Temple in news: Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple

Temple in news: Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple

Part of: GS Prelims and GS-I – Art & Architecture

In news 

• Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple in Gavipuram was in news recently. 
• For the first time in 50 years, sun’s rays didn’t fall on idol on Sankranti day.

Important value additions 

• Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple is also known as Gavipuram Cave Temple.
• It is an example of Indian rock-cut architecture. 
• This cave temple is dedicated to Shiva and cut into a monolithic stone.
• It is located in Bangalore, Karnataka. 
• It was built in the 16th century by Kempe Gowda I, the founder of the city.
• The temple is famous for its mysterious stone discs in the forecourt and the exact planning allowing the sun to shine on shrine in certain time of the year.
• Lakhs of devotees come in mid January every year on Makar sankranti Day to this temple. 
• This is a special day when the sun’s rays fall on the Shivalinga for one hour as it passes between the horns of the Nandi.