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Begur is a historic village located in the southern part of Bangalore, Karnataka, India. Over the years, it has witnessed significant changes and developments.
Old Church (1862)
Ancient and Medieval Periods: Begur has a rich history dating back to ancient and medieval times. It is believed to have been a part of the Ganga dynasty's kingdom and later came under the rule of the Cholas and Hoysalas. Ruins of temples and inscriptions from this period have been found in the region.
Vijayanagara Empire: During the 14th and 15th centuries, the Vijayanagara Empire had a strong influence in the area. The Begur Nageshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a significant historical landmark from this era. The temple complex features intricate carvings and architectural details characteristic of the Vijayanagar style.
Colonial Era: With the decline of the Vijayanagara Empire, the area came under the control of various rulers, including the Mughals and the Marathas. Eventually, the British East India Company took control of Bangalore, and Begur became a part of their territorial jurisdiction.
Modern Developments: In more recent times, Begur experienced urbanization and modernization along with the rest of Bangalore. As the city expanded, Begur transitioned from a traditional village to a part of Bangalore's urban fabric. The growth of IT and other industries in Bangalore has also impacted the area's development.
Present Church
Real Estate Growth: Begur has witnessed significant real estate development, particularly in the 21st century. The proximity to IT hubs and improved infrastructure led to increased residential and commercial projects in and around Begur.
Cultural Heritage: While Begur's landscape has changed due to urbanization, it still retains elements of its historical and cultural heritage. The Nageshwara Temple, St. Ignatius of Loyola church and other historic sites continue to draw visitors interested in the region's history.
Challenges: Like many other parts of rapidly growing cities, Begur faces challenges related to infrastructure, traffic congestion, and urban planning. Balancing development with the preservation of historical sites and cultural identity remains a concern.
Community Life: Despite urbanization, Begur maintains its sense of community. Local festivals, traditions, and community events contribute to the cultural fabric of the area.
In summary, Begur's history is a blend of ancient dynasties, colonial influences, and modern developments. The village's evolution from an ancient settlement to a contemporary urban area reflects the larger trajectory of Bangalore's growth and transformation.
History of the St. Ignatius church, Begur
The history of Christianity in Begur can be traced back to the era of Hyder Ali’s rule over this region of Bangalore. During that time, Santhe Beedhi hosted a military camp where Christian soldiers resided and practiced their faith. Between 1761 and 1782, these soldiers worshipped in a modest tent chapel, which stood as Begur’s inaugural church.
Following the dissolution of the Jesuit order in 1773, the MEP fathers took over the mission in the Mysore region. By the time MEP priests arrived in Begur, a church honoring St. Francis Xavier had already been established, likely named by the preceding Jesuit priests. In 1810, a small hut church was erected within the current church grounds, also dedicated to St. Francis Xavier, marking an earlier Christian presence in Begur than previously recorded.
Before this church’s construction, a catechist, who journeyed between Chikkaballapur and Anekal, organized sacramental ministry around 1775-1780. A historical verdict by the high court, under order O S/no 05446/89, confirms the presence of Roman Catholics in Begur village as early as 1725. Records indicate they practiced burial rites in a Catholic cemetery located on the outskirts of Begur. The high court’s endorsement in the legal matter between the State of Karnataka and the people of Begur acknowledges the Christian community’s longstanding history in the region dating back to 1725.
Begur was also cited in the pastoral work of missionaries traveling from Shettyhalli to Thirupathur. In 1742, under Fr Alexius Smaraldo’s guidance, the feast of St Francis Xavier was celebrated, drawing attendees from Begur and neighboring villages such as Bangalore, Chikka Kammanahalli, Somanahalli, Kanakapura, and Harobale.
In 1773, the Jesuit congregation was suppressed. The mission was entrusted to the care of the MEP fathers. The MEP fathers did a wonderful service to the people of Karnataka especially in Mysore Mission.
1st Church
First church was built in 1810 by the effort of MEP priests and the people of Begur. After building the small hut church, priests regularly visited Begur for spiritual ministry to the people. Fr. Jerrige was notably the first to offer consistent pastoral ministry, later becoming the first parish priest in 1847. His tenure was succeeded by a series of parish priests, including Fr. Montandraud, Fr. Renaudin in 1863, Fr. Bouquet in 1868, Fr. Jacqenir in 1888, Fr. Yuerneau in 1890, Fr. Rouss in 1895, Fr. Faisandier in 1906, and Fr. Cappelle in 1932. After Fr. Cappelle’s service, the responsibility for pastoral care in Begur transitioned to local priests.
2nd Church
Second church was built in the year 1862 by Fr. Renaudin. He built this church in the shape of Holy Cross. The church was officially inaugurated on September 16th, 1862. Bishop Charbonnaux, 5 MEP priests and around 300 to 400 people were present for the inauguration of the church.
3rd Church
The third church in Begur was constructed under the guidance of Fr. C Anthappa. This new edifice was dedicated to St. Ignatius, although the reasons behind the renaming remain unknown due to a lack of records. The foundation stone was laid on March 2nd, 1959, and the church’s inauguration took place on December 15th, 1960, officiated by Archbishop Thomas Pothacamury.
4th Church
Fourth church was a dream of the parishioners of Begur. The parish grew bigger but the church was very small. It was impossible for the people to physically celebrate mass. They were present for the eucharistic celebration but most of them were forced to stay outside the church because of the lack of place for the people inside the church. people started to pray for the new church from the year 2000 onwards. They started to realize the church from the day they laid the foundation stone. The foundation stone was laid on August 13th, 2017, by the then archbishop Bernard Moras. Fr, Sahayaraj was the parish priest. Since Fr, Sahayaraj completed the term of parish priest in Begur, the completion of the church was entrusted to the care of Fr. Arockiasamy Sebastian. The church was completed and inaugurated by Most Rev, Dr, Leopoldo Girelli the apostolic nuncio to India and Nepal in the presence of Most Rev. Dr. Peter Machado the archbishop of Bangalore and Most Rev. Dr. Bernard Moras the archbishop emeritus of Bangalore. Fr. Arockiasamy Sebastian was the parish priest when the new church was inaugurated on April 23rd, 2022. There were nearly 15000 to 16000 people gathered to witness this historic event in Begur.
Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes
There is a miraculous grotto for Our lady of Lourdes in the church campus. The grotto is the thanksgiving of the people of Begur for the prayers received by the intercession of Blessed Virgin Mary. Prior to 1944, there was a famine in the village of Begur. People died in large numbers out of famine and decease. They did not know to resolve the issue and were helpless. The entire village prayed to mother Mary for healing and better life. They received their prayers and the life of people improved. The people thanked Mother Mary for her intercession. As a token of love, they constructed the existing grotto and inaugurated it on August 01st ,1944 by Rev. R.P.J. Gratian. They pledged to celebrate the feast of Our Lady of Lourde’s feast every year. From 1944, people have kept up the promise. People of all faith gather to celebrate the feast. Many people witness to the church that their prayers have been answered. It is the strong belief that anyone offer prayers with the lighted candles realize his/her prayers answered
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