Thali Sree Mahadeva Temple, Mankavu, Kozhikkode

http://kozhikkodethalimahadevatemple.in/

The Thali Sree Mahadeva Temple under the Trusteeship of the Zamorin of Calicut, is situated in the heart of the Kozhikode Town, about three kilometers east of the Railway Station .This temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a treasure house of historical memorabilia.

The founding and prosperity of Kozhikode town is closely linked with the benevolence of this ancient temple. It is assumed, the Jyothirlingam in the sanctum – Sanctorum of the Temple was installed towards the end of Dwaparayuga by Sri. Parasurama, who was responsible for the creation of Kerala. The deity here is worshipped in the form of of Umamaheswara. Though this divine power existed from time immemorial, the attention of the citizens of Kozhikode was (bestowed on the temple) only by about 1500 years ago. It reached its zenith during the rule of the Zamorins, who had the prestigious title Sailabdheswara (The lord of the mountain and the sea).

Temple Architecture:

The platform facing the sanctum-sanctorum, the four walls skirting the sanctum-sanctorum with the lighted lamps on all the four sides, Dwajastambam, Anakottil (flag-staff platform for elephants) the gopurams (large entrance gate), Deepasthambhum (pillars of lighting) and large outer walls are all there in the grand temple. Tali Ganapathy, Thevarathil Ganapathy, Thrumandhakunnu Bhagavathy, are all the additional deities located in the inner walls of the temple. Outside the inner wall, but within the temple premises are Lord Ayyappa in the south west. Thevarathil Bhagavathy just behind Lord Ayyappa and Naga in the west, facing in the eastern direction. In the north eastern side, just outside the Siva Temple premises, but inside the four wall of the temple, there is a separate Vishnu temple with a Dwajastambam of its own. Besides there is a small temple dedicated to Narasimha Moorthy in the southern side of the Vishnu Temple. Inside the four walls of the Sreekrishna Temple, there is also the presence of Sreevalayanad Bhagavati. So with its special architectural beauty and the presence of several Gods and Goddesses in the premises, this great temple has special significance of its own. This temple also got a special place in the cultural history of Kerala. It was here that Revathi Pattathanam, a sort of seminar on  Bharatha Meemamsa, Prabhakara Meemamsa, Vedanta Meemamsa and vyakarana were conducted.

History:

Thalikkunu Shiva Temple is one of the oldest temples of Malabar. This temple has been attacked many times. Currently the Temple is under His Highness Zamorin of Calicut.Thali, Thiruvannur, Varackal, Puthur, Govindapuram etc. are other important temples in the town of Kozhikode as well as those nearby were completely destroyed as a result of Tipu's military operations. Some of them were reconstructed by the Zamorin after he returned following the defeat of Tipu Sultan in Sreerangapatanam and the Treaty of 1792.

REVATHI PATTATHANAM:

The 'Pattathanam' a festival aimed at the social-cultural enrichment of the milieu is a symbol of aristocracy surrendering to 'Divinity'. As such, it is held at the Siva temple, Thali and not in the regal glory of the Zamorins palace. Scholars were invited from the all corners of the country and were given chances to show their skills. The best among them was awarded with the title and this ceremony is known as the 'Pattathanam'.

The week-long festival is used to be held annually on the 'Revathy' day of the month of 'Thulam' (October – November), on this days the Brahmin community were mainly two-via, Cheviyannur and Kothamangalam. They took their palaces on the north and south part of the passage that lead to the Sanctum-Sanctorum of the Tali temple. The Zamorins Raja was called 'Saraswatha Nidhi' by these scholastic poets. In turn the scholastic union was known as the 'Pathinettarakavi' (18 poets and a half poet) of these the Payyur Bhattathiris – father and son, Uddhanda Shastri, Kakkasseri Bhattathiri famous and even more the 'half poet' Punam Namboodiri known so because he wrote in Malayalam. That was the golden era of the Pattathanam.

Now, on the 'Revathy' day of the month of 'Thulam' (October – November) every year, Udayasthamana Poojas conducted Lord Siva and Krishna, A scholar nominated by the Kudalloor Namboodiripad is felicitated, "Murajapa" – recitation of three Vedas is also held. A cultural seminar is held in connection with the auspicious occasion at the Zamorins College School, Tali (now The Zamorins HSS). At the closing ceremony, the 'Krishnageethi' award for the best poet and an award for temple artist are given away. 

Thrikkavu Sri Durga Bhagavathy Temple, Ponnani, Malappuram

http://ponnanitrikkavu.in/

Thrikkavu Sri Durga Bhagavathy Temple is a Goddess Durga temple located in Ponani in Malappuram district, Kerala.This centuries old ancient temple is one of the 108 Durga temples in Kerala established by Lord Parasurama.The name Thrikkavu is originated from " Thrikkani Kaadu”.

