Sri Durgaaparameshwari Temple Kateel - Mangalore

Located about 25 km from Mangaluru in Karnataka, Sri Durgaparameshwari Temple is an iconic site dedicated to Goddess Durga Parameshwari. Located on the banks of the Nandini River, the temple derives its name from two Tulu words—'Kati' and 'Ila'—highlighting its cultural roots. The temple is associated with a mythological story in which Goddess Durga appeared in the form of a bee to defeat the demon Arunasura, and the temple was established after his death. Built in the traditional South Indian style, the special feature of the temple is its ever-moist sanctum sanctorum, which is believed to be a blessing of the Nandini River. Several major festivals are celebrated at the temple, including the eight-day Mesha Rashi Parivartan in April, the festival of lights adorned with diyas on Kartik Panchami, and the nine-day festival celebrating the feminine power of Goddess Durga, which includes traditional dance-dramas and special puja rituals. And the temple continues the tradition of serving free meals twice a day to all devotees, regardless of the devotee's background.