Index of Contents
- Introduction
- Parasurama Bhagavathy Temples
- Google Map of Parasurama Kshetrams
- Perurkavu Durga Temple, PSBT 70
- Pisharikkal Bhagavathy Temple, Chalakudy, PSBT 72
- KEEZHADOOR SREE DURGA TEMPLE , Meladoor, PSBT 43
- Poovathussery Durga Temple, PSBT 77
- Sree Durga Temple, Ayroor, PSBT 2
- Vengoor Durga Temple, PSBT 105
- Sree Rajarajeswari Temple, Palarivattom, PSBT65
- Perandoor Bhagavathi Temple, PSBT 71
- Nediyakulangara Durgamatha Temple , Uliyannoor, PSBT 93
- Vettikkavu Bhagavathi Temple, Irimpanam, PSBT 49
- Karthyayani Devi Temple, Cherthala, PSBT17
- Thathappilly Sri Durga Temple, PSBT 82
- Cheranalloor Bhagavathy Temple, PSBT15
- Kothakulangara Sree Bhagavathy Temple, Angamaly, PSBT46
- Kumaranalloor Karthyayani Devi Temple, PSBT48
- Other Bhagavathy Temples
- Dharma Sastha 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 details of Parasurama Bhagavathy Temples (PSBT) around Ernakulam. Please also see my earlier blog some Temples in Ernakulam area were covered.: Kerala Temples IV Part 5 of 5 Kozhikode, Ernakulam, Kottayam, Pathanamthitta and Idukki district temples. Also see my earlier Blog: 50 Famous temples around Ernakulam – Shiva Temples – Part 1 of 2 and have darshan of both Parasurama Shiva and Bhagavathy temples around Ernakulam.
I stayed for 3 days in Sapphire Club Metro Hotel, Ernakulam and one day at SPOT ON 45361 Ar Square, MALA, Valiyaparambu; Still I could not have darshan of all the Parasurama Bhagavathy Temples around Ernakulam.
2. Parasurama Bhagavathy Temples (PSBT)
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 Kshetrams – Unexplored Gems of Temples in India for more details. Details of some more Parashurama established Shiva and Bhagavathy temples 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.Google Map of Parasurama Kshetrams
The locations of Parasurama prathishta temples are embedded in the Interactive Google Map below. 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
4.Perurkavu Durga Temple, PSBT 70
Perurkavu Durga Temple, Perurkavu Temple Rd, Kerala 680731 PSBT 70 Perurkavu Durga Temple, Kerala is located at a distance of 40 kms from Thrissur and 8kms from Chalakudy. It is a Parashurama Bhagavathy Temple PSBT 70 . 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.
Thekkekaavillamma in the form of Bhadrakali is presiding here as main sub deity. Earlier this temple were owned by Kodassery Kartas and later handed over to Kerala Kshethra Samrakshna Samithy.It is quite a big temple, well maintained. There is a small temple tank for taking bath.
Main festival in this temple is KARTHIKA in the Meenom month of malayalam calendar and Prathishtadinam is on Chithira in Midhunam month. “Karthika Oottu” in Vrischikom month also famous here. Desaguruthi is celebrated in grand manner on every 10th day of Medom month in Malayalam calendar at guruthippala thus this place received the name “GURUTIPPALA”
Main offerings are : Choroonu, Thulabharam, Pattum Thaaliyum (specially for marriage), Pudukkala nivedyam,Ganapathi homam, Divasa pooja, Thrikaala pooja, Samooha araadhana on every friday evening, Vidya Sooktam, Bhaagya Sooktam, Aikamathya Sooktam, Swayamvara Pushpaanjaly, Chuttuvilkkum Niramalayum, Bhagavatiseva, Sree Lalitha Sahasra namaarchana and parayanam are some of the main offerings.
Every 16th of Karkodakam month in malayalam calendar Oushadha seva is offered, Pudukkalanivedyam on Makara chovva in Thekkekavu, Vishu kaineetom on vishu and Vidyaarambhom on Vijayadasami are also important at this temple Perurkkavu durga temples is situated in Mukundapuram taluk, Annallur village, Mala Panjayath, Pazhukkara desom, thrissur district, which is also known as Gurutippala which is one amongst 108 durga temples. The presiding deity here is goddess durga. Thekkekaavillamma in the form of Bhadrakali is presiding here as main sub deity.
Contact for Darshan and Poojas : Narayanan Nambudri 9744515518 Trustee ; Ph:7034878677 PUNARUDHARANA SAMITHI. To return to Index of Contents, Click Here. Otherwise Continue
5.Pisharikkal Bhagavathy Temple, Chalakudy, PSBT 72
Pisharikkal Bhagavathy Temple, Ashtamichira Chalakudi Rd, Chalakudy, Kerala 680722 PSBT 72 Pisharikkal Bhagavathy Temple is located at Chalakudy, Kerala at a distance of 30 kms from Thrissur and 23 kms from Cochin International Airport. It is a Parashurama Bhagavathy Temple PSBT 72 . 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 mentioned as Pishari in Durga kshetra stotra namavali.
