On a small island in the midst of the Nandini river in the Dakshina Kannada region of Karnataka stands the Kateel Durgaparameshwari temple, a revered Devi shrine set amid flowing water and green hills. The Goddess is worshipped as Durga Parameshwari, and her legend tells how, to relieve a drought-stricken land and destroy the demon Arunasura, the Mother took the form of a swarm of bees (Bhramari) and manifested here upon the river.
A place of great natural beauty and deep devotion, Kateel is renowned for its tradition of Yakshagana, the vibrant temple theatre of coastal Karnataka, performed here in fulfilment of vows. Thronged through the year, Kateel Durgaparameshwari is among the most beloved Devi shrines of the Tulunadu coast.
