Koppala
Kerehalli Adi Hanumappa temple in Koppala district is calling for urgent revival and protection as its rich history and traditions face neglect.
It is located in Kerehalli area under Guddadahalli Gram Panchayat west of Hampi once known as Dindirigi Town and holds many ancient forts lakes temples and traces of old tribal settlements that show its past importance.
The main shrine of Adi Hanumappa lies near Tirdal Thimmappa hill believed to be a sacred place where devotees worship Lord Hanumappa also called Hadi and Bida Hanumappa who is deeply respected as a guiding deity by local farmers and villagers.
Locals believe the temple dates back to the twelfth century and connects to Gandugali Kumara Rama era with a Rama idol holding bow and arrow inside shrine here.
For generations farmers from nearby villages such as Guddadahalli Kerehalli Shahapur and Agalakeri have worshipped Adi Hanumappa especially before sowing crops during monsoon seasons believing the deity protects their fields and ensures good harvests.
However the temple has now reached a damaged condition and although devotees have recently repaired and continued worship there is a strong demand for the government and archaeology department to restore and protect this heritage site properly.
Devotees also speak of miracles associated with the shrine and nearby Lakshmi Devi site saying faith in Adi Hanumappa gives hope during struggles which is why large crowds gather every Saturday and on new moon days for prayers and offerings.
Every year a fair is held on the last Saturday of Shravan month at Tirdal Thimmappa hill where a traditional palanquin procession visits multiple temples and ends at Adi Hanumappa shrine followed by community food distribution.
The influence of saint Vyasaraja Tirtha is also seen in the region as he is believed to have spread devotion to Lord Hanuman across South India encouraging unity and worship traditions that still continue in villages like Kerehalli.
Local residents and devotees urge Karnataka government and archaeology department to repair the temple improve roads lighting and water facilities and ensure better access for pilgrims and tourists to protect this heritage for future generations ahead successfully.