The Teru Malleshvara Jatra is a renowned annual religious fair held at the Teru Malleshvara Temple in Hiriyur taluk, Chitradurga district, and is one of the most significant temple festivals in the region. Dedicated to Lord Malleshvara (Shiva), the jatra is usually celebrated during January or February, coinciding with the Hindu month of Magha. The highlight of the festival is the grand chariot procession (Teru), where a beautifully decorated wooden chariot carrying the deity is pulled by thousands of devotees, symbolizing devotion, faith, and collective participation.
The festival attracts devotees from Chitradurga and neighboring districts, transforming the temple surroundings into a vibrant hub of spiritual and cultural activity. Special abhishekas, homas, and pujas are performed, accompanied by devotional music, folk performances, and traditional rituals. Alongside religious observances, the jatra features a lively fair with stalls selling local food, handicrafts, toys, and household items, creating a festive atmosphere for families and visitors. The Teru Malleshvara Jatra is not only a sacred event but also a cultural gathering that strengthens community bonds and preserves age-old traditions, making it an important part of Chitradurga’s spiritual heritage.