Mallikarjuna Temple is one of the most visited pilgrim centres in the Kasargod district. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Mallikarjuna. It is believed that the idol belonged to Arjuna, one of the Pandavas in the epic, Mahabharata. The temple construction dates back to the seventeenth century, which later stood unnoticed for several years. The location was also shifted for the construction of the railway line. But most of the important structures were rebuilt by the renovation committee.
The temple comprises a sreekovil, namaskara mandapam, chuttambalam, valiya-balikkal and maryaada with enormous arches. The paintings within the inner walls of the temple are extremely beautified with colour and patterns mesmerizing the devotees. Mallikarjuna Temple is quite famous for its Yakshagana festival and musical theatre. Vinayaka Chaturthi or Ganesha Chaturthi that takes place in August – September for 10 long days is a real celebration for the people in Kasargod with grandeur.
To mark the beginning of the festival the idol of Ganesha is taken out from the Veera Hanuman Temple, followed by a grand procession and gets installed at the Mallikarjuna Temple. A lot of cultural dance and musical performances are conducted on festival days. Ladoos and modaks are the offerings given by the devotees to their favourite deity as they are Ganesha’s favourites. On festive days, the idol is decorated with fresh flowers and clothes. A visit to this Ganesha temple would be unique in its very essence.
