Why Karnataka’s 400-year-old Panolibailu Temple Is Revered By Locals

Panolibailu is a widely-known holy spot, which holds immense significance as a revered deity resides in it. Sri Kallurti Daivasthana, situated a short distance from Bantwal (Karnataka), stands out as a well-known pilgrimage destination. It is situated approximately 4 km from Melkar near BC Road in Bantwal, Dakshina Kannada district, and is renowned for its historical significance. Accessible via Marnabailu, this constituency has a rich past, with the area once abundant in palm trees. According to local citizens, the town earned the name Panolibailu due to the abundance of palm trees in the past.

Goddess Kallurti holds a significant place in the hearts of devotees. With a history spanning more than 400 years, the sacred grounds of Panolibailu bear witness to the revered presence of Kallurti. Devotees speak of instances where heartfelt prayers and appeals during times of hardship were met with divine responses. The benevolence of Kallurti is acknowledged, providing solace to many devotees whose deep-seated desires, entrusted to the divine mother, have been fulfilled.

The Agelu tradition, expressing love for Mother Kallurti, endures in the Tulu community. Panolibailu’s Mother Kallurti is known for her ability to alleviate difficulties. The consistent weekly attendance of over 5,000 people at the field further solidifies this tradition. Additionally, the holy place hosts Harakeya Kola, which features offerings like striped saris, silver, and gold. The continuous expansion of the holy place underscores the lasting reverence for Mother Kallurti.

In recent times, people from the Christian and Muslim communities have also visited Sri Kshetra Panolibailu to seek blessings and experience the purifying presence of Mother Kallurti. Devotees, regardless of their religious affiliations, travel from various parts of Karnataka to witness the divine mother. She warmly embraces those dedicated to their true faith, offering support in her benevolent presence. It is suggested that every person must visit the Sri Kshetra Panolibailu temple to attain her blessings.

Other than this, Panjurli, a divine spirit embodying a male wild boar, is venerated in the rituals of Bhuta Kola. In Tulu, Panjurli translates to the offspring of a wild boar. In Tulunad, where the abundance of wild boars posed a threat to cultivated crops, farmers adopted the practice of worshipping the spirits of wild boars to address and alleviate these challenges.