Kadu Malleshwara Temple

Kadu Malleshwara Temple is a historic Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the Malleshwaram locality of Bengaluru, Karnataka. Built in the 17th century in Dravidian architectural style, it is situated in a bustling urban neighbourhood that derives its name from the temple. The temple is known for its stone pillars, Nandi statue and serene courtyard. It remains an active place of worship and a notable cultural landmark in northwest Bengaluru.

Visitors can expect a compact, active Shiva temple set on 2nd Temple Street in Malleshwaram with a gopuram entrance, pillared mantapa, stone Nandi facing the sanctum, and a courtyard surrounded by urban streets and markets. The interior houses the Shiva lingam shrine with traditional carvings and sculptures. The surroundings are busy with local shops and residential areas, while the temple precinct offers a relatively quiet space for darshan, prayer and observing Dravidian architectural details.

Built in 1669 CE by Venkoji, Maratha chieftain and brother of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, during the 17th century. The temple was constructed when the area was a dense forest, hence the name Kadu Malleshwara. It exhibits Dravidian temple architecture and is one of the oldest temples in Bengaluru, reflecting the region's history under Maratha influence.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva as Malleshwara, the temple is an important religious centre for Shaivites in Bengaluru. The name Kadu means forest in Kannada, referring to its original forested setting. It is especially significant during Maha Shivaratri and other Shaivite festivals, and remains central to the cultural identity of the Malleshwaram neighbourhood.