The Kukke Subramanya in Karnataka is at a distance of 386 kilometers from Bangalore and 151 kilometers from Karwar.
Kukke Subramanya lies on the bank of river Dhara. As goes the Hindu mythology, Lord Kumaraswamy arrived to this place after destroying the demon rulers Taraka, Shoorapadmasura and many others in a battle. It is said that the Lord washed his Shakti Ayudha (the battle-axe in the form of a bayonet) in this holy river.
Story about Kukke Subramanya:
The the river in the Kukke Subramanya is popularly known as the Kumaradhara. When the war with the demons was over, Lord Kumaraswamy went to the top of Kumara Parvatha together with his brothers Lord Ganesha, Veerabahu and others.They were greeted by Lord Indra as well as the other Gods. Lord Indra was so moved by his bravery that he prayed the Lord to marry his daughter Devasena. The marriage took place on the banks of Kumaradhara on 'Margashira Shudda Shashti' with much grandeur and celebrations.
Lord Kumaraswamy gave visit to Vasuki the chief of the nagas or the snakes, who had been undergoing a penance in the Kukke Subramanya. Vasuki prayed to the Lord to remain with him forever at this place.
The Lord accepted and granted this boon. Till then it is said that the Lord has remained in his spiritual presence in this shrine along with his wife Devasena and Vasuki.
Each year a popular car festival is held in the Kukke Subramanya of Karnataka on 'Margashira Shuddha Shashti' with special offerings to the Lord.
