Perumparamba – Kshethradanam

Index of Contents

Introduction
Google Map of Temple Locations and Kerala District Map
Malappuram District Temples
Alappuzha District temples

NOTE Since the Blog is lengthy, If you Click on any Title, you will be taken to the concerned paragragh by the link provided. Also you can return to the Index of Contents for which links have been provided at several places in the Blog.

1 Introduction

This blog gives the details of Kerala temples I had darshan from Thirunelli to Ambalapuzha to Palakkad . Since there are more than 150 temples with the tour cris-crossing 11 districts of Kerala, The blog has been organized district wise.. A large number of temples have been covered in tours undertaken in 2009, July 2019, and Nov 2019 and details of the tour given in my earlier Blogs. For completeness sake, the reference to these temples in the various districts have been cross – referred. The blog has 5 parts. In Part 1, Details of the Program implemented is given with Wayanad District temples and Kannur District Temples had darshan. In this part, details of Malappuram District Temples and Alappuzha District temples had darshan are given. In Part 3 details of Palakkad District Temples had darshan are given. In Part 4 details of Thrissur District Temples had darshan are given. In Part 5, details of Kozhikode district, temples, Ernakulam District Temples ,Kottayam District Temples, Pathanamthitta District Temples and Idukki district temples had darshan are given

It may be kindly noted that I have given the details of temples I had darshan / planned. There are still a very large number of temples left out which I didn’t have darshan.

Since the Blog is quite lengthy, for ease of navigation across the Blog, a Table of Conteants is given in the Index with hyperlinks. By clicking on the link, one can skip to the desired Title Block. At regular intervals, one can reach back to Index as well by clicking the hyper links given to Return.

Categories of Kerala Temples : I have categorized the temples as : Parasurama Shiva Temples(PRST), Parasurama Bhagavathy Temples (PSBT), Divya Desams of Maha Vishnu, Other Shiva, Bhagavathy and Subhramanya temples. Please see my blog on Parasurama Temples which gives a map of Parasurama Kshetrams and temples in India with details of some of them.

2 Google Map of Temple Locations and Kerala Districts Map

The locations of Kerala temples are embedded in the Interactive Google Map in the post. By clicking any pointer in the map, one can see photographs , weblinks for details and you tube links for video of the temple. You may click on the google map to expand the view and look at your temple of interest.

3 Malappuram District Temples

3.1 Parashurama Shiva and Bhagavathy Temples

Parasurama Kshetrams

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As per the legend, Lord Parasurama created the land between Gokarna and Kanyakumari. Lord Parasurama the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu was the son of Sage Jamadagni and Renuka. As a mark of repentance for Kshatriya Nigraha sin, Parasurama meditated at Gokarna and invoked Lord Varuna (the Lord of the Oceans). Parasurama asked him for a boon. To absolve himself of the sins he had committed, he wanted to donate some land to the Brahmins. There was no land available because he already donated the whole land he obtained by the 21 round Kshatriya Nigraha to Sage Kashyapa. Lord Varuna told Parasurama that he would give him as much land as he wished. He told him to fling his Parasu (axe) from where he stood at Gokarna. The land from Gokarna till the point where the axe landed would be given to him was the boon that Lord Varuna promised him. The throw of the `axe’ from Gokarna to Kanyakumari created Kerala. Parasurama donated this land to the Brahmins and settled Brahmins there in 64 gramams or villages. After the creation of these gramams, Parasurama had consecrated 108 Shiva temples and 108 Durga temples for the well-being and prosperity of the people in Kerala . Please see my blog on Parashurama Kshetras for more details. Details of some more Parashurama established Shiva and Bhagavathy templ,es are given in my blogs: Details of some more of the Parashurama Shiva and Bhagavathy Temples are given in My Blogs: Kerala Temples II , Kerala Temples III – part1 of 2

3.1.1 Thirumandhamkunnu Bhagavathi Temple PRST44

Sree Thirumandhamkunnu Bhagavathi Temple Angadippuram, Perinthalmanna, Bhagavathi Padam, Angadipuram, Kerala 679321 PRST44 Sree Thirumandhamkunnu Bhagavathi Temple located at Angadippuram, Kerala at a distance of 30 kms from Kuttipuram and 20 kms from Malappuram. is a Parashurama Siva Temple PRST 43. Sri Parashurama is the sixth Avatar of Lord Vishnu and He established 108 Shiva Temples, 108 Bhagavathy temples and 108 Dharma Sastha temples in Kerala

Thirumandhamkunnu Bhagavthy temple is one of the ancient and famous Mahakshethras of Keralacand shrine is the foremost in the Bhadrakali temples. The temple stands prominently on the top of a hillock with an attractive look and majestic apperearance.The scenic beauty, the bliss of solitude and mental pease imparted by this place will ever be in the mind of a devotee who had at least been once to this place.

As per legend, King Mandhatha of surya dynasty ruled the country for long period. He then gave away the kingdom to his successors and chose to meditate on lord Siva and attain the lord’s feets at the end. Siva was pleased with his penance appeared before the king and offered him any boon. The king prayed to the lord for an idol to worship till his death. Siva gave him the most holy Siva linga at Kailas, which was too dear to him and which used to be worshiped by Parvathy and then disappeared.

Carrying the Shiva linga on head mandhatha started his downward journey from Kailas and reached the hill now known as Thirumandhamkunnu. The surroundings attracted the king. Feeling of idol on his head heavy he placed it on the ground at immediately the linga got stuck to the earth.

Lord Siva had gifted the linga to the king when his consort parvathy was away for her bath. When parvathy turned up for worship the Siva linga was not there. She got upset and on enquiry she came to know that it was presented to the king mandhatha, by her husband. Being too much attached to it she wanted the linga back. Siva told her that he had no objection in her trying to get it back.

Parvathy asked bhadrakali and a host of bhoothas to rush up and get the Siva lingam back from the king. With the army of Bhoothas Kali reached the northern slope of Thirumandha hill. The brightness emitted by the Linga installed by Mandnatha was so great that it dazzled the eyes of kali and bhoothas and they were unable to move up the hills. So they started throwing up the weapons from the foot of the hill. The ascetic attending on mandhatha were unarmed but tried to defend themselves with whatever things they had. These being insufficient to protect them they plucked Attanga nuts from their creeper plants, which were available in plenty and threw them at the enemy. Because of the power of Lord Siva and the mandra power of Mandhatha the nuts got changed in to arrows instantly. Kali and her Bhoothas could not resist them the fight which lasted for 15 days.

The age old custom of “ATTANGA YERU” on first of Thulam (The Malayalam month) on the new moon day of the same month in the forenoon before pantheerady pooja refers to the legendary fight between mandhatha and kali.

Expecting defeat Mahamaya took her viswaroopa. She had an elephant in an ear and a lion in the other as earring. Seeing this form the ascetics fell down senseless. When mahamaya in this form reached the hilltop mandhatha was also helpless. He embraced the sivalinga and kali tried to capture it by force. In this struggle that followed the linga got split into two. In the “Jyothis” that arose from it “THRIMOORTHIS” (Brahma, Vishnu and Siva) and Parvathy appeared on the spot.

Parvathy told Mandhatha this idol was very dear to me. Still I do not want to take it away from you against the wishes of my husband. Separation from it is also difficult for me. So I will enter that linga and remain here forever. My daughter kali is not different from me. Actually she came here first. Let her also be installed near me facing north and have all poojas and festival performed. So parvathy disappeared into the idol. This spot is the “SREEMOOLASTHANAM”. The sivalinga here is still split condition .Its position is below the “peedam” and “Prabhamandalam” and can be seen only during the abhisheka before the ushapooja and “Malarnivedia” to the deity.

As ordered by Parvathy, Bhagavathy with Sapthamathrukkal, Veerabhadran and Ganapaty were installed facing north. This is called “Mathrusala”. Pooram, Pattu and all such festivals intended for this goddess. When Sree Parvathy appears, infant Ganapathy was also with her. This infant ganapathy also been installed at sreemoolasthanam.

Sree Parvathy appeared facing west. The installations of Sivalinga at Sreemoolasthanam were facing east. It was thus for necessary to have two darshan openings one to the east and the other to west. The family descendants of “Valluva Konathiri” do not generally open the one on the west except for darshan. On either side of the doorway here are two openings through which other worshippers can have darshan of the diety. But in recent past the restrictions has been modified. After each pooja the door is keept open for some time for darshan of the deity by devotees.

Mandhatha spent many years at thirumandhamkunnu in meditation and thapas. At last he knew it was time for him to leave this world. He was thinking of entrusting the temple to someone for perfect upkeep and maintenance when two Brahmins came there. Mandhatha told them his desire gave them a Grandha containing instructions on the performance of poojas and entrusted the shrine to them. He then retired to the jungle near by now known as “KUKSHIPPARAKKAD” and freed himself from this world of mortals by his yogic powers. Bhakthas who go round this jungle paying homage pick out a leaf from the growing plants and keep it in hair with at most reverence. This area is still a protected jungle. In the Devaprashna conducted in 1959 it was observed that an idol of mandhatha should be installed here and poojas, performed. The temple priests before pooja every Malayalam month. The annual pooja on Chithra in midhunam on Mandhatha is on special significance.

Two Brahmins entrusted with the upkeep of temple, one cleared the jungle around the idol and hence came to be known as “KATTILLAMUTTAM” .The other prepared pavilion for prathishta and came to be known as “PANTHALAKODE”. The thanthri of thirumandhamkunnu temple is still a descendent from either of these families. The nair karyasthan who was with them was given the title “chathathumarar” and made the blower of holy conch in the temple. The Namboodiri’s informed the news to Vadakkara swaroopam raja that was subordinate chieftain of valluvanadu raja holding the title mannarmala raja. He immediately rushed to the spot (Seeing the over-lord of the hill the goddess got up and paid homage to him. This humility of Devi-the sustainer of three worlds-made the raja blink in shame and) he prayed to the goddess to see him as a son. He then presented an elephant to the goddess and worshipped her from its rear, standing in its shadow. His descendants also followed the same practice. Even now direct darshan of thirumandhamkunnu Bhagavathy is not permissible to mannarmala raja.

The first Vallavaraja who took over the control of the temple entrusted its upkeep and maintenance to the local feudal lords “ETTUVEETIL ACHANS” and made them trusty. Erukalikara nair was made kavudaya nair. Sreemoolasthanam does not have a roof, which is an evidence of it having been a kavu.

The Idol of Thirumandhamkunnilamma in Mathrusala is of “daru”. A number of Bhadrakali temples in Kerala have daru idols, but one at Thirumandhamkunnu excels them all. In mathrusala installation is aRurujit – one who conquered Ruru the Asura – The idol is about six feet high, in a sitting posture with the left leg bent up to the lap and the right one freely hanging down. The figure of Devi with the brilliant crown, the glittering ornaments covering the breast bangles and anklets, the head of Darika and weapons held in the eight hand, though fierce as a whole is captivating.

The idols of Sapthamathrukkal and temple child are made from the same seasoned jack wood from which the idol of the main diety was carved out. The legend about the temple child is that Parvathy and Parameswara laid a small lad in the scorching sun to calm down the angry and ferocious Devi returning with the thunderous roars after killing Darika. That lad later became the temple child and subsequently the temple ward (kshethrapalaka). This idol is said to be growing slightly every year.

Apart from the main at Mathru sala, the Kshetrapala and sreemoolasthanam Siva, Nagas and Brahmarakshas are also installed in the temple. There is also an idol of Child Ganapathy at the foot the age-old peepal tree standing on the northern side of the temple.

The important festivals at Thirumandhamkunnu are kalampattu from Vrischikam Ist to the Pooram festival in Meenam extending for 11 days with twenty- one Araattu from makayiram star. Other functions held in the temple are Laksharchana at Sreemoolasthanam and the Mangalya pooja on the Ist Friday in Thulam. The temple timings are 6am to 11.30am and 4.30pm to 8pm

3.1.2 Sree Kadampuzha Bhagavathi Temple, PSBT29

Sree Kadampuzha Bhagavathi Temple, Kadampuzha, of, Kerala 676553 PSBT29 Sree Kadampuzha Bhagavathi Temple located at Kadampuzha, Kerala at a distance of 16kms from Kuttipuram is a Parashurama Bhagavathy Temple PSBT29 Sri Parashurama is the sixth Avatar of Lord Vishnu and He established 108 Shiva Temples, 108 Bhagavathy temples and 108 Dharma Sastha temples in Kerala

The temple was founded by Shree Shankaracharya and the month he consecrated Kadampuzha Temple, the day of Karthika in the month of Virshchikam (November – December) is the considered the most auspicious day and is celebrated as the festival day.

