MONTETHADKA SHIBAJE

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Montethadka (ಮೊಂಟೆತಡ್ಕ): Origin, History & Devotion to Sri Durga Parameshwari Amma

Montethadka (ಮೊಂಟೆತಡ್ಕ) is a spiritually significant place deeply connected with the worship of Sri Durga Parameshwari Amma. The name Montethadka itself originated from the powerful devotion of village people and the unique ex-voto (ಹರಕೆ) tradition of offering cow bells made of bamboo (ಮೊಂಟೆ) to the Goddess.

This sacred tradition reflects the strong bond between faith, nature, cattle protection, and village life.

Origin of the Name Montethadka (ಮೊಂಟೆತಡ್ಕ)

The name Montethadka came into existence due to:

  • The growing popularity of Sri Durga Parameshwari Amma

  • The ancient practice of offering bamboo cow bells (ಮೊಂಟೆ) as a sacred vow

Devotees offered these bamboo cow bells to the Goddess after praying for the protection of cows from tigers and other wild animals that once roamed freely in the surrounding forest areas.

Over time, this unique devotional practice became so well known that the place itself came to be called Montethadka, meaning the land associated with Monte (bamboo cow bells).

Significance of Monte (ಮೊಂಟೆ) – Bamboo Cow Bell

Monte (ಮೊಂಟೆ) is a traditional cow bell made from natural bamboo, tied around the neck of cows to create sound. In ancient village life, this sound helped:

  • Identify cattle movement

  • Protect cows from predators

  • Maintain harmony between humans, animals, and nature

When cows were saved from danger, devotees expressed gratitude by offering Monte as Harake (ಹರಕೆ) to Sri Durga Parameshwari Amma.

MONTETHADKA SHIBAJE


Monte as Ex-Voto (ಹರಕೆ) to the Goddess

The offering of bamboo cow bells is a symbolic act of:

  • Thanksgiving for divine protection

  • Faith in the Goddess as a protector of cattle

  • Surrender and humility before Durga Matha

Even today, many bamboo cow bells can be seen hanging inside the temple, serving as living evidence of this centuries-old tradition and the unwavering faith of the villagers.

Worship of Sri Durga Parameshwari Amma

The village people of Montethadka worship Sri Durga Parameshwari Amma as:

  • The supreme protector

  • The guardian of cattle and village life

  • The destroyer of fear and evil forces

Daily poojas, special sevas, and annual festivals are performed with deep devotion. The Goddess is believed to continue protecting livestock, families, and the entire village.

Bamboo Monte at Montethadka Shibaje Temple


Cultural & Spiritual Importance of Montethadka

Montethadka stands as a rare example where:

  • Devotion shaped the identity of a place

  • Temple traditions preserved ecological balance

  • Faith connected humans, animals, and nature

This sacred land represents the essence of rural Karnataka’s spiritual heritage.

The name Montethadka (ಮೊಂಟೆತಡ್ಕ) was came to this place due to the popularity of Durga Matha and the exvoto (ಹರಕೆ) of Cow bell made of bamboo (ಮೊಂಟೆ) is presented to Sri Durgaparameshwari Amma for saving the cows from the tigers and other animals. Still you can find many cow bells hanging in temple which is made up of Bamboo. The village people worship Sri Durgaparameshwari Amma. 

Kumara–Kumarthi Shile 

Kumara–Kumarthi Shile is a sacred stone worshipped in many traditional temples and in Shibaje Durga Parameshwari The Kumara Kumarthi shile have a story Behind it, when Durga Parameshwari Devi Gives Shapa to a Billava Husband wife they became shile

Conclusion

Montethadka (ಮೊಂಟೆತಡ್ಕ) is not just a place name—it is a symbol of faith, gratitude, and divine protection. The tradition of offering bamboo cow bells (ಮೊಂಟೆ) as Harake (ಹರಕೆ) to Sri Durga Parameshwari Amma highlights the deep devotion of village people who trusted the Goddess to protect their cows from tigers and other wild animals.

Even today, the hanging bamboo cow bells in the temple stand as a powerful reminder of the Goddess’s grace and the timeless faith of her devotees.

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