‘Mulabagilu’ (meaning Main Door) – the eastern auspicious door to Lord Balaji at Tirumala or the Eastern most frontier gateway to the State of Karnataka to the then Vijayanagar Empire has played an important role in the history of the region!
The ‘Battle of Mulabagilu’, the ‘First Mysore – Anglo Mysore War’ waged on 4th October 1768 between Hyderali (Tipu Sultan) and British was where the place ‘Mulabagilu’ or later anglicised to ‘Mulbagal’ was world famous! This region was ruled by the Gangas, Cholas, the Vijayanagar Kings, the Hyderali – Tipu Sultan succumbing to the colonial British.
Mulbagal today, unlike yester years. . . stays off the Bengaluru – Tirupathi – Chennai Highway (NH4). Earlier the highway would go through the town touching the famous ‘Temple of Lord Anjaneya’ – the Monkey God of Hindu faith and belief, Hanumanji – the ardent servile devotee of Lord Shri Ram!
There are many tales of miracles, belief and faith which are associated to this temple. It was believed that stopping at this Mulbagal Anjaney temple, praying and then proceeding to the Lord of Seven Hills, Lord Balaji would be more ritualistic and divine for one’s soul!
This simple town of Mulbagal today derives it’s economy from agrarian activities. It’s famous for the cucumbers grown out here. Muslim population out beat the Hindu and Christians, but they all live in peace and harmony. There are shrines of all faiths out here. Actors, Writers and politicians have sprung up from this region and contributed to the society’s progress!
It is believed that Arjuna established this Veeranjaneya Temple at Mulabagilu after the Mahabharata War on the advice of Lord Krishna in Dwapara Yuga. Lord Hanuman’s Image flag adorned the roof of battle chariot of Arjuna. As a mark of respect he honoured him in building this temple. He also drew the power of the flag to this 12 feet Idol. Today it forms a shield or a ‘kavacha’.
The rituals and prayers are followed in reverance from day one to this day religiously. A lot of miracles are seen and felt by ardent devotees. The growing numbers of devotees visiting each day prove the faith. Sage Vasista installed the idols of Sri Venkateshwara, Padmavati, Rama, Sita and Lakshmana. There’s also a metal lizard fixed on the wall of the temple, it’s believed that touching it brings luck and keeps you away from the doshas or bad luck! This temple was expanded and built by the finance minister, Raja Todarmal of Akbar’s court. His Statue is present at the temple complex even to this day.
Mulabagilu or Mulbagal is a 90 mins drive of 98 Kms from Bengaluru and 30 Kms from Kolar. Road condition and public transport connectivity is excellent. All toll-paying roads. Carry cash and water. Restaurants are on the highway. Have a divine experience begetting fame and fortune along with good health. This Veeranjaneya Temple at Mulabagilu is known for it. This region is Temple Tour Destinations.
-Jagdeesh Laxman Singh
aka Jugie Singh
Text & Photography
Mulbagal – Gateway City of Karnataka & Tirupathi – Tirumala !
