Manik Prabhu Temple

History & Philosophy

Manik Prabhu is believed by his followers to be the fourth incarnation of Lord Dattatreya. Wikipedia
He propagated the philosophy called Sakalamata Siddhānta, which emphasizes unity, equality, and respect for all faiths. Karnataka+1
In 1845, he chose the spot of Maniknagar (where the temple is) as his spiritual center. Wikipedia+1
According to accounts, his palanquin got stuck in the area and he saw it as a sign to settle there. Wikipedia
Rather than placing a physical idol on his spiritual seat (gadi), he kept it empty — symbolizing the formless Parabrahma. Wikipedia
He held daily gatherings (darbars), guiding people spiritually and offering alms to the needy. Wikipedia+1
Important spiritual figures of his time visited him, including Sai Baba of Shirdi, Shankaracharya, and others. Wikipedia+1
During the Indian Rebellion of 1857, he is said to have supported freedom fighters and gave “yoga danda” (spiritual sticks) to his followers. Wikipedia
He attained Sanjeevani Maha Samadhi in 1865. auraofshirdisai.org+1
Before his Samadhi, he passed on his spiritual energy to his nephew, Manohar Manik Prabhu, establishing a Guru-parampara. Karnataka+1

The temple is built over his Samadhi (tomb) and has an Indo-Mughal architectural style. Karnataka+1
Devotees from different religions visit — for example, some Muslim devotees view him as the Sufi saint Mehboob Subhani. Karnataka
The temple is not just a spiritual center — the Samsthan runs several charitable and educational institutions:
- A Veda Pathashala for traditional Vedic education. stage.manikprabhu.org
- Manik Vidyalaya, a primary school (nursery to Grade 5), focusing also on Sanskrit, spirituality, and culture. stage.manikprabhu.org
- An Anathalaya (orphanage) sheltering over 100 children, providing free education and support.