Chalakudy is a municipal town situated on the banks of Chalakudy River in Thrissur District of the Kerala State in India.The name ‘Chalakudy’ might have come from two words, ‘yagashala’ (which means temporary settlement for conducting sacrifice) and ‘kody’ (which means flag). Once Chalakudy was famous all over India as a place for conducting sacrifice. Many rishis used to come over here as it was considered as a sacred land. In order to identity these settlements; they hoisted flags next to it. Thus those entire area got its name‘’yagashalakody”, this however evolved in to “shalakody” and finally in to today’s Chalakudy. Chalakudy was the head quarters of Kodassery nadu.Sakthan Thampuran the ruler of kingdom of Cochin formed Kodassery (Chalakudy) taluk in the 1790 by adding Kuzhurnadu, Ayyanezhinadu, Korattynadu, Malayattur, and Kanjur-chowara (now in Aluva taluk) to Kodassery nadu.
The vigraham or bhimbham in the temple is Kannadi Shila Prathishta. The deity faces east. The Upa Devatas worshipped in the temple are Ganapathy, Shiva, and Bhadrakali.Bhadrakali has prominence in the temple and it is said that this prathishta was of later origin.. Pisharikkal Bhagavathy temple participates in the Arattupuzha pooram.
6.KEEZHADOOR SREE DURGA TEMPLE , Meladoor, PSBT 43
KEEZHADOOR SREE DURGA TEMPLE , Meladoor, Alathur, Kerala 680732 PSBT 43 KEEZHADOOR SREE DURGA TEMPLE is located at Meladoor, Alathur, Kerala at a distance of 40 kms from Thrissur and 20 kms from Cochin International Airport. It is a Parashurama Bhagavathy Temple PSBT 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.
The main deity worshipped in the temple is Goddess Durga. She is consecrated in a circular (vatta sreekovil) sanctum which faces east. The murti worshipped in the temple is 5 feet tall.
The murti in the shrine is of a unique sankalpam. She has had her mangalsutra daranam but her marriage had not taken place. Thus the deity is a virgin.
As the deity is a virgin there are no Upa Devatas inside the main temple compound. All Upa Devatas including Shiva, Ganapathy, Ayyappan and Rakshas are worshipped outside the main temple compound with seperate sannadhis..
The temple is maintained by Cochin Dewaswom Board .The main offering in the temple is Brahmani Pattu for early and good marriage. The 8-day annual temple festival at Keezhadoor Sree Durga temple ends with Arattu on the Karthika nakshatra day in Medam month.
The Contact phone for the temple : 9497857578 The temple Darshan timings are : 6-9.30 am, 5.30-7 pm.
7. Poovathussery Durga Temple, PSBT 77
Poovathussery Durga Temple, Poovathussery, Kerala 680741 PSBT 77 Poovathussery Durga Temple is located at Poovathussery, Kerala at a distance of 40 kms from Thrissur and 15 kms from Cochin International Airport. It is a Parashurama Bhagavathy Temple PSBT 77 . 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 also known as Poovathussery Karthyayani temple – as the sankalpam of Mother Goddess worshipped in the temple is that of Goddess Karthiyayini.The murti of Goddess in the temple is nearly 6 feet tall. The darshanam of Poovathussery Durga temple is towards east.
The murti of Goddess is chaturbahu with four hands. She holds Shankh and Chakra. The Upa Devatas worshipped in the temple are Ganapathy, Shiva, Yakshi and Nagas.
As per history, the temple was the grama kshetram of Adoor village, which was a Namboothiri village of ancient times. This is an ancient Durga Devi temple.This is under the patronage of one famous(malliyoor) Namboothiri Family.
8. Sree Durga Temple, Ayroor, PSBT 2
Sree Durga Temple, Aluva – Mala Rd, Ayroor, Kerala 683579 PSBT 2 Sree Durga Temple is located in Aluva – Mala Rd, Ayroor, Kerala at a distance of 13 kms from Cochin International Airport and 50 kms from Thrissur. It is a Parashurama Bhagavathy Temple PSBT 2. . 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. There is another Ayroor in Pathanamthitta, Kerala (Puthiyakavu Devi Temple).
The presiding deity of this temple is bhadrakali. The Upa Devata worshipped in the temple is Sri Krishna. There is a seperate sannidhi for Mahavishnu. The main festival in the temple is observed on the Thrikarthika nakshatra day in Vrischikam month. The temple belonged to Paravoor Thampuran and Maramattom Mana.
The contact phone number for darshan / Pooja : 9495322579 Sandeep Nambudri.
9. Vengoor Durga Temple, PSBT 105
Vengoor Durga Temple, Vengoor, Angamaly, Kerala 683546 PSBT 105 Vengoor Durga Temple is located at Vengoor, Angamaly, Kerala at a distance of 8 kms from Cochin International Airport and 45 kms from Thrissur. It is a Parashurama Bhagavathy Temple PSBT105. . 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
It is said and believed that Lord Parasurama did the “Prathishta’ of this temple and that this is the first among the 108 prime and puranic Durga Devi Temples he made in Kerala.
As per history, Tipu destroyed the temple and cut off the hands of Bhagavathi “Durga devi’s ” VIGRAHA , whcih was said to have been with six hands . After the destruction he went on to attack the Kingdom of ” THIRUVITAMCORE” . But he failed to cross Aluva River.. He stayed on Alwaye sand beach for the famous battle at fort “NEDUNKOTTA” . Because of the unexpected water rise in Alwaye river ( which was said to have been created to stop the invasion of Sulthan over Travancore by opening the Dam shutters , named as MULLA PERIYAR. ) . Sulthan’s army suffered heavy losses, Tippu was also injured and another attack over “SREE RANGA PATTANA” his capital made Tipu return home . It is said that, the first huge destruction of His army in NEDUNKOTTA WAR was the cause for his vengence and the destruction of temples all over kerala.
