Santebennur Pushkarani is a famous historical pond located in Santebennur village of Davangere district. Pushkarani is a tank or pond built in the temple premises. Pushkarani pada is also known as lotus pond. Santebennur Pushkarini, locally known as Santebennur Honda, Santebennur Pushkarini is worshiped as the gateway to spiritual elevation. The mundane is a place that gives way to the sacred and is believed to be a reminder of the enduring power of devotion and the transformative potential of the sacred at its core.
Santebennur Pushkarini is located in Santebennur in Channagiri Taluk of Davangere district. It is 22 km from Channagiri. It is 38 km away from Andavanagere city. And it is about 260 km away from Bangalore.
History
According to history, in the 16th century AD, Kenga Hanumanthappa Nayaka built a temple in this area for his clan deity Sri Rama. The Vasant Mantapa at the center of Pushkarini is believed to have been built to commemorate Kenga Hanumanthappa Nayaka’s victory over the Bahmani kings of Bijapur.
This Pushkarini is 250 feet long and 240 feet wide. And the depth is more than 30 feet. Granite steps are built on the sides. Originally there were eight towers, but now only six remain. At the center of the pond is the Vasantha Mantapa, also known as Karanji (Fountain) Mantapa, a pillared tower built in the Indo-Arabic style of architecture.
It is constructed using granite, brick and mortar. Covering an area of about 34 square feet, this multi-level tower is designed in such a way that it appears to be floating in the water when viewed from the bank of the pond. The mandap’s arches and domes are built in the Arabic style of architecture and its columns, pyramid towers and carvings are built in the Indian style. According to local people, when the pond is full, the water covers the mandapa up to 10 feet high.
Santhebennur Pushkarini holds immense spiritual significance for the local community. It is considered a holy place and is frequently visited by devotees seeking blessings and spiritual solace. The serene atmosphere, with the soothing sound of the water, creates a meditative atmosphere that allows visitors to connect with their inner selves. Various religious festivals and rituals are also performed at Pushkarini, further enhancing its spiritual aura.
