Malemalleshwar Temple –Koppal

The Malemalleshwara Hill, extending to the west of Koppal city, holds mythological, historical and religious significance. It is named after the Malemalleshwara Temple located on the hill. Originally, “Male” meant hill and over time, “Male Malleshwara” evolved from “Malleshwara of the Hill.” According to local beliefs, this hill is also referred to as Indrakila Parvata from the Mahabharata. It is believed that Arjuna performed penance here, during which Lord Shiva appeared in the form of a wild boar to test him. A battle ensued between the two and after Arjuna emerged victorious, Shiva, pleased with his determination, blessed him with the Pashupatastra. At the top of the hill, there are traces of an ancient tribe called Morera, who lived here around 3,000 years ago. This site is also known as PandavaVataara or Vatlu. Remnants of burial practices related to this tribe can still be found, along with cave and rock carvings depicting human figures dancing in a line while holding hands, duelling bulls and colourful depictions of women. A natural lake, Kamala Sarovara, adds to the hill’s charm. It is filled with blooming lotus flowers throughout the year, making it a serene spot. On another side of the hill lies an Ashokan inscription from the Mauryan Empire. The rock bearing this inscription is called Palki Gundu. This inscription, dating back to the 3rd century BCE, is written in the Brahmi script and the Prakrit language. Though much of the inscription is damaged, it shares similarities with the inscriptions found in Gavimath. Additionally, several other inscriptions mentioning the names of Jain monks and householders can be seen across the hill. One notable mention is of Jain Acharya Simhanandi, who is believed to have undertaken the Sallekhana Vrata (ritualistic fasting unto death) here in 1008 CE, according to one of the inscriptions. The hill is also associated with Gavisiddeshwara, the 11th pontiff of Gavimath. It is said that he performed penance here as a young boy and displayed many miraculous feats. A cave on the hill is called Bheema Gavi, named after Bheemasena from the Mahabharata. According to legend, Bheema killed a tiger inside this cave, giving it its name. At the base of the hill stands the Malemalleshwara Temple, which has been fully renovated. The temple houses the Udbhava Linga (self-manifested Shiva Linga) and its history is believed to trace back nearly 1,000 years.