The Temple was partially ravaged & destroyed by Tipu Sultan’s Military .The destroyed vengoor devi vigraha remained in the temple for a long time, as nobody could take care .In 1960’s “ASHTAMANGALYA PRASHNA” it showed that it is not good to keep the broken devi vigraha and in the presence of whole vengoor , the old “VIGRAHA ” was removed and by following the whole “Aacharam’s ” for the dead, the vigraham was released in “KALADY RIVER” . It is said that the present murti was retrieved from underground. It was under the earth at Mylakodath Mana, near the temple. The murti is not completely finished. The present Vigraha of Devi takes the place . It is rumouerd that when the old VIGRAHA was taken to the River ants surrounded it like in corpses. It takes around 8 days for transfeering “CHAITHANYA” from old one to new one.
A full size idol and ‘Vattasreekovil’ the sanctum santorum in a round as in Vengoor are rare scenes. The murti of Goddess Durga is nearly 5.5 feet tall including the peedom. The darshanam of Vengoor Durga Devi temple is towards east. The temple used to participate in the Arattupuzha pooram.
It is said that one should visit the Sri Krishna Temple at ‘Kizhakke Mana’ after Sri Durga Temple to derive ‘maximum’ blessings! This could be true in view of the historical link between ‘Kizhakke Mana’ and ‘Durga Devi’. The shrine has a vatta sreekovil – round sanctum sanctorum.
The nine-day annual festival in the temple begins ends on Uthram nakshatra in Meenam month with arattu. The contact for darshan and pooja : 9072887778 Anil Warrier. Temple timings are : 6-9,30 am, 5.30-7 pm. To return to Index of Contents, Click Here. Otherwise Continue
10. Sree Rajarajeswari Temple, Palarivattom, PSBT65
Sree Rajarajeswari Temple, Palarivattom, Kochi, Kerala 682025 PSBT65 Sree Rajarajeswari Temple located at Palarivattom, Kerala at a distance of 12 kms from Kochi is a Parashurama Bhagavathy Temple PSBT65 . 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
Sri Raja Rajeswari temple is situated at Palarivattom, one of the major commercial destinations in the heart of Cochin. It is considered to be one of the oldest temples in this region. Goddess Sri Raja Rajeswari, (considered to be ‘Jala Durga’) is the main deity of this centuries old temple. As the Godess was installed under a Pala tree, she came to be known as Palachuvattil Devi and the placed acquired the name Palarivattom.
Earlier this temple was under the control of Swarnathu mana for a long period, and it is believed that Jagadguru Sri Sankaracharya had visited this temple during that time. Later the control of the temple was transferred to Edapally Elangur Swarupam. Situated within the state boundary of the old Kochi Raja and near to the erstwhile Travancore State, this temple had an international acclaim during that time.
There are four other main temples viz. Pokkalam Siva Temple in the east, Pavakulam Siva Temple in the west, Devankulangara Krishna Temple in the north, and Ananthapuram Krishna Temple in the south.
In 1968, the ‘Palarivattom Sri Raja Rajeswari N.S.S Karayogam’ came into existence, and took over the charge of the dilapidated old temple. ‘Ashtamangalya Prasna ‘ was conducted and, thus in 1984, under the auspices of the Karayogam and under the overall charge of Pukalakkatu Advocate P. Gopalakrishnan Menon, a temple reconstruction / rehabitation committee was constituted.
This Committee reconstructed and improved the old building to the present beautiful and impressive temple. The new copper flag mast and the spacious ‘ Aana pandal ‘ were built in 1991 and 1996 respectively. Artistically decorated Srikovil, Thidappalli, Namaskara Mandapam, Naalambalam, Balikkalpura, Koothambalam, Sadhyaalayam and the temple pond, are the main attractions of this temple, where hundreds of devotees visit daily to offer their prayers.
Apart from Goddess Sri Raja Rajeswari other deities in the temple complex are: Lord Ganesha, Lord Ayyappa, Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva and Goddess Naga Yakshi. The rituals and the poojas of the temple are done by the priests from the Puliyannur Illam.
Navaratri is one of the greatest Hindu festivals. It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. Navaratri takes place at the beginning of October around harvest time. During this period, Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati are worshipped as three different manifestations of Shakti, or cosmic energy. Hinduism is the only religion in the world which has emphasised to such an extent the motherhood of God.Nava-ratri” literally means nine nights. During Navaratri, we invoke the energy aspect of God in the form of the universal mother, commonly referred to as Durga, which literally means the remover of miseries of life.
Contact Phone : +91 484 2349492 Temple timings : 5.30am to 10.30 am 5-8 pm
11. Perandoor Bhagavathi Temple, PSBT 71
Perandoor Bhagavathi Temple, Chambady Rd, Punnakkal, Elamakkara, Kochi, Kerala 682026 PSBT 71 Perandoor Bhagavathi Temple located at perandoor, Kerala at a distance of 12 kms from Kochi is a Parashurama Bhagavathy Temple PSBT71 . 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
A distinctive feature of this temple is about it’s deity where goddess “Durga”, first of the five forms of “Adiparasakthi” in the form of an eight year old girl. Durga in the “Karthyayani Bhava” is worshipped here.
