Durga Temple, Aihole – Legends

Durga Temple, Aihole – Legends

Arunasura:

As per legend, the place was hit by severe drought. The people were on the verge of giving up the dharmic traditions and even brahmins started eating meat. Sage Jabali found the reason behind the drought condition prevailing in this area. This drought was made by demon named Arunasura who escaped death and fled here when Goddess Durga killed Shambasura. In act of revenge, he had made the sages to stop all yagas.

Thus, leading to drought in this place for years. Further, Arunasura acquired a boon from Lord Brahma that he would not suffer death from any two legged or four legged being or from any weapon. Lord Brahma also powered him with Gayatri Mantra. After acquiring these powers, Arunasura defeated the devas and conquered heaven. The Devas prayed to Goddess Durga for help.

One day, Goddess Durga appeared in the form of beautiful woman in the palace garden of Arunasura. Enticed by her beauty, he approached her. Goddess Durga reminded him that she had killed Shambasura and his escape from her. Arunasura got angry and tried to kill the woman with sword. The Goddess suddenly turned into a stone. Arunasura slashed the stone with the sword, then a vast swarm of bees emerged from the stone and stung him.

Ayyo Hole:

As per legend, it is believed that Lord Parashurama after fulfilling his vow of avenging his father’s murder came down to the Malaprabha River and washed his blood-stained hands and the Axe. The river turned red due to the blood on the Axe. A local lady saw the red water and shouted Ayyo, Hole! (Oh No, Blood!) and hence the place came to be called as Aihole.

Ilavalapura:

It is believed that Sage Agasthya is said to have killed Ilvala, the brother of demon Vatapi here. Thus, the place came to be called as Ilavalapura.

Ayya Hole:

It is said that the name Aihole came from the words Ayya Hole, or city of scholars.

Other Names:

The place was also called as Ayyavole, Aryapura, Aivalli and Ayyhole.