Ugra Narasimha Temple

Ugra Narasimha Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, located in Maddur town in Mandya District, Karnataka, on the banks of the Shimsha River. The temple is notable for its 7-foot tall black stone idol of Ugra Narasimha and its Dravidian and Hoysala architectural features. Originally built during the Chola period and later developed under Hoysala patronage, it is an important pilgrimage site on the Bengaluru-Mysuru highway.

Visitors can expect a traditional South Indian temple complex with a gopuram entrance, pillared mandapa, and sanctum housing the large Ugra Narasimha idol. The temple is situated near the Shimsha River in the center of Maddur town. The premises are relatively compact and include shrines, stone pillars with carvings, and an open courtyard where devotees gather for darshan and prayers. The atmosphere is that of an active place of worship with daily rituals.

The temple is believed to have been originally constructed during the Chola period and later renovated and expanded during the Hoysala period. It reflects the architectural transition between Chola and Hoysala styles. The main deity, Ugra Narasimha, is carved from black stone and is considered historically significant as an early representation of Narasimha in the region. Inscriptions and stylistic elements link it to medieval South Indian temple development.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, the man-lion avatar of Lord Vishnu, and is revered as a protective and powerful form of the deity. It is an important center of Vaishnavite worship in Mandya district. Festivals such as Narasimha Jayanti and Vaikunta Ekadashi are observed with special pujas, drawing devotees from surrounding areas. The temple remains an active part of local religious life.