The temple born from devotion

As per the local folklore, this shrine was built on a hillock that was initially covered with a thick growth of ragi (finger millet) plants. Hence, the name "Ragigudda" was associated with this temple. 

Hindu mythology tells of the story of Sudharma, a good-hearted and kind woman who assisted the underprivileged and destitute. As a "dharma chintamai," she gave her all to feed the guests in her home. 

A few days after the harvest, three guests knocked on Sudharma's door one lovely morning, requesting bhiksha (alms). They radiated a magnificent brightness and were incredibly bright. These maha purushas received some freshly gathered ragi grains from Sudharma, who was overjoyed. When her mother-in-law saw this, she lost her temper and declared that the fresh grains could not be given to outsiders as bhiksha.

Since the ragi grains had already been offered as biksha, Sudharma informed her mother-in-law that it was unethical and an adharmic act to take them back. Sudharma thought that she no longer needed the ragi grains if the divine men could not have them, but her mother-in-law refused to accept this. The mound of freshly gathered ragi grains became stone and resembled a little hillock the instant she had this notion. As Sri Brahma, Sri Vishnu, and Sri Mahadev, the three celestial men bestowed dharshan onto Sudharma and bestowed upon her blessings for her generosity. The Thrimurthies made the decision to remain there eternally in the shape of stone pillars and bless anyone who asked for them, in accordance with Sudharma's wishes.