The Devi is here in her Chathurbhaahu (four arms) form with Chakra (disc), Sankha (conch), Varada (in a boon-conferring pose) and katibadha (arm rest in the hip). The idol faces eastward.The deity is decorated with sandal paste, ornaments and garlands . Thrikkavu Bhagavathy is the one who grants all wishes which is referred to as “Sarvabeeshtapradhayini” . Durga and Saraswati are the two different forms in which she is worshipped. The upa devathas here include for Mahaganapathi, Sidhi Vinayakan, Hanuman, Sasthavu and Brahma Rakshass. There is also a Sreerama temple.Kshetrakkulam or Temple pond has a Moola Ganapathy temple nearby along with Naga Yakshi, Naga Raja and Naga Pratishtas.

Legend:

The stories about the origin of the temple date back to the period of Lord Parasurama’s incarnation.When he reclaimed the land of Kerala,he threw his “Sruvam” in the ocean.Then he consecrated 108 Durga Temples along the cost land with equal number of Siva Temples along the high land for the security of the people,along with the fauna and flora of Kerala.The present old generation recites The Sthothra about Durgalayas which appears to have omitted thrikkavu.Similarly ,many sthothras being passed through ears from generation to generation are affected.

In the campus,to the north of the Durga temple,there is a Lord Krishna temple.It is said to be Sree Ram temple built by a Brahmin devotee who had trade relation with Bombay market.As roads and rails were uncommon those days,he depended on the sea route for this journeys. One day while he was returning back form Bombay, his vessel was caught in a sudden violent wind. He prayed to Lord Sree Rama to save him and others present in the vessel,promising to build a temple for Sree Rama when he reaches safe in Ponnani.Eventually the sea became calm.As per his his promise,he built a temple with the main deity facing west towards the sea and a small idol for his beloved Bhaktha Sree Hanuman facing the east. It was a full fledged temple which has many proofs. The basement of the outer structure, chuttambalam is still safe .

The soldiers of Tipu Sulthan of Mysore during his war campaign in Malabar damaged the Durga idol,another one was re installed in 1980.

‘Chira’ is a big tank at the front of the temple.Due to severe drought and famine, one summer, the life in Ponnani was made miserable. People had no food, no clean water . The Zamorin at Kozhikode was informed about the situation by a deputation of some gentlemen from Ponnani He suggested the people to dig a big tank in front of the temple,and told that those who participated in this campaign will be given free meals in the form of Kanji (Gruel) and Puzhukku (Curry). Zamorin supplied the rice for free of charge from Kozhikode. The people of Ponnani actively participated in it.Two moths later, a big pond was dug. But it had some muddy water in the middle.People were engaged in pouring out this water with the help of some country made pots. It was then Pakanar,one of twelve great persons born of a Parayi scheduled cast woman, suddenly appeared there.The workers were even irritated. They were using wrong method.Annoyed people wanted Pakanar to demonstrate the way how it could be done. Pakanar stepped into the pond, took a handful of water and threw it upwards. That water disappeared and suddenly water began to flow into the tank from all sides of the pond.The tank was filled with crystal clear water.Since then the tank has never gone dry.

Significance:

Devotees visit this temple to seek fulfillment of the following:-

• Trouble-free marital life
• Removal of physical ailments 
• Cure from mental Problems 
• for Fearless disposition

Festivals:

The main festival is Navarathri Mahotsavam which attracts large number of devotees. Vidyarambham (beginning of formal education)is conducted on the Vijayadasami day of Navarathri utsavam. Thousands of children throng this temple on that day. The Vrishchicka Mandala mahotsavam (festival) is celebrated during the entire period of mandalam season

Pookulangara Bhagavathy Temple, Kunissery, Palakkad

  Please visit http://pookulangarabhagavathy.in/ for online booking of poojas.

The ancient and famous Pookulangara Bhagavathy temple is located in the beautiful village of Kunissery,near Alathur in Palakkad district. This temple is surrounded by a vast theertha pond, a huge banyan tree and lush paddy fields which adds to its sculptural beauty and grace.  The three desams of Kunissery, namely Kizhakkethara, Thekkethara and Vadakkethara combinely  carry out the management and functioning of this temple.

The main idol is of Goddess Bhagavathi in the sankalpa of Goddess Durga in a calm demeanor. Saptamatrukkal, Ganapati, Veerabhadran, Subramanya and Ayyapa are other idols in the temple along with Bhairavan and Brahmarakshas. The darusilpa (wooden) idol is in sitting posture with eight arms, holding conch, chakra, mace, lotus, trident, bow, arrow and rope in each.

Pookulangara Bhagavathy Temple structure includes sreekovil with mukha mandapam, sub-shrines, namaskara mandapam, chuttambalam with agramandapam. Navagrahas are carved on the ceiling of the agramandapam.

