Shri Sada Shivarudra Temple (Ujire)

By: Koushik

Created: 03/06/2025 02:47

Last modified: 03/06/2025 02:47

Sadashiva Rudra Temple, Ujire: A Unique Shiva Shrine

The Sadashiva Rudra Temple, located in Ujire, Karnataka, is a sacred and unique temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in his Rudra form. Unlike most Shiva temples, this temple enshrines Lord Shiva’s face instead of the traditional Shivalinga, making it a rare and powerful place of worship.

Apart from its Rudra Puja and Sarpa Dosha Nivarana Poojas, the temple is also famous for its unique practice of clay article worship, a rare tradition that sets it apart from other temples. Devotees offer clay figurines to fulfill vows and seek divine blessings, believing that Lord Shiva will grant their wishes.

Significance of the Temple

The Sadashiva Rudra Temple is an ancient place of worship, known for its connection to Shiva and Naga (serpent) worship. Devotees believe that offering prayers here helps remove Sarpa Dosha (serpent-related curses), clear obstacles, and bring prosperity.

This temple is a powerful center of faith for those seeking relief from hardships, protection from negative influences, and fulfillment of desires. The clay article worship performed here adds a unique dimension to the temple’s traditions, attracting devotees from across the region.

Clay Article Worship – A Unique Ritual

One of the most distinctive features of the Sadashiva Rudra Temple is the offering of clay articles as a form of worship. Devotees create and offer clay figurines representing their wishes, believing that Lord Shiva will fulfill them.

What Do Devotees Offer?

Miniature clay houses – for those wishing to build or buy a house.
Clay vehicles (cars, bikes, etc.) – for those desiring to buy a vehicle.
Clay cradles or baby dolls – for couples praying for children.
Clay body parts (legs, hands, eyes, etc.) – for those seeking healing from illnesses.
Other symbolic representations – based on individual desires and needs.

Why Clay Figurines?

The tradition of clay article worship is believed to have originated centuries ago when devotees started offering earth-made objects as a sign of faith. Clay represents purity, humility, and the connection to Mother Earth, making it a sacred offering to Lord Shiva.

According to beliefs, once Lord Shiva fulfills the devotee’s wish, they return to the temple and offer another clay figurine in gratitude. This practice reinforces faith and devotion among worshippers.

Legends and Mythology

According to temple mythology, Sage Agastya is believed to have meditated here, invoking Lord Shiva in his Rudra form. It is also said that Lord Shiva instructed devotees to offer earth-made figurines to signify their wishes and devotion.

Another legend connects this temple to Naga (serpent) worship, where clay idols of snakes are also offered to seek protection from Sarpa Dosha (serpent-related afflictions).

Architectural Highlights

The Sadashiva Rudra Temple showcases the traditional temple architecture of coastal Karnataka, featuring:

A Unique Shiva Idol – Unlike other temples that have a Shivalinga, this temple has a carved stone face of Lord Shiva, making it one of a kind.
Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum) – The inner sanctum radiates divine energy and is the focal point of worship.
Naga Sannidhi – A shrine dedicated to Naga Devatas (serpent gods), where special pujas are conducted.
Clay Offering Section – A designated space where devotees place their clay articles as part of their prayer rituals.

Rituals and Festivals

The temple is known for its daily pujas and grand annual celebrations:

Rudrabhisheka – A powerful milk and water abhisheka (ritual bath) offered to Lord Shiva.
Sarpa Dosha Nivarana Pooja – A special ritual to remove Naga Dosha (serpent-related afflictions).
Clay Article Worship – A tradition where devotees offer clay figurines to Lord Shiva, symbolizing their wishes.
Maha Shivaratri – The biggest festival, celebrated with night-long prayers, bhajans, and Rudra Homas.
Kartika Deepotsava – The temple is illuminated with thousands of oil lamps, creating a divine atmosphere.

Nearby Attractions

Dharmasthala Manjunatha Temple – A famous Shiva temple, located just 10 km away, known for its grand annadanam (free meals for devotees).
Ujire Sri Janardhana Temple – A historic Vishnu temple, located nearby.
Kudremukh National Park – A breathtaking natural reserve, ideal for trekking and wildlife lovers, about 50 km away.
Charmadi Ghat – A scenic hill pass in the Western Ghats, perfect for nature lovers.

How to Reach

By Air – The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, around 70 km away.
By Train – The closest railway station is Mangalore Junction, about 65 km away.
By Road – Ujire is well-connected via NH 73, with frequent buses and taxis from Mangalore, Dharmasthala, and Udupi.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Sadashiva Rudra Temple is during:

Maha Shivaratri (February-March) – When the temple is filled with spiritual energy.
Kartika Deepotsava (November) – When thousands of oil lamps are lit, creating a mesmerizing sight.
Monsoon and Winter (June to February) – For a pleasant and peaceful pilgrimage experience.

The Sadashiva Rudra Temple in Ujire is a one-of-a-kind Shiva temple, known for its unique deity, powerful rituals, and the rare tradition of clay article worship. With its deep-rooted mythology, sacred ambiance, and spiritual significance, the temple is a must-visit destination for Shiva devotees, seekers of divine blessings, and those looking for solutions to life’s problems.

A visit here not only brings peace and prosperity but also allows devotees to witness and participate in a unique form of worship that connects faith with nature.