As per legend, Cheraman Perumal, the last emperor of the great Chera dynasty who ruled Kerala during the 10th century AD, renounced his empire and all material possessions in order to lead an ascetic life. The empire was divided and given among the regional chiefs and lords under him. At the last minute he remembered that the royal priests “Elangallur namboothiris” who were not given anything. He made amends for this by taking back some portions of land from other lords and gave it to the Royal priest family. Thus began a new dynasty called the “Elangallur swaroopam” (The kingdom of Elangallur family) in Edappally, which is one of the only two brahmin royalties in Kerala. The kingdom included Edappally, parts of Karthikapally, Haripad, Cherthala and places in and around Mavelikkara.
Kings of Elangallur Swaroopam (known as “Edappally Thampuran” meaning of Lord of Edappally) were known to be great patrons of temples and there were several prominent temples under them including the famous Ganapathy temple at Edappally and Sastha Temple at Thrikkunnapuzha (near Cherthala in Alleppey district).
It was their practice to personally oversee the running of the festivals under them. One one such occasion the Thampuran was staying at Thrikkunnapuzha during the festival at the Sastha Temple there. At night he had a dream in which the Goddess Durga appeared to him and expressed her wish to stay at Edappally near Ganapathy.(The idol of Ganapathy who is the Chief deity of the royal family was always carried by the king along with him). Accordingly next morning, the king started towards Edappally carrying an idol of Durga together with the idol of Ganesa. He travelled up to the west end of Edappally by boat and got down there and started towards the Palace.
On the way the idol of Durga fell down from his hand. King was very much upset at this incident and called his astrologers for advice. The astrologers found that at the place where the idol had fallen there had been a Durga Temple built by Parasurama and that the Goddess Durga liked to be there at the same place. Accordingly a temple was duly constructed which became a prominent one among the 108 Durga temples of Kerala. Since the idol had “Perandu Veenu” (Malayalam phrase for falling down unexpectedly) the place became known as Perandoor and the temple became known as Perandoor Bhagavathy Temple.
Being the main deity of the people under the “Elangallur swaroopam” the Perandoor Bhagavathy is the family goddess of a great many families (who are called the “moola kutumbams”) in southern and middle Kerala.
Important Festivals are : Thrikkarthika ,Thiruvutsavam , Makam Thozhal, Navarathri / Durgapooja . Maiin offerings: A distinctive feature of this temple is about it’s “Prathishta” (Deity) which is goddess “Durga”, first of the five forms of “Adiparasakthi”. Durga in the “Karthyayani Bhavam” is worshipped here as an eight year old child.
Temple timings are 5am to 10.30am and 5.30pm to 7.45 pm. Contact for darshan and poojas : Damodaran Nambudri 7558940352
12. Nediyakulangara Durgamatha Temple , Uliyannoor, PSBT 93
Nediyakulangara Durgamatha Temple , 482V+MPP, Uliyannoor, Aluva, Kerala 683108 PSBT 93 Nediyakulangara Durgamatha Temple is located at Uliyannoor, Aluva, Kerala at a distance of 12 kms from Cochin International Airport and 58 kms from Thrissur. It Kochi is a Parashurama Bhagavathy Temple PSBT 93 . 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.
It is a very small temple and not much details are available for the temple. It was closed when we reached in the evening at 6.50 pm itself. Hopefully will have darshan in future. Uliyannoor Sree Mahadeva Temple – Parasurama Shiva Kshetram PRST 17 – One of the biggest in Kerala is nearby.
13. Vettikkavu Bhagavathi Temple, Irimpanam, PSBT 49
Vettikkavu Bhagavathi Temple. Seaport – Airport Road, X9G3+FQV, Ambalamugal, Irimpanam, Kakkanad, Kerala 682309 PSBT 49 Vettikkavu Bhagavathi Templeis located in Irimpanam, Kakkanad, Kerala at a distance of 10 kms from Ernakulam. It is a Parashurama Bhagavathy Temple PSBT 49 . 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.
Thripunithura Irumpanam Vettikavu Bhagavathy Temple is one of the few Bhadrakali temples in Kerala, that is dedicated to Vedic tradition, with a regular recital of Vedic Mantras and Murajapas. Popular across the Nation and even beyond national borders visit Vettikavu Bhagwati Temple to experience the power and glory of the Goddess and to get rid of the evils of life. It is widely believed that worshipping the Goddess Vettikkavilamma, the deity of eternal mercy will help anyone to realize even the seemingly impossible desires in life.
The temple faces west on the Thripunithura Seaport-Airport Road. Chottanikkara Devi Temple is another iconic temple located close to Vettikavu Bhagavathy Temple. Mahishasuramardini is the goddess who incarnated to save the world from the great calamity and havoc created by Mahishasura. The idol of Bhadrakali Bhagwati is worshiped in this emotion and context. Vettikavu Temple is not famous for its rare rituals and ceremonies, but for the cosmic atmosphere of worship and peace created by the power of Vedic mantras. Upon entering the holy turf, the sound of Rigvedic mantras and Murajapatas rejuvenates the body and mind with eternal bliss.