Shree Shankaracharya, during his Deshadanam, a pilgrimage to various parts of the country, came across this place while he was going to Chottanikkara Temple after his Darshan at Mookambika Temple. When he reached the place now known as Kadampuzha, he found that he could not cross and his way was blocked by a Divine Presence. Even with the superior Sight that could “See” or “Understand” Divine presences, he could not fathom it. Perplexed, he meditated to understand why he failed to fathom the Divine Presence and within himself discovered that having attained the “Sarvaknanapeedhom”, his ego had somehow crept in to make him feel superior and that his ego was being shunned by the Divine Presence, making him unable to fathom it.

The Divine Saint immediately set about cleaning his mind of any ego and made himself as humble and pure minded as an innocent child. He approached the Divine Presence again with utmost devotion and supplication and immediately perceived what the presence was and wherein it was emanating from. He marvelled at the Divine Presence of the Devi very strongly bonded with the Divine Presence of Lord Shiva and decided that the place should be treated with absolute reverence.

He discerned that the Divine power is emanating from the hole in the ground and took steps to consecrate the place as a temple and also constituted Lord Narasimha and Sudarshana Chakra in front of the Devi and also decided to place Dharmashasta and Nagakanyaka or either sides of the temple. He also stipulated the poojas and rituals that must be conducted at the temple and these stipulations are followed till date.

Devi is worshiped here in three forms. In the mornings she is worshiped as Vidya Durga (Saraswati) bestowing knowledge and excellence in career to all. In the afternoon she is worshiped as Vanadurga (Durga) in the Twaritha Devi form blessing the devotees with health, early marriage, and domestic harmony and in the evening as Aadi Durga (Mooladurga – Lakshmi) bestowing the devotees with wealth and overall prosperity.

Here, the self manifested Divine Presence, is worshiped as a presence only. Unlike other temples, Kadampuzha is unique in that there are no idols for the Devi.The origin of the name Kadampuzha is considered to have been formed from; Kadan Ambu Eitha Uzha – meaning, The Place where Kiratha Shot the Arrow. Kadan is Kiratha, Ambu is Arrow, Eitha is Shot and Uzha is Place.

There is another version also that deems that this place is ;Kattile Anbin Urava – meaning The spring of compassion in the forest. Kadu is forest, Anbu is compassion and Urava is spring.The name could not have been formed because of a river here since there are none. So either of the two are more apt.

There are no festivals in this Temple that are celebrated with the usual pomp, show and colourful processions. But there are many religious occasions that are celebrated in a festive manner. – The Karthika day in Vrischigam is celebrated as Pradishta day, Sreemad Devi Bhagavatha Navaham is conducted in the month of Thulam every year. Sreemad Bhagavatha Sapthaha is conducted in the month of Thulam / Virischigom every year. The temple timings are 05:00 Am to 12:00 Noon and 03:30 Pm – 07:00 Pm.

3.1.3 Thirunavaya Shiva Temple PRST47

Sri Vasudevapuram Maha Siva Temple, Thavanoor, Kerala 679573 (Thirunavaya Shiva Temple) PRST47 Sri Vasudevapuram Maha Siva Temple located at Thavanoor, Kerala at a distance of 7 kms from Kuttipuram is reported as a Parashurama Siva Temple PRST47 . Sri Parashurama is the sixth Avatar of Lord Vishnu and He established 108 Shiva Temples, 108 Bhagavathy temples and 108 Dharma Sastha temples in Kerala. As per the Shivalaya stotra , Thirunavaya Shiva Temple is the Parashurama Temple PRST47.

One cannot find Thirunavaya Thali Shiva temple. Local people have no idea about such a temple because there is no Shiva temple in Thirunavaya Panchayat. Google search shows Shiva temple in Thavanur panchayat from south of Thirunavaya being posted as Thirunavaya Shiva temple. It is wrong to show Thavanur Shiva temple as Thirunavaya Shiva temple.Then where is Thirunavaya Shiva temple? Search for an answer to this question will take us to a Thara (a raised platform) in Kodakkal junction in the Thirunavaya Panchayat. It is a beautifully built rectangular platform. An ancient well can also be seen in this platform along with a non-dated granite layer on which lies a carved round pedestal. Such pedestals are seen in Mahakshetras (Great temples). We can see a Signboard installed by the government which says, ‘Nilapadu Thara’ Thali Shiva temple installed by Sage Parashurama used to be here. This is Thirunavaya Thali Shiva temple. It has been a century since this temple has been demolished by Tipu Sultan . Thali is a hilly area almost a kilometre westwards from the famous Thirunavaya Nava Mukunda temple. Siva temple consecrated by Parashurama is still lying buried deep under the soil along with the Sivalinga. It is only a matter of time before the temple rise again from its ruins and the Sivalinga gets its due worship.

Tavanur Shiva temple: This is the main temple of Tavanur. The village is named after the Lord here. It is believed that Lord Shiva is doing tapas here. Tapas is known as ‘tavam’ in Malayalam. Thus, the place where Lord Shiva does tapas has come to be known as Tavanur (place of tapas). Unlike the other two temples, this temple has always been under worship even after Tipu’s desecration. The vandalised temple was rebuilt and worship was restarted by the end of 18^th century itself. This temple of Shiva houses a small Shivalingam and sits in a serene neighbourhood right on the banks of the river – a devotee can access the river from the temple. No wonder that the Lord of destruction has chosen this place as His place for peaceful meditation. The serenity of its location is enhanced by presence of a vedapathashala nearby.

The Thirunavaya Vedapathashala, famous for teaching Rg Veda, is near this temple. This pathashala is also well known for preserving some of the rarest oral traditions of Rg Veda samhita, otherwise not so popular elsewhere. The pathashala is centuries old – since before Tipu’s invasions. Every year, at Sree Ramaswamy temple in Kadavallur of Thrissur district, a competition – called Kadavallur Anyonyam – is held between two vedapathashala (Thirunavaya pathashala and Brahmaswom Madhom of Thrissur) for 8 days. The more esoteric recitation styles are tested at this competition. Thirunavaya-Tavanur was the heart of Hindu culture of Malabar before the region fell to Tipu’s forces. It is indeed fitting that even in the current state with very few Hindus, the locality continues to retain its status as a premier centre of study in at least of the traditional subjects (though the Kerala school of astronomy and mathematics with its headquarters at Thirunavaya was completely destroyed by invaders). Tavanur temples stand as testimony to the resilience of Hindus in adhering to their dharma against great odds. Just as the Lord of Tavanur is doing tapas, the local Hindus are doing a tapas of their own – in reviving the temples of their locality, cherishing the past grandeur and propagating dharma to the next generation. Such examples give us heart that not all is lost till we have people who are committed. If Tavanur-Thirunavaya can protect one of the rarest Rig Vedic traditions,

3.1.4 Mathur Siva Temple, Athalur PRST 69

Mathur Siva Temple, Athalur (PO), Mathoor – Panthapalm Rd, Tavanur, Kerala 679573 PRST 69 Mathur Siva Temple located at Athalur (PO) Tavanur, Kerala at a distance of 8 kms from Kuttipuram is a Parashurama Siva Temple PRST69 . Sri Parashurama is the sixth Avatar of Lord Vishnu and He established 108 Shiva Temples, 108 Bhagavathy temples and 108 Dharma Sastha temples in Kerala. Mathur stands for Mahathaya Oor which means Great Place.

The Shivling worshipped in the temple is 5 feet tall including the peedom. The darshanam of Tavanur Mathur Shiva is towards east. Mathur Siva Temple possesses one of the oldest Sivalinga which is said to be more than 2000 years old. Mathur Siva Temple is said to be built around 2000 years with divine idol constructed by Shri Parasurama Maharshi Vishnu Bhagavan has a separate shrine in the temple complex.The Upa Devatas worshipped in the temple are Ganapathi and Ayyappa.

The temple was constructed with rare architecture of vatta sreekovil with two inner corridors. The sivalingam is also rare shaped with big size. The temple is surrounded by temple pond and a big banyan trees.

There are four separate temples for Lord Shiva, Sri Maha Vishnu, Ayyappa Swamy and Lord Ganapathi. Mathur Mahadeva Temple opens at 5.30 AM and will be closed after the day’s pooja’s and rituals at 8.00 PM every day. The temple remains closed between 10.00 AM and 5.00 PM.

The important festival observed in the temple is Mahashivratri.. Mathur Siva Temple Events: 1) Prasada Oottu: There are arrangements for free feeding as Prasadam at the dining hall (Oottupura) for the pilgrims on first monday of every malayalam month 2) Bhakthi Prabhashanam: Bhakthi Prabhashanam by Vattamkulam Shankunni Master is organised at temple premises on first monday of every malayalam month.

3) Ramayana Parayana Padanam: Tution for Ramayana reading is arranged at temple premises every day in karkidaka month 4) Sree krishna jayanti Ghoshayathra: A colourful procession of children dressed as Krishna and Radha, accompanied by chendamelam is organised at temple premises. Temple timings are : Morning: 5.30 AM to 10.00 AM and Evening: 8.00 PM to 5.00 PM Phone: +91 9447 091 688

3.1.5 Perumparamba Shiva Temple, PRST45

Perumparamba Shiva Temple, Perumparamba, Edappal, Kerala 679576 PRST45 Perumparamba Shiva Temple located at Perumparamba, Edappal, Kerala at a distance of 9 kms from Kuttipuram is a Parashurama Siva Temple PRST45 Sri Parashurama is the sixth Avatar of Lord Vishnu and He established 108 Shiva Temples, 108 Bhagavathy temples and 108 Dharma Sastha temples in Kerala.

This is an Ancient Temple – more than 1500 years old and is believed to have been built by the Siva Booth Gana’s (The Lord Siva’s Disciples) in a span of one night. The temple Architecture and structure underline the facts tell by the Legends and Myths. The main investiture (Prathishta) of this temple is Lord Siva. The Siva in a very angry mood and the living being in this area were suffering severely and hence to seek god’s held they decided to do a big puja called Deva Prashna, in this, they realized Lord Siva was in very angry mood and only Vishnu can calm his anger. A Lord Vishnu temple built in the opposite of the (Face to Face) Siva temple and helped the people get rid of the miseries Lord Ayyappa, Dakshina Murthy, Bala Ganapathi, Ganapathi are the sub-investiture (Upa Deva’s).

The Temple suffered severe damages and was completely robbed off its assets during the conquest of Tippu Sultan (Mysore King). Until a couple of decades ago, the temple was in a very bad shape, that even the daily Poojas and other rituals for the deity were almost stopped. The temple is currently being renovated with the funds contributed by devotees who wish to restore the lost glory of this historic shrine.

The main investiture (Prathishta) of this temple is Lord Siva. In the form of Swayambu lingam (self manifested) .The main sanctum santorium is two storey building shape of square in Kukkudakruthy styled The upa devatas are : Lord Ayyappa , Dakshina Murthy, Bala Ganapathi and Ganapathi.

Perumparambu Siva Temple Festivals are :1) Vijayadhesami 2) Mandalavillakku 3) Thiruvathira 4) Kshethrolthsavam 5) Maha Sivarathri 6) Vishu 7) Karkidaka Masacharanam 8) Prathishtadhinam. Temple timings are : Morning: 5.00 AM to 10.00 AM and Evening: 5.00 PM to 7.30 PM Phone: 0494 268 3451.

3.1.6 Puramundekkadu Shiva Temple, Vattamkulam PRST 44

Puramundekkadu Shiva Temple, Vattamkulam Post Malappuram, Kerala 679578 PRST 44 Detailsof the temple are given in my Blog : Must Visit Kerala Temples III – Temples around Shoranur and Pattambi – Part 1 of 2 .

3.1.7 Thrikkavu Temple, Ponnani

Thrikkavu Temple, Thrikkavu Temple Rd, Keezhillam, Ponnani, Kerala 679577 PSBT91 Details of the temple are given in my Blog : Must Visit Kerala Temples III – Temples around Shoranur and Pattambi – Part 1 of 2 .

3.1.8 Thrikkandiyur Shiva Kshetram, PRST48

Thrikkandiyur Shiva Kshetram, Tirur-Thrikandiyoor Rd, Trikkandiyoor, Tirur, Kerala 676104 PRST48 Thrikkandiyur Shiva Kshetram located at Trikkandiyoor, Tirur, Kerala at a distance of 17 kms from Kuttipuram is a Parashurama Siva Temple PRST 48. Sri Parashurama is the sixth Avatar of Lord Vishnu and He established 108 Shiva Temples, 108 Bhagavathy temples and 108 Dharma Sastha temples in Kerala. The vibrant history, charming architecture and powerful deity all range among the attractions of this temple.

Several temples in Malabar still stand as testimony to the atrocities committed by Tipu Sultan during his brutal invasion of Kerala and the subsequent genocide of Hindus.One such temple is the Trikkandiyur Maha Shiva Temple .The temple also houses a Parasurama murti. This is the only temple in India where the temple is opened in wee hours for Shakti puja during a whole mandala season in the month of Vrischika.

