admin The historic Sri Venkataramana Temple, popularly known as Mallyar Mutt (to distinguish it from another Venkataramana Temple in Mel Gangolli), is one of the oldest places of worship in the Karnataka region. It is one of five temples constructed by the Mahale family of Honavar (originally the Mallya family), who were prominent and influential traders … Read more
Welcome to GSB Katte — The word “katte” is more than a physical gathering spot — it’s a place of learning, discussion, and connection. Just as communities have historically gathered under a katte to share stories, wisdom, and guidance, GSB Katte brings that experience online, sharing stories around our customs and traditions. We hope to … Read more
Growing up in Mumbai, it was easy to identify a GSB woman by the coral (pavle) necklace she wore — the KashiThali, more commonly pronounced Kasthali. True to stereotype, we GSBs are an impatient lot: we speak fast and love shortening words, so KashiThali naturally became Kasthali in everyday speech. More common in GSB families from South Kanara and less so … Read more
In general, before visiting a temple we make it a point to be physically clean—taking a proper bath and wearing fresh clothes. Yet one tradition followed at GSB Kuldevata temples stands apart. It is called Dhulī Bheṭa—Dhulī meaning dust and bheṭa meaning meeting—symbolizing a meeting with the deity while one is still unclean from a long … Read more
I recently listened to a beautiful discourse by Vedamurthy Ramakrishna Bhat, in which he spoke about how temple visits today have increasingly become holidays or tourist outings rather than journeys rooted in pure devotion. That thought struck me deeply—because it feels so true. We are often in such a rush to “complete” the trip that … Read more