There is always a rush of devotees here to overcome obstacles in life and to achieve prosperity. Guruthi and the 12-bowl valiya Guruthi (grand Guruthi) are the auspicious rituals observed here.. All Guruthi are spiritual. Guruthi is an offering for liberation from the miseries of everyday life. The “Prasadam” or holy offering of this is provided to the devotees. The Theertham of Kaivattaka Guruthi will be given to everyone. Many devotees expect to be healed from diseases offering Guruthi. Twelve vessels of Guruthi are especially famous in rituals.
It places great emphasis on good fortune and relief. This is a special offering of twelve “Uruli” (A Bronze Vessel) filled with Guruthi and placed on a pole. There is also the Guruthi which is offered on the respective days. The ritual Great Guruthi is the mystic process that bonds all the evil spirits, negativity, and demon-like spirits in tune with the rhythm of the Goddess Chilamb. There is no evil or bad that can escape this bondage. Devotees are healed and rescued from illness and other grief.
Vettikavu Bhagwati Temple is one of the few temples that has performed more than a thousand rituals. Only a few temples as famous as the Chottanikkara Temple have crossed this landmark. The temple is small, compact, neat and well maintained. The goddess is very beautiful and powerful.
Temple timings are : 5-11 am, 5.30 – 8 pm; Contact for darshan, Pooja : 8547178755; Famous Chottanikkara Bhagavathi Temple is nearby. One must have darshan of both the temples and get blessed by Goddess Bhagavathy.
14. 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:
Iratti and Thadi are the famous vazhipadu, Cherthala pooram is the second famous pooram in Kerala Kalabham, in familywise, can be held on there, kalabham is a famous vazhipadu. Temple timings :0530-1100 Hrs 5-8 pm; Contact for darshan, Poojas : 9947849168 Anil Nambudri +91 94474 73092 To return to Index of Contents, Click Here. Otherwise Continue
15. Thathappilly Sri Durga Temple, PSBT 82
Thathappilly Sri Durga Temple, Mannam Karingamthuruth Rd, Kerala 683520 PSBT 82 Thathappilly Sri Durga Temple is located near Vadakkan Paravoor at Kottuvally village, Kerala at a distance of 24 kms from Ernakulam. It is a Parashurama Bhagavathy Temple PSBT 82 . 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 Prathishta in the temple is only the feet (kalpadam) of Goddess Durga. The deity is swayambhu or of divinely appeared and not made by human beings. The belief is that head of goddess is worshipped in Cherthala, body in Cheranalloor and leg in Thathappilly. The Upa Devatas worshipped in the temple are Shiva, Ganapathy and Sastha.
As per the legend of the temple, once Namboothiri of Vezhaparam and Namboothiri of Mavelipuram went to take a bath in the pond near where the temple is today to get clean on the way. While taking a bath, they felt a special divine presence there. So after bathing, on their way back, they saw a foot of the girl. Vezhaparampil Namboothiri recognized that it was the feet of Goddess Yoga Maya (Durga Devi) and gave the grains he had to Mavelipuram Namboothiri and instructed him to make an offering as soon as possible. It is believed that then Namboothiri performed puja rituals at Vezhaparam and enshrined the goddess and at Mavelipuram Namboothiri grains were ground and offered as offerings.
This experience happened on Pooram day in the month of Pisces. Since then, Puramhotsavam started on Pooram day in the month of Pisces where the girl goddess was enshrined. Just like Mavelipuram Namboothiri used to grind grains and offer it as a nivedya, even today the nivedya is offered here. This is known as Poorapodi.
It is believed that Bhadrakali here loves sage flower the most. It is believed that it is enough to offer sage flower to the goddess for the purpose and prayers, and common believers offer sage the goddess on a banana leaf. Believers here say that if you offer chembarathimala to the goddess for ten days, any impossible thing will happen. It is also believed that if you pray in front of the goddess by lighting oil and ghee lamps, you will get prosperity. It is believed that offering Para offering will bring healing. Katumpayasam and Koutupayasam offerings are favorite of the Goddess. There is a belief that burning Shastava and burning it will get rid of danger, and if you pray to Nagayakshithara, it is believed that the desired things will happen quickly
Since Goddess Durga here is a girl, the goddess sleeps outside the temple. Usually after the night puja, the virgin goddess is moved to the outer palliira. That is, after the night dinner pooja, the body of the goddess is taken to the patupura of the temple accompanied by a lamp, and later in the morning, the goddess is carried to the sanctum sanctorum. The goddess resides inside the shrine accompanied by two gatekeepers. On the south side there is a deity of Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha. Outside the temple reside Brahmarakshas, Naga deities and Shasta. Bhadrakali is invoked on the wooden plaque on the pillar in front of the shrine.
Although the Purotsavam on the day of Pooram in the month of Pisces is famous, there is no elephant procession and fireworks like in normal Purams. This is because it is a girl deity. Many rituals cannot be seen there like in normal temples. But here is Nitya Puja. It is believed that once an elephant was raised here, the goddess got angry and stoned the elephant. It is also said that the office of the present temple is built on top of that stone.
The sacrificial stone in front of the temple was destroyed during Tipu’s campaign .The temple was also badly damaged that day. Later the Devaswom Board took over the temple and took it over and built the temple we see today and enshrined the deity in that temple. In earlier times, the goddess was enshrined on a stone floor. Later, when the Pooram takes place, special rituals and pujas are performed to bring the Goddess from the temple to this stone floor.