Thunchath Acharya and Melapthur Bhattathiri used to visit here regularly. Trikkandiyur Achyutha Pisharody, who was an eminent scholar from 16th century Kerala used to perform his Kazhakam duty in this temple. The temple used to stand tall with a massive Gopura in the east and a Vilakkumadom (for lighting the lamp around Nalambalam) which used to burn lakhs of lamps. During Tipu’s invasion, the Raja of Vettom was the Ooralan (care taker) of the temple.

After widespread conversions, mass murder and temple desecration in the kingdom of Vettom, Tipu and his Moplah force reached Trikkandiyur Mahadeva temple. Scared Hindus ran away. Many sought refuge in forests and secret hideouts. Tipu and his troops first demolished the Gopuram of the temple. Breaking the outer wall, they entered the temple compound and destroyed the Vilakkumadom (lamp post) and the balikkal pura in front of the temple. Breaking into the Sreekovil (Sanctum) they tried to uproot and tear down the Shivalinga, only to fail in the attempt. They then took an axe and attempted to break the Linga into pieces. Anguished raiders backed down just after beheading the Nandi statue using the axe.

The Shiva linga bearing the marks of Tipu’s pirate attack is still worshiped in the temple because it was told in Ashtamangala Deva prashna not to reinstall an another Shivalinga. A granite pillar of the demolished gopuram can be seen in the temple compound now. Headless Nandikesha and the ruined floor of the Vilakkumadom also linger the horrors of the past.

After the reign of the king of Vettom, Trikkandiyur Mahadeva temple is under the trusteeship of the Samuthiri. It has not been possible to conduct a complete renovation of the temple. The perambulation path and the Balikkal pura was reconstructed after Tipu’s invasion, it has not, however, been perfect. Much has not been achieved although a committee was formed for the renovation works including the reconstruction of the Vilakkumadom.

There are other temples surrounding this Shiva shrine, such as the Krishna Temple, Ambalakulangare Temple and Ayyapan Kavu. Vaavulsavam is one of the main festivals. Must have darshan.

3.1.9 Sree Triprangode Lord Shiva Kshetram PRST42

Sree Triprangode Lord Shiva Kshetram,Triprangode PO,Tirur, Malappuram, Kerala 676108, Alathiyoor – Kodakkal Rd, Triprangode, Kerala 676108 PRST42 Sree Triprangode Lord Shiva Kshetram located at Triprangode,Tirur, Kerala at a distance of 8 km from the Tirur Railway Station and 11 kms from Kuttipuram is a Parashurama Siva Temple PRST42 . Sri Parashurama is the sixth Avatar of Lord Vishnu and He established 108 Shiva Temples, 108 Bhagavathy temples and 108 Dharma Sastha temples in Kerala. The sthala puranam of Triprangode Lord Shiva Kshetram is identical to the one at the famous Thirukadaiyur Sri Abhirami Amirthakadeswarar Temple, Tamilnadu

It is one of the three famous temples located in the Thriprangode Panchayath. It exhibits the best example of Kerala’s mural paintings. Other temples are Alathiyoor Hanuman Kavu and Chamravattam Ayyappa Temple. Thriprangode is mentioned in ancient Kokilasandesa poems by Uddandashastras. It has also been mentioned in the “Uddanta Sanstrikal” dating from the 15th century. These areas were ruled by the Vettathu kings after the reign of the Chera king. Vettathunadu was later taken over by the East India Company and the temple administration was handed over to the Zamorin King of Kozhikode. Sri Triprangode Mahasiva Temple is a temple associated with the Markandeya Purana.

Sage Mrigandumuni, a devotee of Lord Shiva, and his wife Marudavati lived near Thirunavaya. The most intelligent boy was known as Markandeyan. On his 16th birthday, when Yaman came to capture Markandeyan, he went to the Thirunavaya temple and sought refuge. The ancients say that the cupboard was there until about sixty years ago. Markandeyan ran away from the tree and hugged the Shiva lingam of the temple on the north side. An angry lord appeared and killed Yaman and gave Markandeyan the gift of being sixteen years old forever. It is said that after killing Kalen, the scepter was washed in a pool located southwest outside the temple walls. The pool is protected by the Devaswom as a “shool-washing pool”.

Inside the courtyard, which is built on a two-storeyed structure, Gaja is worshiped by the people of the world as Sri Parameswaran Mrityunjaya. There are also deities. The theerthams inside the temple walls are the yajnas of the ancient Siddhas who later evolved into pools. Devotees who visit the temple perform Mrityunjaya Homam, Sanghabhishekam, Dhara, for their auspicious deeds

Spread over an area of about six acres, the temple is located on the north-western side of the temple, in front of the Shiva Temple, as the original temple is also known as Vellottukulam, a three – part pool within the temple walls. Theerthakulam is located on the southern side of Vellottukulam. Water for temple worship is taken from this theertha pool. The temple priests bathe in a pool known as Vellottukulam. This rugged temple once gave all the splendor of a Mahasiva temple, as can be seen from the ruins that still remain. The Koothu Madathara, the Lantern Madathara, the Valiyabalikkal Pura, the prayer hall in front of the shrine and the west tower are good examples of what a great temple it was.

The concept of a great temple is underlined by five daily poojas and three Shiveli with instruments. Mulaksetramaya the reason for the temple In addition to the vision of the svayambhu planned to the west, the sanctum sanctorum of the left parvvatidevi dedicated to kannimulayil Ganesha, Dakshinamoorthy pratisthakalum, There is also a Markandeyan memorial on the altar.

Main Deities: Shivan Triprangottappan Parvathi Kaaranathil Sivan. Sub-Deities:Ganapathi,Dakshinamoorthy, Ayyappan, Gosala Krishnan Navamukundan, Vettakoru makan and Bhadrakali

The most important offering of Tripangode temple is the Sayanapradakshinam (circumambulating the temple by rolling on the ground). The annual arattu festival of Triprangode Shiva Temple is celebrated on Thiruvathira asterism in the Malayalam month of Dhanu (December-January). Another important festival here is Sivarathiri, which is celebrated for three days. The temple timings are 4.15am to 11.30am and 4.3 0pm to 8 pm. Phone: 0494 256 6046

3.1.10 Maravanchery Bhagavathy Temple, Kaladi, PSBT 57

Maravanchery Bhagavathy Temple, Kaladi, Kerala 679582; PSBT 57 Details of the temple are given in my Blog : Must Visit Kerala Temples III – Temples around Shoranur and Pattambi – Part 1 of 2 .

3.1.11 Pothannur Durga Temple, PSBT 73

Pothannur Durga Temple, Pothanoor, Kerala 679576 PSBT 73 Details of the temple are given in my Blog : Must Visit Kerala Temples III – Temples around Shoranur and Pattambi – Part 1 of 2 .

3.1.12 sree thozhuvanur bhagavathi temple, PSBT 88

sree thozhuvanur bhagavathi temple Kavumpuram Temple, Kavumpuram, Kerala, 676552, PSBT 88 Details of the temple are given in my Blog : Must Visit Kerala Temples III – Temples around Shoranur and Pattambi – Part 1 of 2 .

3.1.13 Kavil Bhagavathy Temple, Valapuram, PSBT 100

Kavil Bhagavathy Temple, Valapuram, Kerala 67932 – PSBT 100 Details of the temple are given in my Blog : Must Visit Kerala Temples III – Temples around Shoranur and Pattambi – Part 1 of 2 . To Return to Index of Contents, Click Here. Otherwise Continue

3.2 Shiva Temples

3.2.1 Vettakkorumakan Temple, Nilambur

Vettakkorumakan Temple, 76JF+46J, Nilambur Kovilakam, Nilambur, Kerala 679329 Vettakkorumakan Temple is located in Nilambur of Malappuram district. This temple built around 200 years ago, is managed by the Royal family of Nilambur, the Nilambur Kovilakam. This grand temple constructed in traditional kerala style architecture is very visually appealing and is located in a serene landscape adjacent to the river Chaliyar. The temple has a few sub-deities such as Lord Ganesha, Goddess Bhagavati and Nagas.

Vettakkoru Makan is a Hindu deity worshipped in parts of North Kerala and North-Western Tamil Nadu. This deity is alternately referred as Kiratha-Sunu (son of Kirata) in Sanskrit. Vettakkorumakan is believed to be the son of Lord Shiva by his consort Parvathi, born when he assumed the form of a Kirata (hunter) to deliver a weapon known as Pashupathasthra to Arjuna.It is believed that the words, “Vettakkaran Makan” which means son of the hunter became “Vettakkorumakan”. He is mostly and exclusively worshipped in Malabar region of Kerala.Traditionally, He was the deity of hunting, in northern Kerala, people who went for hunting used to give oblations (vazhipadu) at the shrines of Vettakkarumakan.

The most famous temple of this deity is the Balussery Kotta Vettakkorumakan temple about 25 km from Calicut. This was once the fort of the Rajas of Kurumbranad. Other prominent temples are at Nileshwar, Kottakkal, Nilambur, Karaparamba and various places in Kannur district and Kasargod district. He is the family deity of the Rajas of Chirakkal, Nileshwar, Kottakkal, Nilambur Kovilakam, Kalathil Kartha’s , Aluva, Amarambalam Kovilakam and Randu Illam Vargam Nambiars. Those families among the erstwhile nobility of Malabar who have Vettakkorumakan as their family deity are connected in one way or other incidentally to either Balussery Fort or Kurumbranad.

As per the Legend, Vettakkorumakan is the son born to Lord Siva and Goddess Parvati, when they took the “Kiratha” form. Arjuna underwent penance as per the guidance of Lord Krishna to please Shiva. His aim was to get the magical weapons, especially the “Pasupathasthra” from Shiva. Pleased with his devotion, Lord Shiva and Parvathy appeared in front of him in disguise of tribal couple who were on hunting and blessed Arjuna with Pasupatha Asthra after thouroughly testing him.After blessing Arjuna, Shiva and Parvathy spent many days inside the forest in disguise of tribal hunters.

During this period they had a son born of extraordinary effulgence and that is Vettakkorumakan or ‘son born during hunting’, to put it roughly. The boy was very mischievous. During his hunting he killed many asuras. But making free use of his bow and arrows he also gave endless trouble to the Devas and Rishis. Unable to bear his mischief they first approached Brahma who expressed his helplessness as the boy was the son of Shiva. Then they besought the help of Shiva Himself who however dismissed them by saying that he being a boy would be naturally naughty and he would be all right when he grew up. As a last resort they approached

Mahavishnu who took the form of an old hunter and went to the boy. Vishnu displayed before the boy a golden “churika”,(dagger-cum-sword) which was so beautiful that it attracted the boy who begged him to make a present of it. Vishnu agreed provided he would behave in a responsible manner by giving up his bow and started protecting the people instead of harming them. The boy accepted the condition and with the ‘churika’ took leave of his parents from Kailasa and went to the land of Parasurama, Kerala.

He crossed several mountains and forests and rivers and reached North Kerala where he first entered the Balussery Fort. Hence the importance of the Balussery temple dedicated to Vettakkorumakan though the Lord later visited other places where He was revered and worshipped. Thus Lord Vettakorumakan reached Nilambur, befriended the King and promised to remain there to protect the people from all evil fates.

Pattu Uthsavam: Originally called ‘Nilambur Valiya Kalam Pattu’ now turns to Festival of Nilambur called ‘Pattulsav & Tourism Festival’. This is a 6 day festival is held annually in the malayalam month of Dhanu (January).

3.2.2 Tali Sree Mahadeva Kshetram, Angadipuram

Tali Sree Mahadeva Kshetram, NH 213, Kayal Padam, Malappuram District, Kayal Padam, Angadipuram, Kerala 679321 Tali Sree Mahadeva Kshetram is located at Angadipuram, Malappuram district, Kerala and 200 meters from the famous Thirumandhamkunnu Bhjagavathy temple. It is considered to be an ancient one and a part of the 18 Tali temples (Shiva temples) built by Parasurama.

Angadippuram is actually a temple town, as it is rich in the case of number of temples. Nearly 12 temples are there in the village. The Thirumandhankunnu Bhagawathy Temple was built by the erstwhile kings/rulers of Walluvanad. The goddess Bhagavathi at the temple is the family god (kuladaivam) of the Valluvokonathiris. This temple has gained prominence lately.

3.2.3 Sukapuram Dakshinamurthy Temple

Sukapuram Dakshinamurthy Temple Edappal, Edappal, Kerala 679576 Details of the temple are given in my Blog : Must Visit Kerala Temples III – Temples around Shoranur and Pattambi – Part 2 of 2 .

