Kateel Durgaparameshwari Temple, Mangalore Overview

Kateel Shri Durgaparameshwari Temple is one of the holiest temples in the region. The dominant feature of the temple that attracts people in large numbers is that it is situated on an islet in the middle of River Nandini amidst the serene natural landscape. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga Parameshwari and is located at a distance of 27 kilometres from Mangalore.

When visiting the temple, one must take a moment out to appreciate the panoramic view of the location, especially during the monsoon season. The temple has spacious areas and is exceptionally well maintained by the management. Devotees can pray, chant mantras or just sit and soak the divine ambience of the deity as the mesmerising river flows all around the Kateel Durgaparameshwari Temple. This is the attraction to visit for those who are seeking spiritual escape in the city.

How To Reach Kateel Durgaparameshwari Temple

Kateel Durgaparmeshwari Temple is easily accessible by road via SH67 and Bajpe Road. City buses or auto-rickshaws are the best modes of public transport. From the city centre, take the route via Bajpe Kavoor Road and head towards Maidan 1st Crossroad. Then turn left onto Airport Road/ Bajpe Road/ SH6 and travel for about 7.5 kilometres before taking a slight right turn at Police Check Post Tharikambla. Then travel for about 10 kilometres to reach Kateel where the temple is located.

History of Kateel Devi

Kateel Duragparameshwari Temple — Source

Legend says when Goddess Shakti defeated the demons, Shumbha and Nishumbha, their minister, Arunasura, fled and gathered more demons. He became the king of these demons and started creating havoc on earth. The Gods stopped the rains to make the demons stop. However, it caused more destruction because people on the planet were starving. This initiated cannibalism and looting on a large scale. Maharishi Jabali requested Lord Brahma to help them by sending the holy cow, Kamdhenu, to complete a ritual to please the Gods that had stopped the rains. Kamdhenu was not available and decided to send her daughter, Nandini. She, however, refused and this angered the Maharishi who cursed her to flow as River Nandini on the planet.

Nandini, scared, pleaded Goddess Shakti to help her. The Goddess promised Nandini that she will take birth from her and will eventually help her relieve herself off of the curse. While all this happened, Arunasura had started performing penance to seek immortality from Lord Brahma. Upon getting this wish, Arunasura defeated Lord Indra who requested Adishakti to help him. Goddess Shakti agreed, but Arunasura had to become an atheist to be able to defeat him. Brihaspati helped Adishakti to make Arunasura convert into an atheist. Later on, Adishakti took the avatar of Mohini to enchant Arunasura. Arunasura fell for her and persuaded her, but she refused and entered a rock which he broke. The Goddess took the form of Bhramara, a bee, and stung him till he died.