The temple pond, which is the main part of the temple, is now half overgrown. Adhering to beliefs, the temple pool has a very important place in the legend. Three temples Usually those who come for darshan at Tattapilly temple also visit two other temples. First visiting the Devi temple, then entering the Krishna temple, Ghandakarnan and Muttappan visit the stables by going to the stables. Temple timings are 5.30 am to 9.00 am and 5:30 PM to 7 PM.Contact for darshan, Poojas : Prakash 9495526703
16. Cheranalloor Bhagavathy Temple, PSBT15
17. Kothakulangara Sree Bhagavathy Temple, Angamaly, PSBT46
18. Kumaranalloor Karthyayani Devi Temple, PSBT48
19. Other Bhagavathy Temples
Some of the Bhagavathy temples though are not in the category of PSBT, are quite popular : Keezhoor Bhagavathy Temple, Kaduthuruthy, Chottanikkara Devi Temple , Ernakulam and Dakshina Mookambika Temple North Paravur. Details of these temples are given below:
19.1 Keezhoor Bhagavathy Temple, Kaduthuruthy
Keezhoor Bhagavathy Temple, Kalavedhi street Kezhoor, QFVJ+22P, Appanchira Bridge, Kaduthuruthy, Kerala 686604 Keezhoor Bhagavathy Temple is located at Kezhoor, Kaduthuruthy, Kerala at a distance of 37 kms from Ernakulam.
The temple has three main deities – Shiva, Vishnu and Bhadrakali. The deities face east. Festival in the temple is only dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali.
There is a belief that the original murti in this temple was a Yakshi. Another belief is that Shiva and Vishnu were the original murtis. The local ruler Keezhur Naduvazhi once went on a hunting expedition and found the Bhadrakali murti in Mangatu Kulam. He consecrated the Bhadrakali murti in the temple and the temple gained importance in the region as a Bhagavathy temple.
The Upa Devatas in the temple are Ganapathy, Yakshi, Sastha and Nagam. Yakshi, Sastha and Nagam are worshipped in the same sreekovil.
The annual festival at Keezhoor Bhagavathy temple is observed from Medam 15 to Medam 20. The festival begins with kodiyettam and ends with arattu. Pana ritual is held from Pathamudayam (April 23 to April 26). Thalappoli and Kumbha Kudam too are held during the period.
Parasuramar prathishta Sri Dharma Shastha Temple in Keezhoor is nearby and one should visit both temples..
19.2 Chottanikkara Devi Temple , Ernakulam
Chottanikkara Devi Temple , Chottanikkara, Ernakulam, Kerala 682312 Chottanikkara Devi Temple is located at Chottanikkara, at a distance of 15 kms from Ernakulam, Kerala.The ‘Devi’ in the temple is known for the healing powers, particularly relating to mental illness and disorders.
The Divine Mother known as Rajarajeswari (Adiparasakthi) is worshipped here in three forms Saraswathy in the morning, Lakshmi at noon and Durga in the evening. The golden hued idol of Bhagavathy 4 to 5 ft. high, is bedecked with flowers, garlands, jewels and bathed in myriad of lights splendidly. The idol has four arms. The upper right holds the disc, the upper left bears the conch, the lower right hand is held in a boon-conferring pose and the lower left indicates the abhaya (fearlessness) pose. The idol of the deity in the temple is not fixed to the ground. Hence the area around the pedestal is full of loose sand. Water offered during ablution ceremonies percolates underground. It is believed that the water flows underground and joins the tirtha of the Onakkur Bhagawati temple, one and half furlongs away.
There is an Idol of Mahavishnu on the same pedestal and so the Deity is called Ammenarayana, Devinarayana, Lakshminarayana and Bhadrenarayana also. Along with Lakshmi & Narayana there are idols of Brahma, Siva, Ganapathi (Ganesh), Subramanya and Sastha on the same pedestal.
Apart from the main deity, the temple complex consists of Kizhukkavu Bhagavathy temple, temples for Sastha, Siva, Ganapathi, Nagas and other Upa-Devas. Dharma Sastha shrine is on the north-east side of the main temple. Here he is depicted standing with his consorts, Purna and Pushkala. The vigraha of Sastha is of granite, about half a foot high with golden covering. As per Legend the Sastha accompanied Devi in her The golden flagstaff and altar (balipeedam) are in the front of the Sastha shrine.A platform known as ‘Pavazhamallithara’, where the deity is believed to have made her first appearance, is on the south of the main temple. Siva shrine is on the south-west. Nearby is the images of Nagas and yakshi can be seen.
As per another Legend the presence of Divinity here was worshipped by BHOGACHARYA. The deity which is swayambhoo in latrite called Rudraksha Sila was worshipped by divine souls like Adisankaracharya, Vilwamangalam Swamiyar, Kakkasseri Bhattathiri and Chemmangattu Bhattathiri. The temple is situated in hilly region surrounded on all sides by undulating beauty, rich with its green turf, golden farms and provides deep spritiual solace to the entire devotees. Sree Mookambika Saraswathy is also believed as present in the temple in the morning. That is why Mookambika Temple at kollur opens only after the Goddess Saraswathy returns to there late in the morning.
