowda in Temple Construction

The construction and development of the Male Mahadeshwara Temple are traditionally attributed to Junje Gowda. He was a wealthy landlord from the Kuruba community and a devoted follower of Sri Mahadeshwara Swamy. 

According to local tradition, Mahadeshwara once visited Junje Gowda’s home and performed several miracles that demonstrated his divine power. Impressed by these events, Junje Gowda became an ardent devotee and dedicated himself to serving the saint. He is believed to have constructed several temples across the Mahadeshwara Hills region. Even today, descendants of Junje Gowda are said to live in Kadamboor village in Hanur taluk, maintaining a historical connection with the sacred site. 

Legends Associated with Sri Male Mahadeshwara

Legend holds that Sri Male Mahadeshwara was born to Chandrashekara Murthy and Uththarajamma in the Madiga community during the Kali Yuga. In his early years, he is believed to have received spiritual guidance from the pontiffs of Suttur Mutt and Kunthur Mutt.

 

Tradition states that the saint travelled from Srisailam to the forested region that later came to be known as Male Mahadeshwara Hills. At that time, the area consisted of dense forests surrounded by seventy-seven hills arranged in seven concentric circles, making it a remote and dangerous place for human settlement. 

A well-known legend narrates that an evil king named Shravana, who possessed powerful black magic, had imprisoned several sages performing penance in the region. Sri Mahadeshwara is believed to have defeated Shravana, destroyed his magical powers, and freed the captive sages. The place where the sages were held captive is today revered as Thavasere, while the location associated with Shravana’s residence is known as Shravana Boli. 

Male Mahadeshwara Hills in the Puranas

According to traditional accounts found in the Puranas, the sacred hills surrounding the temple consist of seven peaks: Anumale, Jenumale, Kanumale, Kadumale, Pachchemale, Pavalamale, and Ponnachimale. Together, these peaks form the revered Male Mahadeshwara Betta. 

It is believed that Sri Male Mahadeshwara established a religious Mutt in this region to guide the spiritual and cultural life of the local communities. Through his teachings and miracles, he is said to have enlightened the tribal inhabitants of the hills, many of whom became his disciples. Their descendants continue to serve as hereditary priests of the temple. 

Natural Landscape and Administration

Apart from its religious significance, Male Mahadeshwara Hills are known for their extensive forest cover rich in sandalwood and bamboo. The region includes evergreen forests in the Ponnachi area and large stretches of dry deciduous forests. These forests support diverse wildlife, including numerous birds, reptiles, and mammals, with elephants being among the most prominent inhabitants. 

Historically, the temple was administered by Salur Mutt, which is believed to have been founded by the saint himself. In 1953, the temple administration was transferred to the Madras Government. After the formation of Karnataka state, the temple has been managed by a trust committee under the Karnataka Muzrai Department. 

Today, Male Mahadeshwara Hills remain a major spiritual centre, preserving centuries of devotion, folklore, and natural heritage in the heart of Karnataka.