The sacred Shivalinga of Kapileshwar – a self-manifested symbol of divine power and timeless devotion.
Kapileshwar Temple – The Kashi of the South in Belagavi
Located in the heart of Belagavi city, Kapileshwar Temple is one of the oldest and most revered Shiva temples in Karnataka, often referred to as the “Dakshin Kashi” or Southern Kashi. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple holds immense spiritual significance and is said to be the starting point for any pilgrimage to the 12 Jyotirlingas across India. It’s believed that the Shivalinga here is Swayambhu (self-incarnated), making it a unique and powerful center of divine energy.
For Reference: https://www.tripadvisor.in/ShowUserReviews-g737165-d4139016-r955995206-Kapileshwara_Temple-Belgaum_Belgaum_District_Karnataka.html
Historical records, including inscriptions found in the nearby Kamal Basti, trace the temple’s origins as far back as 1000–1204 A.D. Local legends attribute its establishment to the sage Kapil Muni, giving the temple its name “Kapileshwar.” The architecture of the temple reflects a Maharashtrian style, simple yet elegant, and it creates a serene space ideal for introspection and devotion. Unlike many temples, here devotees are allowed to come up close to the Shivalinga, much like in Kashi, enhancing their connection with the divine.
The temple compound features a rare cluster of Banyan, Peepal, and Ficus trees, adding to the sacredness and tranquility of the space. Rituals like Rudra Abhisheka and Panchamrutha Abhisheka are performed regularly, with special gatherings and bhagavatha sessions held in the evenings. The temple sees a massive influx of devotees during Mahashivaratri, when it becomes a vibrant center of prayer, light, and devotion.
Kapileshwar Temple is easily accessible via public buses from the central bus stand, and its location beside the Shahpur Flyover makes it convenient for both locals and tourists. The temple is open daily from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM, offering visitors ample time to explore, pray, and connect with its powerful energy.
Notably, this sacred site has drawn great souls over the centuries, including Adi Shankaracharya, Swami Vivekananda, Mahatma Gandhi, and Bal Gangadhar Tilak, all of whom found spiritual peace here. A visit to Kapileshwar Temple is not just a religious stop—it is an experience that revives the soul and strengthens inner faith.