On the eastern side of the temple pond stands the Kizhukkavu temple. The one-foot granite idol of Bhadrakali facing westward is said to have discovered by Vilvamangalam Swamigal, a saint associated with this shrine. It is said that Vilvamangalam had retrieved the idol from the tank which is in front of the shrine. It is believed that worshipping bhadrakali here will exorcise evil influences, psychological ailments, evil spirits etc from devotees.
There is a paala tree on the northeastern side of the kizhukkavu shrine, which is covered with long iron nails hammered on by haunted victims with their foreheads. The practice of driving an iron nail into this paala indicates that the spirit is permanently made immobile. The famous pooja Valiya Guruthy, which means great sacrifice, is performed in kizhukkavu on every night at about 8.45 p.m by the chief priest. Guruthy is a solution prepared out of turmeric and limewater which looks like blood.. It is believed that being present here during this pooja on Fridays permanently cures women suffering from mental abnormalities like schizophrenia.
“MAKOM Thozhal” (worship on the Makom day) is the most important festival of the temple which is celebrated in the month of Kumbham. (Feb / March). The temple timings are : 4 am to 12 noon and 4pm to 8.45 pm. Contact phone number : 0484 271 1032. To return to Index of Contents, Click Here. Otherwise Continue
19.3 Dakshina Mookambika Temple North Paravur
Dakshina Mookambika Temple North Paravur, Main, Post Office Road, Kacheripady, Kerala 683513 Dakshina Mookambika Temple is a famous Goddess Saraswati
temple, located in NorthParavur, Kerala at a distance of 28 kms from Ernakulam. The temple is famous for ezhuthiniruthu – initiating children into the world of letters – on Vijayadasami day.
The temple is revered the same importance as the Mookambika Temple in Kollur, Karnataka. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple is in the midst of a beautiful lotus pool. The presiding deity is worshiped as Goddess Bala Parameswari, the daughter of Lalitha Parameswari. Dakshina Mookambika Temple was constructed by Paravur Thampuran, a great devotee of Mookambika Devi, around 500 years ago.
As per the legend, Thampuran (ruler) of Paravur was a great devotee of Goddess Mookambika. He used to visit the Kollur temple in Mangalore every year to pay homage to the goddess. When he became old, his health worsened and he could no longer undertake the long journey to Kollur. The goddess appeared to the sad devotee in a dream and ordered him to build her idol near his palace so that he can have daily darshan of her. Thampuran followed her instructions, built a temple at Paravur and installed the Goddess.
The presiding deity in this temple is Saraswati and the temple has separate shrines for Lord Ganeshs,Subhramanya, Maha Vishnu, Hanuman and Veerabhadra. A shrine dedicated to Yakshi can be seen on the southwest corner. The sanctum sanctorum is in the midst of a lotus pool. The temple earlier belonged to Paravur Swaroopam.
One of the uniqueness of the temple is the daily Kashaya Nivedyam during the Atthazha Pooja (at 7.30 pm). Kashayam in Ayurveda is water decoction or water extract of a single herb or group of herbs. Sixteen different types of herbs are used to prepare the Kashayam Naivedyam in Dakshina Mookambika Temple. This is offered to the deity during Athazha Puja (evening puja).
The nivedya (also known as Mookambika Kashayam) is prepared with herbs in the traditional manner and is considered as a sacred medicine to enhance wisdom. It is believed that having this Kashayam will improve memory and intelligence of children. Daily poojas are performed by thanthris of Puliyanoor mana in Tripunithura
The famous Navaratri festival is celebrated here with great fervor. Thousands of people participate in the Navaratri music festival. On Durgashtami, books are arranged before the image of Goddess Saraswathy and on Vijayadashami morning, Ezhuthinirithu or Vidyāraṃbhaṃ ceremony takes place at a special mandapam which goes from 4 am to 11 am. Thousands of little children are initiated into the world of letters by making them write the word harisree on rice, their tongues or sand with a golden ring.
Apart from the Navratri festival, the “ten-day annual festival” is celebrated in the month of Makaram (January–February). The music festival and Vidyāraṃbhaṃ ceremony are the main features of this festival. FthathThe temple timings are : from 5 AM to 11 AM. Evening poojas are from 5 PM to 7.30 PM. Contact for darshan, Poojas : +91 9387045353.
20. Dharma Sastha temples
Details of Parashurama pradishta Dharma Sastha temples near Ernakulam : Sri Dharma Shastha Temple,Keezhoor, PSDT 105 and Kodamkulangara Sree Dharma Shastha Temple, PSDT 45 and also Thamaramkulangara Sree Dharmasastha Temple
20.1 Sri Dharma Shastha Temple,Keezhoor, PSDT 105
Sri Dharma Shastha Temple, Thalayolaparambu Puthuveli Road, Keezhoor, Kerala 686605 PSDT 105 Sri Dharma Shastha Temple is located at Keezhoor, Kerala at a distance of 35 kms from Ernakulam. It is a Parashurama Dharma Shastha Temple PSDT 105. 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 .
Keezhoor Dharma Shastha Temple is compact and small in size.Not much history is available regarding the temple.The temple timings are : 5.30-10.30am, 5.30 -7.30 pm . Contact for darshan and pooja: Sajith Nambudri 9562170950
Keezhoor Bhagavathy Temple,is famous and is located nearby. One must have darshan of both temples.