3.2.4 Mallur Siva Parvathi Temple Minipamba, Kuttippuram

Mallur Siva Parvathi Temple Minipamba, NH 66, Kuttippuram, Kerala 67957 Ph : 9846116470 , 9746371749 Details of the temple are given in my Blog : Must Visit Kerala Temples III – Temples around Shoranur and Pattambi – Part 2 of 2 . To Return to Index of Contents, Click Here. Otherwise Continue

3.3 Other Temples

3.3.1 Thavanur Sree Brahmavu Temple

Thavanur Sree Brahmavu Temple (Brahma Temple),Thavanoor, Kerala 679573 Thavanur Sree Brahmavu Temple (Brahma Temple) is located at Thavanoor, Kerala at a distance of 7 kms from Kuttipuram.T he Brahma temple is more than 1000 years old.

Thirunavaya represents a convergence of the Trimurtis: Brahma, Visnu, Siva. There are three temples here, dedicated to the worship of these divine personalities, therefore the place is considered to be equal to Varnasi.

The Navamukundan Visnu temple is on the right (northern) bank of the Bharathapuzha, while the Brahma and Siva temples are on the left (southern) bank, in Tavanur (Thavanoor) village.

The Brahma Temple here was consecrated by Lord Parasurama, who brought and settled the Brahmins here. Parasurama himself is considered to be a “Brahma-Kshatriya”, or one who perfectly balances the duties of both Brahmana and Kshatriya. For this reason, Brahmadeva is said to be Parasurama’s guru, and having executed a great yajna here in Tavanur, Parasurama dedicated a temple to his guru, Lord Brahma.

Unfortunately, the Brahma Kshetra is seldom visited today, and no regular worship or festivals are held here. Most devotees and visitors go to the Navamukundan Temple, which is the predominant temple in Thirunavaya. At Navamukundan there is a daily program of worship, including regular Brahma pujas.

Near the Siva Temple sits the famous Vedic Vidyalaya Othanmar Madom, a famous school of Sanskrit and Vedic education associated with Parasurama’s colony of Brahmins.

The Brahma temple of Tavanur houses a beautiful murti of Brahma holding sruk, sruva, vedas and kamandala. Sruk and Sruva are ladles used to do yajna. Prajapati brahma is closely associated with yajna. This is perhaps the only individual temple dedicated to Lord Brahma in entire state of Kerala. There are no other murtis in this temple. After desecration by Tipu, the temple remained in a dilapidated state till last decade. Locals claim that they suffered from sudden outbursts of diseases every few years – which was attributed to the anger of Brahma whose temple was left in a dilapidated state.

About a decade ago, locals started rebuilding the temple and a pujari has been appointed to do nitya puja to Brahma. They claim that there has been no such outbreak of diseases since then. The temple is in final stages of reconstruction. Hindu students of the locality have also taken to worshipping Brahma sincerely – as he is the husband of Sarasvati and thus, seen as Lord of knowledge.

3.3.2 Thirunavaya Sree Nava Mukunda Temple, DD76

Thirunavaya Sree Nava Mukunda Temple, Tirur – Kuttippuram Road, Dist, Thirunavaya, Kerala 676301 DD76 Thirunavaya Sree Nava Mukunda Temple located at Thirunavaya, Kerala is one of the 108 Divya Desams (wherin 12 Vaishnavaite Alwars have sung songs in praise of Lord Vishnu) at a distance of 12 km South of Tirur in Malappuram district of Kerala. Eleven Divya desams are in Kerala and Thirunavaya is one among them. Mangalasasanam by Nammalwar and Thirumangai Alwar

From ancient times Thirunavaya was known as a centre of excellence for Vedic teachings, with Veda Pada Saalas for teaching the Vedas, Sasthras, Tantric Mantras, performing of rituals and preaching under learned scholars.. It was on the sandy ridges and outskirts of Bharatapuzha that the glorious magnum event MAMANKAM was conducted once in every 12 years. The reconstruction of Sanctum Sanctorum was done by the legendary PERUMTHACHAN under the direction of the Vettath Raja about 1300 years back. The reconstruction had the typical ‘Perumthachan touch’ making the rays of the rising sun fall on the idol on every Medam First (in Utharaayana period, i.e in April) and on Kanni First, (in Dakshinayana period ie, in October).

Moolavar: Thiru Naavaay – Naavaay Mugundhan, “Narayanan”.in Nindra Thirukkolam facing his Thirumugham towards East direction. Prathyaksham for Lakshmi, Gajendran and Navayogis. Thayaar: Malar Mangai Naachiyaar /”Sirudevi”.Pushkarani: “Sengamala Saras”- since the pushkarani is found full of Senthaamarai (Lotus);Vimanam: Veda vimaanam. Since, the sthala perumal is worshipped by Nava yogis and they ae said to great in their Vedic Knowledge, the vimaanam is named as “Veda Vimaanam”.

On the opposite shore of the temple of Vishnu, there are temples of Lord Shiva and Lord Brahma. There is also a celebrated school of Vedas to the Namboodiris adjacent to the Brahma temple , which it is believed was consecrated by Lord Parasurama. So the devotes consider this place as equivalent to Varanasi (Benares) , The river near the temple also is considered extremely important to do Pithru Karmas.

The temple was supposed to have been established by the nine occult yogis viz. Sathuvanathar, Saaloga nathar, Aadhinathar, Arulithanathar, Madhanga Nathar, Macchendira Nathar, Kadayanthira Nathar, Korakkanathar and Kukkudanathar.

As per the legend, when Markandeya attained the age of 16, Yama, the God of death started chasing him. Markandeya ran in side the Nava Mukunda temple. It seems then the God gave him one handful of mud and instructed him to rush through the west door to the Shiva temple at Thirprangode, make a shiva linga out of the mud given to him and worship it. As soon as Markandeya crossed the west entrance, Lord Vishnu closed it by putting a big stone there.(Even to this day, that door is blocked). Markandeya did as instructed and was saved by Lord Shiva, who killed, Yama, the God of death. Apart from the main temples of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi there is also a temple dedicated to Ganesha in this temple.

Accommodation is provided by the temple administration. Affordable accommodation is provided here. Rooms and common dormitories are available. One can contact the temple administration for advance bookings. The temple is open from 05:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and from 05:00 p.m. to 08:00 p.mMust have darshan.

3.3.3 Alathiyoor Sri Hanuman Swamy Temple

Alathiyoor Sri Hanuman Swamy Temple, Hanuman Kavu-Musliyarangadi Road, Poilissery, Tirur, Malappuram, Kololamba, Kerala 676102 Alathiyoor Sri Hanuman Swamy Temple is located at Alathiyoor, Tirur, Malappuram, Kerala at a distance of 14 kms from Kuttipuram The main deity of this temple is Sri Rama but the temple is famous and known as a “Hanuman temple”..

It is believed that Alathiyoor Perumthikovil (Hanuman Kavu) temple was erected and consecrated by Sage Vasishta, who is prominent among the Saptarshis, some 3000 years ago. Long ago, the Alathiyoor Grama Namboodiri was in possession of this Temple. Afterwards it was taken over by Vettath Raja. Presently the temple continues to be administered by his highness Zamorin Raja of Kozhikkode.

Sri Hanuman of alathiyur is a daring – guardian of children; besides, he eliminates all mental agonies of his devotees and fulfills their heart’s desires. In almost all hindu families in kerala, children pray to Sri Hanuman when they go to bed as follows: “Oh dear Hanuman of Alathiyur, Kindly keep bad dreams away from us And if we were to be haunted by bad dreams do please wake us up by gently taping us with your tail.” It is believed that those who recites the verse before going to bed will not have bad dreams.

There is platform to commemorate Sri Hanuman’s mighty leap to Lanka over the sea. There is a long granite stone at one end of the platform and symbolize the sea. Devotees come running and leap over the long stone. By doing this, auspicious result is expected especially for the better health and life of children.

The favorite offering of Sri. Hanuman is “wet avil ( Pothi avil )“ and another important offering is “kadali” plantain.

There was a time when the temple was finding if difficult to sustain even the daily puja rituals as per requirement of the traditions. The immense discipline of the temple management and the ever growing support of the devotees have indeed turned this temple into a very vibrant center for spiritual rejuvenation in the recent years. People from all walks of life and background and all corners of the world that include various leaders in different fields of public life throng to the hanuman temple seeking blessings of Sri Hanuman.

Sree Kovil of Sri Hanuman is adjacent to the main temple. Sri Hanuman stands leaning a little towards the left, to hear his master’s word. Sri Rama is confiding in Hanuman the cue word (abhignana vaakyam) that would enable him to gain the confidence of Seetha. Hanuman has a mace in his hand. The numerous Gods bestowed their enormous power on Sri Hanuman. He is all said to accomplish his mission, which is seeking the whereabouts of Seetha. Here he is the personification of divine strength, confidence, concentration of purpose, bhakthi and above all humility. He is the symbol of supreme self sacrifice. He seems to be assuring Sri Rama, “Your wish is my command”. Devotees of Hanuman throng to this temple to make their wishes and be heard by the mighty Hanuman.

Sreekovil of Lakshmana is positioned to the west within the temple complex a but a few meters away from Sri Rama, Outside the periphery of Naalambalam. It is believed that Sri Lakshmana was keeping himself at a small distance away deliberately. Presumably to avoid being privacy to the cue word (abhignana vakyam) that Sri Rama was confiding in Hanuman.

The Alathiyoor perumthrikkovil temple is special to its devotees for very many reasons. Sri Rama is the presiding deity here. The daily pooja, rituals, offerings by devotees and spectacular annual temple festival – all are held in honour of the presiding deity, Sri Rama. However, the devotees popularly prefer to the temple, the “Hanumankavu” temple. And in a way, it symbolizes the triumph of the supreme strength of bhakthi of Sri Hanuman as an ideal, which over shadows the presiding deity Lord Sri Rama.

Sri Rama is visualized as the maryada purushothaman – he is separated from his beloved consort, Seetha, by the mighty Ravana who has abducted her to Lanka. Sri Rama is seen entrusting Hanuman the impossible task of locating the whereabouts of Seetha. Sri Rama confides to Hanuman about how to look for Seetha in the Lanka. Hanuman, now, only has to cross the vast and formidable sea that separates the Lanka from the main land. 33 crore Gods gathered to witness this significant act. It is an act in which the avathar purush Sri Rama seeks the assistance of his Bhaktha, Hanuman. All the Gods bestow Hanuman with their enormous strength, so that he succeeds in his mission. For Hanuman, this is a very significant moment. And hence, his preeminence, at Alathiyoor.

Sree Alattiyur Hanumankavu Deities are : Lord Ramaswamy, Lord Lakshmana, Lord Ganapathi, Lord Ayyappa. The festivals celebrated are : Sri Ramanavami ,Sri Hanuman Jayanti, Aadi Amavasya, Onam,Vishu and Thiruvona Mahotsavam. The temple timings are 6am to 11 am and 5.30 pm to 7pm

3.3.4 THANDALATH DURGA TEMPLE, Kaladi

THANDALATH DURGA TEMPLE, Kaladi, Kerala 679582 Details of the temple are given in my Blog : Must Visit Kerala Temples III – Temples around Shoranur and Pattambi – Part 2 of 2 .

3.3.5 Arayalkkal Bhadrakaali Vettekkaran Temple,Kaladi

Arayalkkal Bhadrakaali Vettekkaran Temple, Edappal – Parappuram – Ayankalam Rd, Kaladi, Kerala 679582 Details of the temple are given in my Blog : Must Visit Kerala Temples III – Temples around Shoranur and Pattambi – Part 2 of 2 .

3.3.6 Mangattoor Maha Vishnu Temple, Kaladi

Mangattoor Maha Vishnu Temple, Kaladi, Kerala 679582 Details of the temple are given in my Blog : Must Visit Kerala Temples III – Temples around Shoranur and Pattambi – Part 2 of 2 . To Return to Index of Contents, Click Here. Otherwise Continue

4 Alappuzha District temples

4.1 Parashurama Shiva and Bhagavathy Temples

4.1.1 Karthyayani Devi Temple, Cherthala, PSBT17

Karthyayani Devi Temple, Cherthala Road, Kodathikavala, Cherthala, Kerala 688524 PSBT17 Karthyayani Devi Templelocated at the center of Cherthala town,Alapuzha, Kerala at a distance of 30 kms from Kochi is a Parashurama Bhagavathy Temple PSBT17 . Sri Parashurama is the sixth Avatar of Lord Vishnu and He established 108 Shiva Temples, 108 Bhagavathy temples and 108 Dharma Sastha temples in Kerala The deity Cherthala Karthyayani Devi is famous as Mangalya Dayini in the sense she provides welfare and prosperity for her devotees and removes obstacles for the marriage of young girls.

As per the legend, Vilwamangalam Sawmiyar was returning to Guruvayur after consecrating the Ananthapadmanabha temple in Thiruvananthapuram . He reached the present Cherthala and was taking rest below a Thambaka tree. He noticed several swans swimming in the several ponds in that place. Suddenly he saw a divine lady swinging in a swing, tied to the Thambaka tree. He recognized her as goddess Karthyayani and approached her whereupon she jumped into a nearby pond. Though Vilwamangalathu swamiyar searched for her in the pond, he could not locate her. The next day also he saw her in the same place and this time she jumped into a second pond. This continued for six days. On the seventh day, the swamiyar managed to catch hold of the hair of the Goddess and pulled her up before she could submerge. He could only pull up her head (thala) exposing her neck. Also, several hairs which he was holding got uprooted. The seventh tank was full of slushy mud called ‘Cher’ in Malayalam. Because of this incident the place was called Cherthala. (This being a great centre for coir manufacture was also called Shertala by the British).

