Dharmasthala - the abode of Dharma

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To those that come for worship, Dharmasthala represents religious tolerance

wherein the caste, creed and faith of pilgrims are no bars. For here, the Jain

Theerthankara is worshipped on the same consecrated grounds as the native

Daivas and Lord Manjunatha (Shiva). The priests are Vaishnavite Brahmins and

the guardian of the temple a Heggade, a Jain by faith. Altogether forming a

confluence of faiths that harmonise in belief of the Omnipotent.

 

To those that come for justice, Dharmasthala is the scale that does not tip in

favour of a lawyer's glib tongue. Here, without any legal formality or argument

the Heggade dispenses justice, acting in the tradition of his ancestral role as

the Heggade and representing the presiding deities.

To those that come in need, Dharmasthala is an Oasis. Where succour, solace and

hope abound in the serenity of the temple and in the free hostelries that

provide food and shelter.

 

And to those that come in curiosity, Dharmasthala is a miracle of paradoxes.

Here ditterent faiths co-exist in harmony just as traditions make room for

experimental services. High or low, rich or poor, devout or atheist - at

Dharmasthala all are equal.

 

Assimilating all the apparent contradictions and keeping the essence of

Dharmasthala pure is the overwhelming responsibility of the Heggade. For over

800 years, the noble lineage has exercised its charity, catholicity and

singularity of purpose to build up this centre for religious and communal

harmony.

 

MORE AT : http://www.bangalorenet.com/dharma/

http://www.karnatakatourism.com/coastal/dharma/dharma.htm

http://www.udupipages.com/temple/dstala.html

 

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