20.2 Thamaramkulangara Sree Dharmasastha Temple
Thamaramkulangara Sree Dharmasastha Temple, Thamaramkulangara Road, Vadakkekotta, Kottakakom, Thrippunithura, Kochi, Kerala 682301 Thamaramkulangara Sree Dharmasastha Temple is located in Thamaramkulangara, Thrippunithura, Kochi, Kerala at a distance of 8 kms from Ernakulam.
Devotees consider this temple as an extension of the famous Sastha Temple at Chamravattom (Malappuram District). According to anecdotes Lord Sastha of Chamravattom followed one of his Priests from Morakkala Mana who had shifted to Tripunithura. Lord Sastha assumed the form of a lizard and came with the priest comfortably by sitting on his traditional umbrella made up of palm leaves.
Thamaramkulangara Sree Dharmasastha is considered as the incarnation of Lord Danwanthari and this is the only one temple in Tripunithura with Dharmasastha as main deity. Besides Dharmasastha devotees also worship Lord Ganesha and Bhadrakali along with Nagaraja and Brahmasrakshas.
There is a huge banyan tree in front of the temple which receives you with a pleasing breeze created by its shivering silvery leaves. There is a clean well maintained fresh water pond which spread over more than one third of the total area of the temple precinct. A Nadappura with a traditional flag post adds the beauty of the temple structure.
Though the temple is owned by Uranma Devaswom Board, day to day affairs are managed by THAMARAMKULANGARA AYYAPPA SEVA SAMITHY (TASS), a voluntary organization led by people living nearby the temple. Ayyappa Seva Samithy is trying their level best to popularise a temple culture by organising frequent cultural eves like Dance, Bhajan Sandhya, Chakkyar Koothu, Music Concerts, Temple Art Forms etc within the holy temple precincts.
Makaravilakku, the annual festival of this temple, bears a unique status. It occurs in January. As per the Malayalam era, the first day of the Makaram Month is celebrated as the Makaravilakku in the temple.
Festivals : Dwaja Prathishta Dinam is the anniversary of the erection of the Holy Flag Post (Kodimaram) in the temple. It is celebrated every year on Meenam 14th as per Malayalam calendar. Painguni Uthram is the birthday of Lord Sree Dharmasastha. Uthram star in the month of Meenam, as per Malayalam era is celebrated as Painguni Uthram.Vishu is celebrated on the first day of Medam as per Malayalam Calendar.
At present Brahmasri. Sreejith Narayanan performs the rituals (Melsanthi). Chief Priest (Thanthri) of the temple is Brahmasri Puliyannur Rahul Narayanan Nambuthirippad. Contact for Poojas : Krishna Nathan:+91 99955 44495 ; Temple timings are : 5am to 10 am; 5-8 pm;
Near By Temples 1) Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple :The town Tripunithura got its name derived from the name of Lord Sree Poornathrayeesa. The beautiful architecture of the temple itself is its identity. It is here that we can see the longest Holy Flag Post (Kodimaram) among the temples. 2) Chakkamkulangara Siva Temple -The uniqueness of this temple is that its here the two temples, Siva Temple and the Navagraha temple, is situated in the same compound. Its the belief that worshipping Siva and Saneeswara on saturday will put an end to all worries of the devotees and lots of people are coming to the temple on saturday for the same. 3) Aadampillikkaavu Bhagavathi Temple Its the nearest temple to Thamaramkulangara. 4) Thevarakkaavu Bhagavathi Temple -The two day long annual festival of this temple is celebrated in the month of Makaram as per Malayalam era with cultural programmes. 5) Pallipparambukkaavu Bhagavathi Temple-The annual festival of this temple is celebrated as “Thaalapoli” on 31st of December every year. The main attraction in the festival is the “Koottavedi” (Fireworks) which will be consisted of about 5000 Kathinas. On all Fridays Bhajana is Performed in the temple. 6) Chottanikkara Bhagavathi Temple -about 5km away from Thamaramkulangara. The diety known as Rajarajeswari (Adiparasakthi) is worshipped here in three forms, viz Saraswathy in the morning, Lakshmi at noon and Durga in the evening. There is an Idol of Mahavishnu on the same pedestal,
20.3 Kodamkulangara Sree Dharma Shastha Temple, PSDT 45
Kodamkulangara Sree Dharma Shastha Temple,X85V+F4W, Eroor Rd, Kodamkulangara, Thrippunithura, Kochi, Kerala 682306 PSDT 45 Kodamkulangara Sree Dharma Shastha Temple, is located in, Kodamkulangara, Thrippunithura, Kochi, Kerala at a distance of 8 kms from Ernakulam. It is a Parashurama prathishta Dharma Shastha Temple PSDT 45. 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 small but beautiful Kerala style traditional temple observes all the important rituals and festivals associated with Sastha temple. Thrikarthika is another important festival here.Other deities in the temple include Sree Ganapthy and Sree Yogeeswaran.
The annual festival in the temple is held in Dhanu Masam end and coincides with the Makaravilakku festival. The annual festival is noted for various unique rituals and pujas. Procession, arrival of kolams, temple art forms and temple music are part of the 5-day annual festival.
Contact for darshan, Poojas : Kishore 6282151159 ; +91 94954 25518. To return to Index of Contents, Click Here.
Kshethradanam 