Mangalore, located on the west coast of India, is a port city known for its pristine beaches, beautiful temples, and delectable seafood. With a rich history that dates back to the 6th century, this city offers a unique blend of old and new. From exploring ancient temples to savoring the local delicacies, there′s something for everyone in Mangalore.
The main port of Karnataka
Located 350 km west of the state capital, Bangalore, on the Malabar coast of the Arabian Sea at the foot of the Western Ghats. It is the administrative center of Dakshina Kannada (formerly South Kannada) district in southwest Karnataka. With pristine beaches, wide roads and quiet neighborhoods, Mangalur is recognized as the 8th cleanest city in India. Mangalur is one of the 13 best cities to do business in India and 2nd in Karnataka (after Bangalore).
Mangalore, a port city in the Indian state of Karnataka, has a rich cultural heritage and is steeped in mythology and legend. One such legend is the story of Goddess Mangaladevi, who is said to be the patron deity of the city.
According to the legend, Mangalore was originally a dense forest inhabited by wild animals. A local king, fearing for the safety of his subjects, sought the help of a wise sage to find a solution. The sage advised the king to perform a yajna, a sacred fire ritual, and offer prayers to the goddess to seek her protection.
The king followed the sage's advice and performed the yajna, inviting the goddess to come and bless the land. Pleased with the king's devotion, the goddess appeared in his dreams and instructed him to build a temple in her honor in a place where he would find a cow grazing with a golden ear tag. The king followed her instructions and found the cow grazing in the forest. He built a temple at that spot and named the city Mangalapuram, after the goddess Mangaladevi.
Over the centuries, the city grew around the temple, and Mangalore became an important port for trade and commerce. The temple remains a popular pilgrimage site, and the annual Mangaladevi Temple Festivals attract thousands of devotees from all over the region.
The legend of Goddess Mangaladevi is still alive in the hearts of the people of Mangalore, and her blessings are sought by all those who seek prosperity and good fortune. The city's rich cultural heritage and mythology continue to thrive and contribute to its vibrant and unique character.