According to mythology, the Devas of yore, sought the Lord’s help by performing a sacrifice at this place, with a view to destroy the wicked demon Durgamasura, who was constantly troubling the people around this region. As per the directions of the Lord, goddess Shakambari appeared through the fire of the ‘Yagna Kunda’, and fought a grim battle with the demon. Finally she destroyed him and brought peace and prosperity to the people. According to the story mentioned in ‘Banashankari Mahatmye’, Shakambari is described as the ‘Deity of nature and vegetation’, and that she manifests as Mahalakshmi, Mahakali and Maha-Saraswati.
Historically, it is believed that the original shrine of Banashankari was in existence here, even before the reign of the Chalukyas of Badami. They gave importance to the customs of the Vaishnavas, Jains, Shaivas and Shaktas. But, they were mainly worshippers of goddess Banashankari, the deity of Shakti.
An inscription at the temple premises mentions that the Chalukyan king Jagadeka Malla renovated the old shrine of Banashankari and made considerable improvements. A pillar situated to the north of the temple, bears an inscription in Kannada, during back to 1019 A.D. It describes the bravery of the Rashtrakuta king, Bhimadeva. Another inscription states that the great warrior Ketimayya erected a huge Deepa Stambha (lamp pillar) in front of the temple.
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