Mylara cult : Discovery Of Two Sculptures
The recent discovery of two sculptures at Basrur in the Udupi district of Karnataka has proved that the ancient Mylara cult existed in the coastal region.
Key findings:
- The two sculptures resemble one belonging to the 15th century A.D. and another to the 17th century A.D.
- It shows a royal hero sitting on the horse, holding a sword and a bowl in his right and left hands, respectively.
- But there is no Mylaladevi on the back of the horse. The horse shown holding swords in their right hand was found in another water body.
- Basrur was a historic trading city of the Medieval period.
- Trading guilds like Uhayadesi, Nanadesi and others actively participated in the trade.
Mylara cult:
- Mylara is a folk deity identified as a manifestation of Lord Shiva.
- This deity, commonly known as Mailara in Karnataka and as Khandoba in Maharashtra, has a plethora of other names as well, such as Khanderao and Khandnatha.
- This cult is prevalent in the southern part of India, including Karnataka, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu.
