Kodungallur Temple:
Kodungallur Temple is one of India’s oldest temples and has a long and mysterious history that dates back to ancient times. Its legends, architecture, and culture are fascinating and interesting, making it a must-visit for those looking to explore India’s rich heritage. In this guide, we’ll take an in-depth look into the temple’s history, architecture, legends, rituals, and more!
Understand the Legend and History of Kodungallur Temple
The legend of Kodungallur Temple is linked to the powerful demon king, Tarakasura. According to Hindu legends, Tarakasura was granted a boon by Lord Shiva that he cannot be killed by anyone except for the son of Shiva himself. In order to protect him from being slain, Tarakasura created an enclosure around him using his immense strength and power. His only vulnerability lay in the fact that cracks in this enclosure could be used against him. To counter this vulnerability and protect Tarakasura, a temple was built at Kodungallur with an entrance which could not be opened without first reciting certain mantras and performing ritualistic dances.
The temple of Kodungallur is more than just a religious and mythical site, however. Founded in the 11th Century by King Cheraman Perumal, this temple has been renowned for its beauty and spiritual significance for centuries. This temple has served as a place of pilgrimage for thousands of devotees over the years and still continues to be an important part of Hindu worship. Throughout its history, various renovations have been made to the temple, adding numerous intricate paintings and carvings based on Hindu mythology as well as sculptures of various gods and goddesses. Today, Kodungallur Temple is a much cherished site of historic and cultural significance in India, filled with stories that evoke awe, reverence and inspiration in all who visit it.
Explore the Spectacular Architecture of Kodungallur Temple
The temple complex of Kodungallur Temple is located atop a hillock and is surrounded by an outer wall with seven gates. Inside the complex are several intricate buildings constructed in traditional Dravidian architecture with imposing towers, high gopurams, awe-inspiring mandapas, stone sculptures and decorative carvings. Its main tower stands tall at 53 metres and is one of the tallest structures in Kerala. The main sanctum of the temple houses an intricately carved idol of Bhadrakali that is more than 1200 years old. There are also shrines dedicated to different gods and goddesses within the temple complex.
The temple itself is renowned for its grand festivals, the most famous of which is the Bharani Mahotsavam that takes place during March/April. During this period, huge chariots are used to carry idols of Bhadra and Bhagavati around the city in a captivating procession. Kodungallur Temple also houses two grand halls, one for ritual performances and another for serving as a place of rest for pilgrims. Visitors can take part in traditional ceremonies like Mahabali Homam, Arayal Homam and Ayudh Homam among others. With its spectacular architecture and enthralling rituals, Kodungallur Temple attracts an estimated three lakh visitors from across India each year.
Learn about the Culture and Traditions Behind Kodungallur Temple
Kodungallur Temple is a great source of culture and tradition in India. Its culture has left an indelible imprint upon Kerala society. Through its legends, carvings, rituals and offerings, visitors have a unique opportunity to learn about the history of Kodungallur. Additionally, the temple offers many traditional activities such as processions, music performances, arathi ceremonies and more. All of these activities provide an immersive experience that transports guests back to Kerala’s ancient times
Kodungallur Temple also serves as a reminder of Hindu philosophy and ancient traditions. During religious festivals like Onam, Navratri and Thiruvonam, visitors can witness many traditional rituals based on the ancient Vedantic ideas underpinning Kerala’s culture. From witnessing grand processions to participating in traditional arati ceremonies, visitors get the chance to connect with their cultural heritage. In addition, visitors can purchase pooja items from local stores near the temple such as Kumkum, oil lamps, garland ornaments and more. All these activities give visitors an unforgettable experience that helps them to further understand India’s culture and ways of life.
Discover the Rich Artistic Heritage of Kodungallur Temple
Kodungallur Temple is a treasured landmark of India’s ancient history. Interestingly, the temple was not only a significant religious centre but also a hub of art and culture. From intricate carvings along the walls to grand processions with music performances, visitors have an opportunity to explore its artistic heritage. Moreover, the temple is known for its captivating sculptures that depict various scenes from Hindu mythology. Additionally, stories about the temple are often preserved in folklore and continue to be passed down from generation to generation.
With its grand rituals, elaborate processions and traditional festivities, Kodungallur temple is a popular tourist attraction in Kerala. From ancient sculptures to modern art forms such as dance and music, the temple invites visitors from all across India. In addition, it also serves as an important mandapam for performing rites like weddings and other religious functions. Visitors get to experience unique cultural expressions of Hinduism during these events. Needless to say, this temple showcases why Indian heritage has been prized by many cultures throughout history.
Uncover the Flora and Fauna Surrounding Kodungallur Temple
The surroundings of the Kodungallur Temple are teeming with life. You can discover a myriad of flora and fauna like vibrant bougainvillaea, towering coconut trees, chirping birds, rustling leaves and an abundance of butterflies fluttering around. Moreover, adjacent to the temple lies Connu River which further adds to the charm of the spot. The amazing views around the temple makes it a favourite amongst nature photographers who come here to capture its beauty.
The area around the Kodungallur Temple is home to a number of species of birds, including red-whiskered bulbuls, spotted owlets, parakeets, magpie robins and munias. You can also spot other creatures such as monitor lizards lounging in the sun and monkeys playing around in the trees. When taking a walk to explore the nearby riverbank and greenery you will be able to catch sight of insects like fireflies, butterflies and dragonflies that create a captivating spectacle with their iridescent wings. The landscape is further enriched by mighty coconut palms swaying in the wind that add some rustic charm to your experience.
Kodungallur Bharani festival
The Kodungallur Bharani festival is an annual celebration honouring the goddess Bhadrakali of the Kodungallur Kurumba Bhagavathy temple. It takes place during the Bharani days of the Malayalam calendar months of Kumbham and Meenam. Generally speaking, this time frame corresponds to the Roman calendar months of March and April. This celebration usually involves singing defamatory ballads (Bharanippattu), sacrificing roosters (Kozhikkallu moodal), dancing oracles (Kaavu theendal), lighting the customary lamp (Revathi vilakku), and smearing the goddess’ picture with sandalwood paste.
Rituals:
Kozhikkallu moodal
In order to perform this, a rooster must be sacrificed over a red silk scarf that has been placed around the stones that surround the statue. This ritual represents the battle between the goddess and her adversary Daarika. The stones are presently only covered in a red silk cloth because this ceremony hasn’t been practised since 1977.
Kaavu theendal
When the Kodungallur king raises the crimson ceremonial parasol, Kaavu Theendal officially begins. Following that, the oracles wander around the temple in a trance while holding sickles or bamboo sticks in their hands. Additionally, they perform vile ballads that defame the goddess. Additionally, they “pollute” the temple by throwing coconuts and turmeric powder onto the roof and within passageways. The temple shutters for a week following this event for a “purification” ceremony.
kodungallur temple online vazhipadu list:
THANEERAMRUTHAM
PULINJAMRUTHAM
CHATHUSATHAM
SARKKARA PANTHEERUNAZHI
VELLA PANTHEERUNAZHI
EDICHIPIZHINJU PAYASAM
kodungallur temple website: https://kodungallursreekurumbabhagavathytemple.org/
kodungallur temple phone number: 0480-2-803061
kodungallur temple Address:
Thekkenada Rd, near aswathy hotel,
Pettumma, Kodungallur, Kerala 680664
Kodungallur Temple Photos:
