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Shri Veera Kallukutika Temple, Shankaranarayana

Shri Veera Kallukutika Temple is a regional daiva sthana (spirit shrine) located in the village of Shankaranarayana in Udupi district, Karnataka, India. The temple is primarily dedicated to the spirit deity Shri Veera Kallukutika, and is an important center for Bhoota Aradhane (spirit worship) traditions of Tulu Nadu.

In addition to the presiding deity, the temple also houses other regional daivas such as Yakshe, Kallamma, Panjurli, and Haiguli, along with several ganas (attendant spirits), all of whom are worshipped during kola ceremonies and other community rituals.

==Rituals and Worship==

The temple follows a distinct tradition of daily daiva aradhane (spirit invocation) and guidance-seeking rituals. A daily pooja is conducted at 3:00 PM, during which devotees with personal queries or grievances register their names with the temple administration before the ritual begins. They are then called in order to appear before a designated person believed to be possessed by Shri Veera Kallukutika, through whom the deity is believed to respond with guidance or solutions. The temple is particularly sought after for addressing concerns related to health, finances, employment, property disputes, and spiritual afflictions such as black magic.

==Annual Festival==

The temple's most significant event is the annual Kola, a traditional spirit-dance and oracle festival celebrated over three days. The festival begins on the evening of Chitra Pournami (full moon of the Chaitra month, typically in April) and continues for the following two days. During this period, elaborate kola performances are held in honor of Shri Veera Kallukutika, Kallamma and other deities, including Panjurli, Haiguli. These rituals involve traditional dance, drumming, ceremonial possession, and offerings, drawing devotees from across the region.

==Location and Access==

Shri Veera Kallukutika Temple is situated in the village of Shankaranarayana, located in Kundapura taluk, Udupi district, Karnataka, India. The temple lies approximately 35 kilometers east of Kundapura and around 100 kilometers north of Mangaluru, well within the cultural region of Tulu Nadu.

It is accessible by road, with regular bus and private vehicle connectivity from nearby towns such as Kundapura, Udupi, and Shivamogga. The temple is located along the main road within the village, and its approximate address is:

JV46+6Q5, Hole, Main Road, Shankaranarayana, Karnataka 576227

The area is known for its scenic hills and spiritual landmarks, and the temple is a recognized religious site visited throughout the year, especially during festival seasons.