The present idol has only the head visible. One can see these holes from which hairs have been pulled out. So after Abhisheka, this part of the idol forming the head is mopped by using a cloth. Also while doing flower offerings to the Goddess, these parts are covered with a cloth. It seems the swamiyar got angry with her because he was not able to catch her. So, commemorating the event, in the month of Edavam (May-June), the people playfully abuse the goddess during a pooram festival.

The Goddess in the sanctum sanctorum is consecrated below the floor level. Outside the temple, there are separate temples for Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. The devotees hand over cocks as an offering to the goddess Karthyayani.So you can find several cocks at this temple. Near the sanctum sanctorum of the goddess, there are separate temples for Ganapathy and Lord Dharma Sastha also. Just outside the temple is the place where Vilwamangalam Swamiyar is said to have found her in a swing.

It seems once a gandharva was giving a lot of trouble to the people around this temple. So the goddess requested Shastha to teach the gandharva a lesson. Lord Sastha went out side and killed the Gandharva. When he was returning to the temple, the Goddess asked him to stay outside itself so that he can protect the people. A separate temple was built there. The Sastha in this temple is called Kavu udayon(he who has the job of security or He who has a Kavu). He holds a mace in his hand. People who are in fear or are attacked by evil spirits make a mace of wood, colour it and give it as an offering to Kavu udayon.

Cherthala pooram is the second famous pooram in Kerala.Kalabham, in familywise, can be held on there, kalabham is a famous vazhipadu The arattu (bathing in a tank) festival is celebrated in the month of Edavam (May-June) for eight days. Each day Goddess is dipped in a different pond and on the eighth day she is brought back to the temple along with Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.

There are two very special and peculiar prasadam offerings at this temple. They are called Iratti and Thadi. Iratti is nothing but the Ghee Payasam with double the quantity of jaggery used in its preparation.Thadi is made by the following method:

Rice flour, Jaggery, and coconut are mixed along with powdered dry ginger and other spices. This is then made in to a paste form and placed in a sheath of areca nut frond and tied at both ends. Then sand in an oven is heated by burning fuels like sticks etc. A small depression is made in the sand and the above bundle is inserted inside and covered with hot sand using fuels such as coconut shells which are burnt over it. This type of baking is peculiar to this temple. This offering is made only if devotees desire for same

4.1.2 Thrichattukulam Mahadevar Temple, PRST2

Thrichattukulam Mahadevar Temple, Panavally, Kerala 688581 PRST2 Thrichattukulam Mahadevar Temple located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake at Panavally Island of Alleppey District in Kerala at a distance of 16kms from Kochi is a Parashurama Siva Temple PRST2. Sri Parashurama is the sixth Avatar of Lord Vishnu and He established 108 Shiva Temples, 108 Bhagavathy temples and 108 Dharma Sastha temples in Kerala.Putting lamp behind the Linga is famous here. Dhara with milk is famous as the theertham will cure mental patients.

The Thrichattukulam Mahadeva Temple is one of the three important shiva Temple in Karappuram Kingdom in Kerala, those are Velorvattom Sri Mahadeva Temple, Nalpathaneeswaram Sree Mahadeva Temple and Thrichattukulam Mahadeva Temple

The main deity of this temple is Lord Shiva, popularly known as Thrichattukulam Mahadeva .There are shrines for other deities set up in the temple like, Sree Ganapathy, Sree Mahamaya and Sree Nagayakshiyamma. A Naga Yakshi prathishta is present at the north east corner of Valiyambalam

Previously this temple was under the management of Nampoothiris. Later the temple came under the management of a Warrier family and continued to be maintained by them for a long time. Finally it came under the ruler ship of Venad kingdom. Now it is one of the major Mahadeva temples managed by Travancore Devaswom Board. Daily five poojas and three sheevelis are held. Locally Lord Thrichattukulathappan is known as Vaduthalayesan.

The idol of Lord Shiva is worshiped in the east. The temple is built in Kerala Dravidiyan Style and the sacred edifice and sacrificial wall. It is rich with beautiful wooden sculptures. Outside the palace and the altar, a large ivory tower was built along with the east tower. There is a copper pillar between the altar and the ivory wall. The temple pond is built on the north-east corner of the east side of the temple.

Ganapati and Bhagavathi are placed in the four pavilions (Nalambalam). The dedication of Bhagavathi was done recently. In 1978, Bhagavathi was settled in Nambalam with the rituals of Tantric judgment. The idol of the Nagayakshi can also be seen in the northwest corner are facing east. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple is made of numerous sculptures. The temple is renowned for its magnificent wood carvings made of plankton. The sanctum sanctorum is made of two types of rectangles and fed with copper plates

In front of the copper dwaja ,a big anakkottil is present. The eastern tower (gopuram) is small and simple. Wooden sculptures adorn the balikkalppura and namaskaramandapam. The Shiva lingam is covered with a Thirumukham. The presence of Lord Mahadeva is felt by the devotees while standing in front of the sreekovil. Shrines of Ganapathy and Bhagavathy are present inside the nalambalam. The Bhagavathy idol was set up in the year 1978. The rectangular sreekovil of Shiva is two storied with a copper covered roof. The temple pond is present at the north side of eastern gopuram.

The yearly festival (utsavam) is makara bharani utsavam held in Makaram, in the months of .January- February. Customary arts, music and dance are performed through this period. The festivity concludes with Arattu. The utsava murti of the divinity is taken out of the temple for ceremonial dip on the final day. Caparisoned elephants and melam are part of the ritual. Few other significant days are Shivarathri, Thiruvathira, Mondays and Pradosha.

The main offering is Vedi vazhipadu, particularly the Gopurathinkal vedi. Apart from it, Ksheera Dhara, Pinvilakku and Rudrabhishekam are some other important offerings.

The temple has a good Sreekovil where Siva is seen giving darshan towards the east. 5 poojas are offered here like the Maha temples. Lighting lamp behind the Linga is popular here. Ksheera dhara is mainly done for curing mental issues and Pinvilakku for getting good marital life.

4.1.3 Nalpathaneeswaram Sree Mahadeva Temple, PRST6

Nalpathaneeswaram Sree Mahadeva Temple, Kunnuparambu, Panavally, Kerala 688526 PRST6 Nalpathaneeswaram Sree Mahadeva Temple located at Panavally, Kerala at a distance of 18 kms from Kochi is a Parashurama Siva Temple PRST6 . Sri Parashurama is the sixth Avatar of Lord Vishnu and He established 108 Shiva Temples, 108 Bhagavathy temples and 108 Dharma Sastha temples in Kerala.The temple is very artistically constructed in calm a quiet, typical village atmosphere.

It is believed that the temple was originally owned by 48 illams and therefore the name Nalpathaneeswaram (Nalpatheyettu means 48 in Malayalam). Another belief is that this is the 48th Pratishta of Kharamuni in Kerala.

Here Lord Siva is in Kiratha Bhava. It is considered the 48th foundlings of Saint Khara, one who founds the Ettumanur temple and Kaduthuruthi temple. The temple is very artistically constructed in calm a quiet, typical village atmosphere. The festival in this temple is celebrated in the month of Kumbham February�March, uthrittathi-kodiyettu, thiruvathira -aarattu), and lasts for 7 days, All those days are important days according to the traditional rituals, (Utsavabali, Koodi ezhunnallathu, Bharani, Karthika, Araattu). People refer the God in this temple as Nalppathenneswarathappan

Other deities are, Lord Ganapathi, Varahamoorthy, Durgadevi, Rakshassu, Chovva bhagavathi, Nagaraja, Nagayakshi, Ayyappa. This temple has one sister temple called Oorali Parambathu Sastha Temple situated on the north-west side of the temple. Recently performed devaprasana led by late legend Sri Chorodu Narayanappanicker and his team found that, the temple is more than 1000 years old, deity likes arts performance, annadanam, etc.

The temple is under the administration of three ancient Kaimal families named Kozhisseril, Payippattu, Mullakkeril. This is one of the oldest temples still proceeding under Raja Sassana Chepped. Main offering to the deity is kathakali. Because of this, temple is famous for kathakali. Much history surrounded the temple premises, according to the old people this place was known as Pandavar Veli, later it became Panavally. Still there are four big stones that were kept 1 km east of the temple people believe that these stones were used by pandavas during vanavasam for heating milk.

The annual temple festival is celebrated here in the malayalam month of Kumbham (February-March) for almost 7 days. Several traditional rituals are observed as part of this festival such as Utsavabali, Koodi ezhunnallathu, Bharani, Karthika and Araattu.

4.1.4 Vaikom Sree Mahadeva Temple, PRST13

Vaikom Sree Mahadeva Temple, Vazhamana Rd, Vaikom, Kerala 686141 PRST13 Vaikom Sree Mahadeva Temple located at a distance of 3 kms from Vaikom, Kerala is a Parashurama Siva Temple PRST13 . Sri Parashurama is the sixth Avatar of Lord Vishnu and He established 108 Shiva Temples, 108 Bhagavathy temples and 108 Dharma Sastha temples in Kerala

Vaikkom’s Shiva is fondly called Vaikkathappan is one of the oldest temples in Kerala. The Shiva Linga here is believed to be from the ‘Treta yuga’ and considered as one of the oldest temples in Kerala where pooja has not been broken since inception.

Held in reverence by both Shaivaites and the Vaishnavaites, the temple was also the central point around which the Vaikom Satyagraha took place. The presiding deity is Lord Shiva. As per legend, Khara, an asura did severe penance; Lord Siva, who was pleased gave him three idols. Khara carried the idols – one each in either hands and one by his neck. He got tired on his way back and put the idols down and rested a while. When he woke up, he realised that he could not pluck the idols out. These three idols, it is said, are the ones that are being worshiped at Vaikom, Kaduthuruthy and Ettumanoor inKottayam district.

Khara, having attained moksha, entrusted saint Vyaghrapada with doing the pujas and rituals. The saint observed the rituals and did the pujas. Then, Parasurama arrived and he consecrated the idol at Vaikom making it popular among both Shaivaites and the Vaishnavaites.

The east facingtemple is situated in about eight acres of land and is protected by compound walls with four towers on all the four sides. Near the east tower is a protected platform known as the ‘Vyaghrapada Sthana’, which is the place where the God appeared before saint Vyaghrapada. There is a golden flag staff and once we enter the temple is the ‘Stambha Ganesha’ to the north east corner. There is a namaskara mandapa, with episodes from Ramayana sculpted in the inner roof. A huge Nandi idol is placed just outside the main sanctum santoram.

The temple is round in shape and there are beautiful paintings and sculptures all around. There are six steps which take you inside the main shrine that houses the God. ‘Manya Sthana’ is where thesaint Vilwamangalathu Swamiyar, who could see Gods spotted the Lord while having food. The main kitchen is towards the east of the ‘Manya Sthana’.

There is a closed door to the west of the temple. The temple, in old times, belonged to 108 families. When a dispute erupted the families got divided into two camps, one division naturally aligned with the king. The other camp vowed to block the rituals in the temple. Their leader, Njallal Namboodiri, reached the temple, chewing betel leaves. He entered the temple through the westgate and went into the temple where the offerings were made. He spat on the offering, forcing the rituals to stop. On his way back, he was bitten by a snake at the west gate. The western door mysteriously closedand a voice was heard, commanding that the door be closed. And itremains shut, to this day.

As per another legend, Long long ago, before India attainedindependence, untouchability and casteism was prevalent across all the princely states of Kerala. The roads around Vaikom temple became the venue for the agitation known as the Vaikom Satyagraha. Many national leaders including Mahatma Gandhi talked to the kings of Travancore who later signed the Temple Entry Proclamation which is considered as a milestone in the history of the land. Vaikom temple was among the first to open its doors to all.

The annual festival – the [Ashtami] is a very elaborate affair. It is believed that a visit to all these three temples – Vaikom Mahadeva Temple ,Kaduthuruthy Siva Temple and Ettumanoor temple – before ‘ucha puja’,which signifi es the puja before lunch, is very auspicious. It is said that Lord Shiva is worshiped as Dakshinamoorthy in the morning, Kirathamoorthy at noon and Shakti panchakshari in the evening.

4.1.5 Sree Mahadeva Temple Pattanakkad, PRST3

Sree Mahadeva Temple Pattanakkad, P8J9+786, Pattanakkad, Kerala 688531 PRST3 Sree Mahadeva Temple located at Pattanakkad Alapuzha Kerala at a distance of 25 kms from Kochi is a Parashurama Siva Temple PRST 3. Sri Parashurama is the sixth Avatar of Lord Vishnu and He established 108 Shiva Temples, 108 Bhagavathy temples and 108 Dharma Sastha temples in Kerala.

