The hill on which the Yellamma Temple sits is part of the Sidhachal or Ramagiri range, oriented east–west and overlooking the
Dharwad and Hubli are two other major towns which are at a distance of 38 kilometres (24 mi) and 58 kilometres (36 mi) respectively from Savadatti.[3][6]
History
The temple was built in 1514 by Bomappa Nayaka of Raybag (Bommappa Nayaka of Raibog).
potsherds of early historic redware dated to the 3rd century BCE to the 3rd century CE, in addition to megalithic blackware and redware. It is believed that the Yellamma fertility cult was prevalent here even during the Chalukyan period, following their taking possession of this region from the Kadambas of Banavasi.[2]
Another place of worship is the sacred "Yogarbavi Satyabamma Kunda" or tank at the lower end of the hill, where devotees bathe and put on new clothes before proceeding to the temple for worship. A notable custom observed here is called "Nimmana", which involves the circumambulation of the "Sathyamma Temple" with
neem leaves in their mouths.[6] The temple deity is also known as Jagadamba, meaning "Mother of the Universe" and is believed to be a form of Kali.[7]
The temple has been under the management of the Government of Karnataka since 1975. Facilities for pilgrims visiting the temples, like Dharmashalas (free guest houses), health centers, and other basic facilities, have been created by the government.[1]
Features
Renuka temple at Yallammagudda
The Yellamma Temple is built in the
Kannada language. She is a cult figure worshiped by the pastoral community of the Dhangar and Kurumbas of southern Maharashtra and North Karnataka.[2]
There are three water tanks or ponds at the back side of the temple known as Kumkum Kundam, Yoni Kundam, and Arihan Kundam. These are considered holy and are places where people bathe and offer worship. There is also a sacred well called the Jogal bhavi; the water of this well is believed to cure skin diseases. Another location adjacent to the temple known as Parasurama Kshetra is believed to be the site where Lord Parausrama sat in penance.[6]
Within the temple precincts stand shrines dedicated to Lord
Festivals are held at the venue of the temple twice a year during October to April. A very large number of pilgrims from Karnataka Andhra Pradesh, Goa, and Maharashtra visit the temple during these festivals.[1][7]
Media related to Yellamma Temple, Saundatti at Wikimedia Commons