The Sri Mahadeva Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva The Swayambu (self manifested) Shiva is Kirtamurthy here. The darshan is towards the east. Temple is built in typical Kerala Style Architecture.

Other deities include Ganapathy, Subramaniyan, Ayyappan, Yakshi, Nagaraja and Nagayakshi. There is also a beautiful tourist beach Andhakaranazhy near the town about 4 km from Poonamveli

4.1.6 Velorvattom Sri Mahadeva Temple, PRST1

Velorvattom Sri Mahadeva Temple, Chethala Rd, Velorvattom, Cherthala, Kerala 688524 PRST1 Velorvattom Sri Mahadeva Temple located at Velorvattom, Cherthala, Kerala at a distance of 23 kms from Alapuzha is a Parashurama Siva Temple PRST1 . Sri Parashurama is the sixth Avatar of Lord Vishnu and He established 108 Shiva Temples, 108 Bhagavathy temples and 108 Dharma Sastha temples in Kerala

“Velorvattom Maha deva temple”, was owned by “Azhvanchery Thamprakkal” and now maintained by Kerala Urazma Devasam Board (KUDB). It is believed that the temple was created by Vilwamangalam Swamiyar.

The Temple has two Nadas ,two Dhawjas and Sreekovils in which Lord Shiva resides in two forms which is very rare in Kerala. This temple is considered to be the MoolaKudumbam of many well known Families in Kerala.

One on the north side known as the Vadakkanappan is considered to be the original pratishta and the pratishta on the south side is a Swayambhoo Vigraham called the Tekkanappan. A Bull is also reared by the authorities in the temple premises as it is considered to be closely related to Lord Shiva. It is believed that Nirmalya Darsanam in Velorvattom Mahadeva temple can lessen our sufferings and bring prosperity to our lifes. Other subdeities are of Mahavishnu, Shasthavu, Ganpathi, Yakshiamma and Naga Pratishta.The Naga Pratishta is given equal importance in this temple. Shivaratri is being celebrated on a grand scale in this temple. An Eight days festival is celebrated in the malayalam month of Kumbham.

Velorvattom Mahadeva Temple has its annual festival celebrated in the month of feb-March. Devotees offer Purakuvilakku, Koovala Mala, Dhara, Sangabhishekam, Mritunjaya Pushpanjali for Lord shiva and PattumManjal and Talichukoda for Naga pratishta. There is also a Vazhipadu named Pitrunamaskaram which is made as an offering to the souls of the ancestors. The temple is conventionally decorated with plantain, coconut leaves, flowers, leaves, traditional lamps and lights.

Melam, the panchavadya, a traditional Kerala temple music performance with five instruments, are performed as part of the festival. Traditional performing arts, music and dance are staged during the period.The festival ends with Arattu. The utsava murti (procession deity) of the deity is taken out of the temple for ritual bathing on the final day. Caparisoned elephants and melam are part of the ritual. Contact phone numbers: +91 478 281 3466, 0478 281 3466.

4.1.7 Parumala Valiya Panayannarkavu Bhagavathi Temple, PRST60

Parumala Valiya Panayannarkavu Bhagavathi Temple, 8GJP+WWJ, Parumala, Kerala 689626 PRST60 Parumala Valiya Panayannarkavu Bhagavathi Temple, located at Parumala, on the bank of Pampa river near Mannar Kerala at a distance of 40 kms from Alapuzha is a Parashurama Siva Temple PRST60. Sri Parashurama is the sixth Avatar of Lord Vishnu and He established 108 Shiva Temples, 108 Bhagavathy temples and 108 Dharma Sastha temples in Kerala.

Although this temple is one among the 108 Shivalayams, Bhadrakali is more famous than Shiva. Here Kali is called Panayannarkkavilamma There are other Shivalayams in Kerala like Thirumandamkunnu, Kodungalloor, Kumaranalloor, and Chengannoor where the main Pratishta is Shiva but the importance is for Bhagavati. Panayannarkkavu is one among the three great Kali temples in Kerala. The other two are Thirumandhamkunnu and Kodungalloor.

References to this temple are found in Aithihyamala and Unnineelisandesham, the classics of Malayalam Literature. The pleasant natural surroundings of Parumala and the grace of the Mother Goddess in her ferocious Avatar as Bhadrakali, bestowing Her blessings on the devotees are famous even in other States.

Tall Palmira trees and pristine green forests, and the idols of Nagarajas and Nagayakshis which bestow their boons on those devoted to them, can be found at five spots in the Complex. The Omnipotent Lord Siva , installed during the Thretayuga ( about five thousand years back) by Sage Parasuram faces the Holy Pampa river, Westrward. Devi Bhadrakali, in Her Avatar as the slayer of Dariakasura faces East.To Her left is the very rare Mahameru Chakram (This part is not accessible to the Visitors). Other deities like Chanthattu Kali, (bathed in vermillion paste), Veerabhadran, Saptamatas, Sri Ganapati and Sri Soolini add to the solemnity of the Complex.

The over-all Complex faces North. There are three main doors for devotees to have Darshan of the eleven deities. On the first day of every Malayalam Month, there are special Poojas for every deity. All three gates are opened on those days Within the Four-walled precincts, there are two Srikovils ( main temples), and there are fourteen installed deities.

In the forecourt idols of Karimkali, fond of sacrificial offerings is present. Idols of Devi Annapoorneswari. Kodumkali, Bhootakali, Ksetrapala, Ganapati, Dharmasastha,and Yakshi Amma, the benign form of Vampire supposed to have been arrested by the legendary Christian Priest-magician Kadamattathu Kathanar, and Devi Durga in Her Kumbhakalasapriya Avatar, in the Palliyara chamber, are are found in these Temples, and their combined power and grace are felt by the visitors.

All the original installations are believed to have been done by Sage Durvas and Sage Narada in the Threta Yuga. Exquisite wall paintings depicting stories from the Devi Bhagawatam, Ramayana, Mahabharata, Bhagawatam etc adorn the Walls of the temple and are a major attraction of the place.

The ravages of time have had their adverse impact on the Main Temples, the minor temples and the Wall paintings. Serious efforts are being made to restore them to their pristine glory and preserve. Bhagavata Saptaham, as suggested by Deva Prasnam and the traditional Vishu Mahotsavam are being celebrated.

As per the legend, Yakshis were supposedly vampirish beings who possesses satanic powers and were known to prowl and stalk human beings. They have a penchant for human blood and flesh.There was once such a famous , rather infamous Yakshi known as The Pynanarkavu Yakshi (Parumala yakshi) who was bound by the legendary hero Kadamuttathu achen(a friar).

Kadamuttathu achen made her to vow that she would never again be a threat to mankind ,but lead a peaceful life in the surrounding forest which is known as Pynanarkavu .It is believed that she still haunts and dwells in this kavu (forest), invisible to the human eye ,but at times she has been cited by many people on several occasions, especially ” Karuthavavu” and on Fridays .These sightings are described by the local people as an extremely beautiful woman or as a flying pillar of fire . To this day the Yekshi is known to have kept her promise to the legendary hero Kadamuttathu achen .

4.1.8 Kandiyoor Mahadeva Temple, PRST5

Kandiyoor Mahadeva Temple, Kandiyoor, Mavelikara, Kerala 690103 PRST5 Kandiyoor Mahadeva Temple located at Kandiyoor, Mavelikara, Kerala on the banks of Achankovil river at a distance of 30 kms from Ambalapuzha is a Parashurama Siva Temple PRST5. Sri Parashurama is the sixth Avatar of Lord Vishnu and He established 108 Shiva Temples, 108 Bhagavathy temples and 108 Dharma Sastha temples in Kerala

Kandiyoor Mahadeva Temple, popularly known as DAKHINA KASHI, is unique in archeological features and is one of the biggest and ancient temples in Kerala.

Built in AD823 by Cheraman Perumal Nayanar Rajasekara Varman century, there is an Era in the name ‘Kandiyoorabdam’ from the formation of the temple. It was in wide spared use till the introduction of “Kollavarsham”. The temple was of Odanadu King later captured by Kayamkulam King and Marthanda Varma. When there was a war between Odanadu and Kayamkulam, defeated Kayamkulam King entered the temple, surrendered his “udaval” (Sward) and escaped through the rear door. This rear door is still remaining closed even after centuries.

The temple has one of the biggest prathishta, made by Sree Chola Rajas. Kandiyoorappan, The principal deity faces east, inside a two tired sanctum.In front of the sanctum of the principal deity a platform is set for the devotees to stand and worship kandiyoorappa. This is not a part of keralas traditional style but of Hoysala style of Architecture. Standing on it, one will feel the entire cosmos just shrank into deity and the devotee.

One of the ancient literature “Unnunooly Sandesam” of Manipravala literature believed to be written around AD1350 mentions about the place Kandiyoor and Kandiyoor temple. Another one is Damodara Chakyar’s “Unniadi Charitham”, another Manipravala literature. This also narrates about the pompous Sreeparvatam market at Kandiyoor – Mattam which is one of oldest market known as per the available history. Also there is the famous “Kandiyoor – Mattam Padappattu”.

An unusual compound wall of Gajaprishta syle (Back of the elephent) of architecture which height about 10 feet is believed to be constructed by Bhoothaganas of lord Siva in a single night. According to this myth the walls of the near by Chengannur Mahadeva temple and Mannar Kuratty Mahadeva Temple are constructed in the similar way. Bhoothaganas could not complete the construction of wall of Chenannur Mahadeva temple and is remaining as such leaving a small portion.

One can rarely see any multi storied building, more than the height of the “Thazhikakkudam” (tomb) of the temple, in this place. Also strictly no cremation is taking place in this sacred place. People of this land use a distant compound known as “Kakkaramkuty” for cremation, irrespective of their race, cast or religion. The temple will remain closed in the death of any body in this place, till the body is moved away from here for cremation.

As per legend, Mrigandu Muni (Saint Kousikan), the father and guru of famous Markandeyan, got a beautiful idol of Kiratha Moorthy, while taking bath in the holy river Ganga. He heard a divine voice that the idol must be laid in a very holy and suitable place.). His long search for a most suitable place ended at this place – Kandathil nall uru (Most beautiful place ever seen) – Kanda-uru become Kandiyoor. Thus the temple was established.

As per another legend, the temple is located at the site where Shiva cut off Brahma’s head. Sri Kandiyoor derives its name from this story, which gave Shiva the name, Sri Kantan.Centuries later Parasurama , the avatar of Vishnu, renovated the temple. He gave the tanthrik right to the family of Tharananallur. As per Ilamkulam Kunjan Pillai, the second king of Kulasekhara kingdom, Rajasekhara Varma, re-constructed Kandiyoor temple.Situated in the banks of Achankovil river, Kandiyoor Mahadevar Temple is one km west of Mavelikara town, north side of state highway SH-6, in Alappuzha District. It spreads around 7.5 acres consists of around 12 sub shrines (Upadevalayas) which is unusual for any major Kerala temple.

The temple contains the sub-shrines considered to have been made especially sacred by the presence of all Gods of Hindu Pantheon. There are ancient inscriptions of archaeological importance and it is noted for stone sculptures.It is believed that 108 deities of hindu mythology are present in this temple. Siva is worshiped here as Dekhinamurthy in the morning, Uma-maheswara at the noon and as Kirathamoorthy in the evening.

One is blessed with knowledge if he worships at Kandiyoor in the morning, at noon with post-martial bliss and with removal of obstacles in the evening. Sree Sankaran will bless you with knowlwdge, Sree Kanda will destroy all your sins, Mrithyungaya will vanquish death, Vishwanarha gives you peace and Parvatheesha gives a joyful life with your partner. One can worship Siva in Panchmukha form by worshiping from the South-West corner of Pradakshina Vazhy by viewing five Thazikakudams of Shiva temples. This is considered to be equel to the Kailasa Visit.

People who cannot go to Vaikam can pray at Kandiyoor on the Ashtamay, both are equel.Other deities in the temple are Vishnu, Parvatheesan, Nagaraja, Nagayakhi and other Nagas, Sasthav, Gosala Krishnan, Sankaran, Sreekandan, Vadakkumnathan, Ganapathy, Mrithyungayan, Subramanyan, Moola Ganapathy, Annapoorneswary, Brahma Rakshas, all have its own separate temple buildings.

The 10-day-long annual temple festival falls in the Malayalam month of Dhanu (mid-December – mid-January) with arattu (holy bath) on Thiruvathira day. Temple timings are 5.45 am to 11 am and 5pm to 7.45pm

4.1.9 Chengannur Mahadeva Temple,PRST 4 & PSBT-14

Chengannur Mahadeva Temple, State Highway 1, Kizhakke Nada, Chengannur, Alappuzha, Kerala 689121 PRST 4 & PSBT-14 Chengannur Mahadeva Temple located at Chengannur, at a distance of 43 kms from Alappuzha, Kerala is a Parasurama Shiva Kshetram – PRST 04 -one of 108 Shiva Temples – and a Parasurama Kshetram Bhagavathy Temples -PSBT 14 – one of 108 Bhagavaty Temples of Kerala.

It is a sprawling temple complex with a circular Sanctum. Lord Shiva and Parvathi Devi are the main investitures of this temple. Differing from other temples, there are two main Shrines in this temple. Lord Shiva facing East and Devi facing West. The main shrine is a conical copper plated one. Devi’s main Idol is made with an alloy of five metals (PANCHALOHAM). The Shivalingam, is covered with a gold plate bearing an image of Ardhanareeswara – or the Shiva-Shakti manifestation of Shiva.

The other sub-investitures of the temple are Ganapathi, Shasta (Lord Ayyappan), Chandikeswaran, Neelagrivan, Ganga, and Naagar. There is also a shrine of SreeKrishna nearby.

The temple was constructed centuries back in accordance with an architectural design evolved by the famous Perunthachan. In the 18th Century the temple complex was damaged by fire and renovated later by Vanghipuzha Thampuran except the KUTHAMBALAM (Performance Hall). This could not be restored to its original position as it had been designed and constructed by Perunthachan. The structure of the Kuthambalam originally constructed by Perunthachan was in such a manner that the shadow of the performer would not fall on the stage if all the lamps were lit on each of the post of the Kuthambalam. The mukhamandapam in front of the temple and other mandapams in this temple are full of exquisite woodwork.

Compared to other temples, this temple has a peculiarity of its own, quiet distinct from other temples. The interesting belief and festival of this Temple is TRIPUTHARATTU which is considered as a symbol of fertility. This festival is connected with a menstruation ceremony, called Thripputhu which is observed periodically in the temple during when the temple is closed for three days during the irregular menstruation of the deity. That is why this temple is also considered as Shakthi Peedam.

The temple has a beautiful Koothambalam (temple theatre), stunning Mandapams (pavilions) and a mesmerizing mukhamandapam (frontage of the sanctum), covered with exquisite woodwork.

As per legend, after Sati Devi immolated herself on being insulted by her father, King Daksha, an enraged Lord Siva destroyed the kingdom and started his destructive Thandava carrying Devi’s body. To calm him down, Lord Vishnu cut the body of Goddess into small pieces with his Chakra. It is believed that Chengannur is where Devi’s waist fell.

Another legend says that after their marriage, Lord Siva and Parvathy visited Sage Agasthya at Shonadri. There, Devi went to periods and the place where she waited out her menstruation came to be called Chen (red) Kunnu (hill) Ooru (place) or Chengannur.

The third legend says that Kannaki meditated here after killing King of Madurai in retaliation of him ordering her husband Kovilan to death sentence.

As per the legend related to Mahabharatha, this is where Yudhishtira offered prayers to Lord Vishnu to expiate for telling the lie that killed guru Dronacharya during the Mahabharatha Battle

Other Temples Near to Chengannur Mahadeva Temple are : 1. Kunnathumala Mahadeva Temple. 2. Aranmula Sreekrishna Temple.8 kms from Chengannur. 3. Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple. 4 Kms away from Chengannur Mahadeva Temple. 5. Thiruvanvandoor Sreekrishna Temple. 6. Thrichitat Sreekrishna Temple. 7. Chakkulathukavu Devi Temple – 8. Thiruvalla Sreevallabhaswami Temple.- 9. Sasthamkulangara (Chathankulangara) Temple.- To Return to Index of Contents, Click Here. Otherwise Continue

4.2 Other Bhagavathy Temples

4.2.1 Varanad Devi Temple

Varanad Devi Temple, M9W6+JP4, Varanad, Kerala 688524 Varanad Devi Temple is located at Varanad, Alappuzha district, Kerala at a distance of 25 kms from Alapuzha.

The Varanad Sri Jagadambika Devi temple is a very ancient temple and Goddess Shakthi is the presiding deity of this temple as Sri Jagadambika Devi. The temple of Sri Jagadambika Devi at Varanad is a great Kerala temple architecture. Along with Goddess Jagadambika Devi, there is a shrine for ‘Kodumkali’. Every day during the mid noon pooja “Guruti Abhishekam” is conducted and this is the main offering. Another important offering is the “Kodumkali Guruti” which is conducted at night.

Lord Shiva is considered to be an important deity of this temple. Lord Shiva is respected and adored as a father at this temple. In this temple, daily offerings and Archanas are conducted separately. ‘Pradosha pooja’ and ‘Shivarathri pooja’ are the most important poojas of this Shiva temple. Rakteswari Devi is situated outside the temple wall, as the main Sub deity. People believe that certain ailments related to women, small pox etc can be cured if we pray to the Devi with faith. To cure such diseases, there are special poojas conducted here, on the last Friday of every Malayalam month.

As per the legend Varanad Bhagavathy is the deity that was worshiped by a respected, aged Thampuran belonging to the Vayalar Putiyaykkal Kovilakam. One day the Thampuran started on a journey to a relative’s house in Mannancherry. While traveling on a boat (Villu vallam) on the Vembanad lake, Thampuran had with him a Panchaloha idol of the Goddess, which contained the power of the goddess. No sooner had the boat sailed into the Vembanad lake than dark clouds heralding rain started to roll on the sky. Even though it was the month of Kumbha, seeing the signs of rain, certain doubts arose in Thampuran’s mind.Suddenly a fierce storm started raging with thunder and storm.The lake became furious. Huge waves started juggling with that small boat.

Sensing that there would be a terrible calamity if the boat was not immediately taken to the shore, Thampuran soon directed the boat towards a nearby forest area. It was a place overgrown with shrubs and trees. He saw a big tree at some distance. Once he pulled the boat onto the sand shore, Thampuran took his bundle and the idol of Devi and ran for shelter. When he reached there, he felt extremely happy. Seeing a hollow bark of a huge sprawling tree, Thampuran climbed into it quickly. After a long time, the storm subsided. Thampuran emerged from the hollow of the tree, seeing that dawn was breaking.

After his bath and other duties, he took the bundle and the idol of the goddess from the hollow. He made a small peetam (seat) with the sand and fixed the idol on it. After that, he poured ghee into the Kodivilakku (lamp) and lit the lamp with fire from the Urakallu. He brought water in a folded leaf and conducted abhisheka. With the Erikku flowers plucked from the surroundings, he offered Archana to the goddess. Deciding to continue his journey in the morning, he washed his hands and tried to take the idol from the sand and found that he could not lift the idol. However hard he tried, he could not. Hearing the news, the landlord Vathiyattu Panicker and the people nearby came to the place.

Thampuran who understood that Devi was not interested in going to any other place, did not find anything amiss with the incident. He agreed entirely with the desire of the goddess. Since he had collected the sand with his hands and made a sand peetam for the goddess, the place came to be known as Variyanadu. Later on, his became Varanadu. This is the legend associated with this place. Soon after this incident, the Kizhakkedathu family who were staying nearby and the landlord Vathiyattu Karanavar together constructed the temple and installed the Devi idol.

The Vathiyattu family donated 24 acres of land for the running of the temple. Till date, the first Nivedya(offering) at this temple is that of Vathiyattu Tharavad. There were hundreds of devotees who bought property in the name of Devi and were proud to remain as the servants of Devi, paying a nominal land tax to the Devaswom. Many properties belonging to the Devaswom are said to have originated in this manner. Many devotees bought clothes and ornaments and offered them to the goddess.The copper kodimaram in the temple was made and offered to the goddess by the people of Vayalar around 100 years back. In recent times, the Devaswom installed a Swarna Dhwaja. The Nair community members belonging to the Kizhakkubhagam Pathuveettil Karayogam collected money for Nityashribali and gave it to the temple authorities. The Muriyanadu family arranged to lay the copper ceiling of the temple.

Festivals : Kodiyettu festival, Bharani (on Makara Bharani day), Bharani Dershanam, Navarathri, MandalaMasacharanam, KalamezhuthumPattum, Ganesh Chaturthi. Temple timings are : Morning – 4.30AM to 12PM and Evening – 5PM to 8PM

4.2.2 Chakkulathukavu Devi Temple

Chakkulathukavu Devi Temple, Chakkulathukavu Road, Ambalappuzha, Ambalappuzha – Thiruvalla Rd, Thalavady, Kerala 689571 (Neerattupuram, Thiruvalla) Chakkulathukavu Devi Temple is located at Thalavady, Kerala on the banks of the holy Pampa River at a distance of 30 kms from Alappuzha. Chakkulathamma is famously known as the Mother who answers the call of her devotees.

As per the legend, two demons Sumbha and Nishumbha derived super human powers through rigorous meditation of Lord Brahma. They received a boon that they could be killed only through a battle with woman. Such a condition being almost impossible, Sumbha and Nishumbha conquered Indra and other Devas. They became the unquestioned monarchs of the three worlds. The helpless Devas under had to flee away and take shelter in remote jungles.

Saint Narada feeling pity at the misery of the Gods approaches his father Lord Brahma. Brahma adviced that only one power could restore power and prosperity to Gods and that power was none other than the very Goddess. Devas accordingly moved in search of Goddess. Reaching near Himavan, the epic King of the mountains, they started chanting powerful mantras to appease the Goddess.

Goddess Parvathy grasped the pitiable plight of Devas. There emerged another Goddess from within her as if something comes out of a cover. This was the incarnation of Goddess Durga, having taken a divine form to rescue the Devas from the hardships caused by the asuras.

In a terrible fight between the “Goddess and Asuras under the leadership of Sumba and Nishumbha ,all the asuras were annihilated by the Goddess. The Devas got back the early powers and prosperities. Sage Narada appears in front of them and exults them about the invincibility of goddess Durga. She was the cause as well as witness for the creation, maintenance and destruction the universe, told Narada.It is believed that the Goddess residing in Chakkulathukavu is a wholesome reaction of this all-pervading Goddess namely Durga.

This area where the temple stands now has been a fearful forest. Into this forest came a hunter with the idea of collecting firewood. The hunter had his wife and children with him. The hunter saw a serpent moving towards him. Its hood was erect and its hissing noise was fearful. Not thinking too much the hunter attacked the snake with his axe.

But the snake was not hurt it only slipped into the forest. An expert in the habits of animals, the hunter knew too well that an attacked snake is dangerous if spared. So he followed it. Searching and searching and still he couldn’t spot out the snake. Finally he reached a lake and saw a ‘Chithalputtu’. (A cover of sand made by insects). It was the very snake that he was in search of. the hunter thrust his axe upon the serpent. But it was like cutting in the air. Surprisingly the serpent had disappeared.

The shell upon which the snake coiled was broken. Water was oozing out of it. Now there was ‘Akshatham’ (paddy and rice) and ‘Darbha’ (a peculiar type of grass used for pujas). Meanwhile the wife and kids of the hunter joined him.

There appeared in front of the hunter a hermit with an inexpressible glow of spirituality. The hermit continued to inform that the very Goddess who is in herself the Mother of the Universe has been residing with full powers inside the shell of sand. He advised the hunter to respectfully break the shell. The statue or image of Goddess was within it. This Goddess was Vanadurga whose worship was sure to shower many fold blessings.

Narada himself broke the shell and took out the statue. The hunter and his family bowed before it. Meanwhile the hermit had disappeared. The hunter brought flowers from the forest, offered garlands and prayed. That night he had a dream and it’s was in this dream that the hunter understood that the hermit was Narada.

As the sun sent down its gentle golden rays in the next morning, many had gathered near the hut of the hunter. They submitted many offerings to the Goddess. Henceforth that place turned out to be a spirituality exceptional one.

Members of the Illam (Brahmin House) namely Pattamana constructed proper temple. Pattamana Illam still stands near at the temple. Members of this family have always been especially dearer to the goddess. Damodaran Nambudiri is the Chief Priest. His childhood days vibrate with powerful reflections of the kindness and blessings of Chakkulathamma.

The temple was renovated in 1981. The illuminating idol of Vana Durga with the holy eight hands is installed near the original idol. Lord Shiva, Sastha, Vishnu, Vinayaka, Muruka, Yakshi, Serpent Gods and Navagrahas are installed as ‘Upa Devas’. Temple Timings: 04:30 – 13:00 hrs & 16:30 – 20:00 hrs

4.2.3 Kurattikadu Pattambalam Devi Kshethram

Sri Bhuvaneswari Temple (Kurattikadu Pattambalam Devi Kshethram), 8G7R+F7P, Kurattikadu, Mannar, Kerala 689622 Sri Bhuvaneswari Temple (Kurattikadu Pattambalam Devi Kshethram), is located at Kurattikadu, Mannar, Kerala at a distance of 28 kms from Ambalapuzha. The Goddess is also called as Pattamalathilamma.

.Here the Hoddess Bhuvaneswari one of the Dasa Maha Vidhyas is consecrated ,She is generally referred as “Valia Amma” (great mother) .Along with her , there are temples for Bhadra, Ganapathi and Krishna in the temple. Her devotees take permission from her to buy property, build a house , celebrate the first rice food for the baby etc. They wear new cloths or first attend school or join in their first job. .They start a journey after lighting a lamp before her .

Her devotees believe that she is the daughter of Panayannarkavu Bhagawathi whose temple can be reached only after crossing river Pampa. Once in a year the festival called Anpoli areepara Mahothsavam which is celebrated from Medam 10th to 27th .Daily the Valia Amma visits the homes of her devotees in different villages. She is received by them with great fan fare .The procession everyday returns to the temple at 12 noon. On Medam 13th the Goddess starts her journey to her mothers house. .All her devotees including the members and president of her temple line up on the shore of the Pampa river not allowing the Godess to cross the Pampa river. This is done because they are afraid that once she goes to her mother’s house she may not return.

On Medam 15th Amma goes to the Changayil house and collects, One Para(14 litres) of paddy from that house and goes to other houses. But she again returns to Changayil house to collect and colled five more measures of paddy , as promised by one of the lady ancestors of the family .Then only she gives blessings to the family and go back to the temple .This is called Changayil ottam.On 24th Medam the Ama receives the offerings from Harijans in the form of harvested paddy.A para is not insisted because , they were considered poor .Now many of them offer the Para to the goddess

Early in the morning Her Highness is brought out from the sanctum sanctorum with royal gaiety and drums in the Holy Jeevatha embedded with the Moolabimbam and is royally placed on the peetha. To receive two Anpoli Paras everyday. A customary rhythmic dance of the priest shouldering the Jeevatha is followed along with the special Poojas in the Seva Panthal. Then the Holy procession sets off.

Every household , cleaned and decorated await eagerly for the farbound sounds of Her procession reaching their door. Amma is welcomed with fireworks and vaikuravas and offerings of flowers, paddy,fruits ,aval, malar in the form of para are offered. The accompanying crowd is treated everywhere with fruits, feast and pleasantries. The process goes on uninterrupted until late night and at about 12’o clock the procession returns to the temple and then the daily ritualistic ‘poojas’ and ‘nivedyams’ are offered in the presence of a huge crowd. After this, Amma is once again ritually brought out accompanied by royal drum beats and ‘vaikuravas’ to perform the Anpoli at the zero hours and in most cases in the early hours.

‘Anpoli panthal’ which is considered as a temporary temple is already erected to the north of ‘Elanjithara’ and an ‘Anpoli Kalam’ decorated with divine ritual drawings and fragrant flowers is kept in purity and lighted with Nilavilakku is there in front of the Anpoli Panthal. The rhythmic ritual dance of the shouldering priest in tune to the royal drum beats, come out of the Mathilkettu after 3 rounds around the temple, slowly approaches the Anpoli kalam in ritual steps. Large crowds follow and vaikuravas and fire crackers resounds through out the night. Amma mount in the Jeevatha on the shoulders of the priest ritually dancing on their steps, slowly awakened in this high concentration of dance, music, vaikuravas and the fire crackers.

All of a sudden enters the Anpoli Kalam in the dense forest of light and oil lamps, and performs her own divine dance revelation. The priest becomes unconscious, faints and falls. Great fire works follows. Offerings there are distributed as prasadams to crowds of devotees thronging there and dakshinas are given. Amma is brought back to the SreeKovil. The process is to begin early morning next day

4.2.4 Karazhma Devi Temple

Karazhma Devi Temple, 7GGR+G57, Chennithala, Kerala 690104 Karazhma Devi Temple is located at Chennithala, Kerala at a distance of 29 kms from Ambalapuzha. It is one of the large number of Bhagavathy Temples in Kerala.

Karazhma is bordered by Mavlikara – Thiruvalla road in the West, a beautiful river in the east, lush paddy fields in the north and marshes in the south. Here diety is Vanadurga & Bhadra. Temple is famous for Karazhma Aripara & Anpoli Festival. Ura Jeevitha is formed here. Mezhuvatta Kuda is famous for Kuda thulal. Madhya thiruvithamkoor festivals Concludes here during Karazhma Aripara.

4.2.5 Chettikulangara Bhagavathi Temple

Chettikulangara Bhagavathi Temple, Chettikulangara, P.O, Mavelikara, Kerala 690106 Chettikulangara Bhagavathi Temple is located at Chettikulangara, Mavelikara, Kerala in Alappuzha district at a distance of 30 kms from Ambalapuzha. It is one of the most renowned Devi temples in Kerala, with Sree Bhadrakali as the main deity. It is more than 1000 years old. The Kettukazhcha festival is very famous like Thrissur Pooram.

Sri Parasurama had established 108 Durga temples, 108 Siva temples, 108 Sastha temples, besides 108 Kalaris (place to learn traditional martial arts in front of the deity), Sakthi Kendras etc. Besides he had established five Ambalayas. Jagadambika of Chettikulangara, the Goddess of Oodanadu, is among the five Ambalayams.

It is believed that this temple was consecrated by Padmapadacharyar (a leading disciple of Adi Shankara) on the Uthrittathi day of Makara month in A.D.

The temple has 13 “Karas”, or territories. The temple is at the centre of the oldest four Karas (Erezha South, Erezha North, Kaitha South and Kaitha North) and the rest of the Karas (Kannamangalam South, Kannamangalam North, Pela, Kadavoor, Anjilipra, Mattam North, Mattam South, Menampally and Nadakkavu) surround the temple, which is believed to be 1,200 years old.

The Thantric rights of the temple belongs to Plackudy Illom, With its Tharavadu (Base) in Ambalapuzha. Plackudy is one among the ancient Thantric families of Kerala. The Present temple Thanthric charge is for Brahmasri. Plackudy Unnikrishnan Namboothiri.

The main Upadevathas in the temple premises are Yakshini, Ganapathi, Nagarajav, Balakan, Muhurthi, Naga Yakshi, Thevara Moorthy, Kannamballi bhagavathi, Rekshas (a fierce supernatural creature who feeds on humans)and Vallyachan (Central Travancore parlance for family chieftains; they are worshiped by his descendants after death)

Historians attribute the concept of ‘Kettukazhchas’ – similar to the architecture of the ‘Buddha tradition in square, rectangular and pyramid shapes, to the remnants of the Buddha culture which was widely prevalent in the Central Travancore region a few centuries ago. Chettikulangara Kettukazhcha, conducted every year on the Bharani Nakshathram of Malayalam month ‘Kumbham – It is probably the most amazing cultural visual spectacle in Kerala, similar to the Thrissur Pooram

The event is an offering of the people of Chettikulangara to their beloved deity known for her spontaneous blessings on true devotees as a mark of gratitude, devotion, unflinching faith, and for showering prosperity and protection to their lives. ‘Kettukazhcha’ displays deftly sculpted and decorated forms of ‘ six temple cars known as ‘Kuthiras’, five Therus’ (Chariots ) and icons of Bhima and Hanuman. All the temple cars, chariots and the icons are all incredibly gigantic in size and are many times larger than any other similar Kuthiras and Therus built during the festivities at other temples in the Central Travancore region.

On the move, these out of the world sky scrapping colourful decorations are electrifying, and will create an unforgettable artistic impression in union, especially during the night in the back drop of illuminated lights. Chettikulangara Kettukazhcha heralds the architectural and aesthetic acumen of the ancient people of Chettikulangara, who could convert an improbable out of the world concept to an enormous artistic reality, achieved by collective hardships and will power.

Kuthiras have a height of about 70 to 75 feets, and are a union of four parts– Adikkoottu, Kathirakal, Edakkodaram, Prabhada and Melkkoodaram, one above the other respectively.

Icons of Lord Hanuman, Bhima, Panchali (popular characters from Indian epics) are all paraded to the temple through the city roads.

Kuthiyottam is another important and unique ritual performed to propitiate the deity here. It is a ritual folk dance performed by young boys to the accompaniment of folk music and other instrumental music.

4.2.6 Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple

Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple, Mullackal Rd, Mullakkal, Alappuzha, Kerala 688011 Details of the temple can be seen in my blog : Must Visit Kerala Temples I -part 2 of 2 Shiva and Bhagavathy Temples of Kerala created by Sri Parashuram To Return to Index of Contents, Click Here. Otherwise Continue

4.3 Maha Vishnu Temples

4.3.1 Sree Krishna Swamy Temple, Ambalapuzha

Sree Krishna Swamy Temple, SH 12, Ambalapuzha, Kerala 688561 Sree Krishna Swamy Temple is located at Ambalapuzha, Kerala at a distance of 15 kms from Alapuzha.

Built in the typical Kerala architectural style, Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple is famous all over India for the Pal Payasam, a daily offering of deliciously sweet milk porridge. The temple is also noted for the performance of Pallipaana performed every 12 years by Velans (sorcerers).

The temple also has a majestic display of paintings depicting the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu (Dasavatharam). Devotees are also reminded that is here that the first performance of the legendary Ottanthullal, a powerful satirical folk art that comments on various socio-political issues, was first performed.

The Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple is believed to have been built during 15th – 17th AD by the local ruler Chembakasserry Pooradam Thirunal-Devanarayanan Thampuran. The idol at Ambalapuzha is likened to Parthasarthi with a whip in the right hand and a Shankhu (sacred conch) in the left. This temple is directly associated to the Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Temple. During the raids of Tipu Sultan in 1789, the idol of Sri Krishna from the Guruvayoor Temple was brought to the Ambalappuzha Temple for safe keeping for 12 years.

The temple is associated with the origin of the famous performing art form of Kerala – Ottamthullal. It is believed that legendary Malayalam poet Kalakkaththu Kunchan Nambiar created this unique art form in the Ambalappuzha Temple premises.

As per legend, Lord Krishna, once, appeared in the form of a sage in the court of the King who ruled the region, challenging him to win the game of chess competing with him. Being the chess enthusiast, the King gladly accepted the invitation. The King asked the sage to chose the prize. The sage, being a modest man, wished for a few grains of rice. The grains were placed in the squares in the chess board, each. Every square will have double of its predecessor.

The King lost, needless to say. As he started adding the grains to the board, the King realized the humble sage’s demand was not as humble as he thought it would be. At the end, the number had reached one million. The Royal Granary ran out of rice. The prize reached trillions of tons of rice. Upon seeing the dilemma, the sage revealed his true form. He also told the King that he did not have to pay the debt immediately but over time. The King had to serve Paalpayasam freely to the pilgrims until the debt was paid off.

The Amabalapuzha Temple Festival was established during the fifteenth century AD. At this time, a part of the Travancore was ruled by the Chembakassery Devanarayana Dynasty. The rulers of this dynasty were highly religious and decided that an idol of Lord Krishna was to be brought to the Amabalapuzha Sree Krishna Swamy Temple from the Karinkulam temple. The celebration in commemoration of the bringing of this idol of Lord Krishna is the origin of the Amabalapuzha Temple Festival, also referred to as the Chambakulam Moolam water festival. This festival is conducted every year on the Moolam day of the Mithunam month of the Malayalam era. The Aaraattu festival takes place on the Thiruvonam day in March–April.

4.3.2 Thirupuliyoor Mahavishnu Temple,DD 83

Thirupuliyoor Mahavishnu Temple, Chengannur Kollakadavu Road, Puliyoor, Kerala 689510 DD 83 Details of the temple could be seen in my blog: Must Visit Kerala Temples I – part 1 of 2 Kerala Divya Desams and MahaVishnu Temples

4.3.3 Thiruvanvandoor Mahavishnu Temple, DD 85

Thiruvanvandoor Mahavishnu Temple, Temple Road, Thiruvanvandoor, Kerala 689109 DD 85 Details of the temple could be seen in my blog: Must Visit Kerala Temples I – part 1 of 2 Kerala Divya Desams and MahaVishnu Temples

4.3.4 Thrichittattu Mahavishnu Temple DD 82

Thrichittattu Mahavishnu Temple ,Chengannur, Kerala 689121 DD 82 Details of the temple could be seen in my blog: Must Visit Kerala Temples I – part 1 of 2 Kerala Divya Desams and MahaVishnu Temples To Return to Index of Contents, Click Here. Otherwise Continue

4.4 Other Temples

4.4.1 Haripad Subrahmanya Swamy Temple

Haripad Temple – Aanakottil, Haripad, Kerala 690514 (Subrahmanya Swamy Temple) Details of the temple could be seen in my Blog : Must Visit Kerala Temples I -part 2 of 2 Shiva and Bhagavathy Temples of Kerala created by Sri Parashuram To Return to Index of Contents, Click Here. Otherwise Continue

Continued in Part 3 of 5