Legend:

According to the legends, during the military invasions of Zamorin of Calicut, many places of Palakkad came to be under his rule. While the Zamorin’s army came to capture kunissery desam, all the men folk of kunissry courageously fought with them, but succumbed to death. Fearing disgrace, the womenfolk took refuge in Pookkulangara bhagavathy’s abode and prayed to Her for saving them. The benevolent Goddess heard their prayers and advised them to jump into the warfront with brooms and winnows in hand. When they ran to fight the Zamorin’s army, they saw Goddess Durga in her fierce form in each woman, and retreated quickly. On hearing this incident, the Zamorin Raja consulted his astrologers, and He was informed that the Raja has earned the wrath of Kunissery Bhagavathy for his wrong deeds. The King soon reached the abode of Pookkulangara Bhagavathy and prayed for forgiveness. The Zamorin also bestowed many of his Kingly symbols to the Goddess and became an ardent devotee of Her. The King also arranged for a group of brave men folk from his kingdom to come and stay at this place for ensuring the safety of women.

These men came to live at Kunissry and they asked the King to grant them permission to visit the Mamankam festival each year. Then the King ordered to hold a Kummatti Mamankam festival in Pookkulangara Bhagavathi’s abode on her Birthday each year with grandeur and the King himself presided the festival for many years.

Festivals:

The Kummatti festival started by Zamorin is the biggest annual festival held at the temple. It is held in Punartham star of Meenam month (march/ april) and is attended by devotees even from far away places.

The Valiya Aarattu  is held in every 12 years and is a grand festival, where Pookkulangara Bhagavathy sets out to bow down to Sree Thrippallavoor Mahadevan . The next Valiyarattu is scheduled in 2023.

offerings:


The Swayamvara Pushpanjali and Santhanagopala pooja are very famous poojas at this temple.

Madayikkavu (Thiruvarkkadu) Bhagavathy temple, Pazhayangadi, Kannur

http://madayithiruvarkkadubhagavathytemple.in/

Madayi kavu or Thiruvarkadu Bhagavathi Temple, is the mother temple of all Bhadrakali shrines of North Kerala. The deity is the fierce form of Bhadrakali. The Bhagavathy is addressed by tantrics in the vicinity as Tiruvarkkad Achchi due to this. Madayi Kavu is believed to be the oldest one built in Kerala. 

The temple, now under the administration of Devaswom Board, was originally under the control of the Kolathiri kings. The temple, situated in Madayi near Payangadi, is an important site of worship in the Kannur District and Kerala region.‘Madayikavu Amma’, Goddess who is known for her blessings on devotees is worshipped as Mother Kali and it is a belief that any devotee who worship this Goddess with faith will be free from the black magic’s and witchcrafts of the enemies.

The idol of the goddess is made of Concentrated Jaggery (Kadu Sarkara) and so the Abhisheka(Ritual bath) is given to a metal idol , sanctified in the temple. The Goddess has an extremely fierce look with four hands and face resembling the fire at deluge. 

As soon as you enter the temple you would see a Shiva temple , There over a Peeta covered with silk , a sword called Nandakam representing the Bhagawathi is kept.The main temple of Bhagawathi which is a few yards south of the Shiva temple faces the west. Towards the left of her temple the idols of the Saptha Mathrukas( The seven mothers) who accompanied her in the war with Dharuka can be seen. 

In the front in a an enclosure the metal idol is consecrated . The Brahmin priests at the temple, known as Podavar Brahmins, belong to a particular sect associated with Kali worship, and are not barred from consumption of meat. A particular aspect of the temple is Kozhi Kalasham, which is the sacrifice of poultry for the goddess which is held in high regard. The temple was spared from destruction by Tipu Sultan (whose followers destroyed the nearby Vadukunnu Temple). The Madayi Kavu temple was saved from destruction by a Nair warrior, Vengayil Chathukutty Nayanar, who received the title of Nayanar from the temple authorities for his bravery (Sthanaperu).

As per the history the temple existed from ancient time and there are two different stories about  the existence of the deity.

Legend:

In one of the stories, Madayikavu Amma who is in the form of Bhadrakali originally was existing in Shiva Kshethara Thialiparambha Rajarajeshwara temple. But, as she was non- vegetarian and could not continue to exist at  Thiliparambha Rajarajeshwara temple, she ordered the then King of     that region to construct a separate temple in her name. Then ‘Madayikavu’ temple came into existence as per the deity’s wish.

In another ancient story it is believed the people of  Madayi were troubled by a demon named ‘Dharaka’ and Madayikavu Amma in the form of Kali killed him and requested Lord Shiva to give a place on earth where people can worship her always. Lord Shiva ordered his disciple   Parashuram and as per his orders Parashuram hit the ground with his sword and the sea which made way for a hill was transformed into a “Punya   Kshethara’ of mother Kali very popularly known as Madayi Kavu Amma or Thiruvar Kadu Bhagavathi.

Festival:

Though initially there were four annual festivals in the temple, as of now the major festivals which are celebrated are "Pooram" in the month of Meenam(March-April) and "Kalasam" in the month of Medam. The pooram festival is celebrated for seven days and the Kalasam festival only lasts for a few hours. It is believed that all annual festivals of Northern Kerala end for the year with the celebration of Kalasam at this temple.

The Kalasa Uthsavam was so being called as Perum Kaliyattam(Big play of Kali) or Kalioyattam is observed in the festival . The main rituals are in the afternoon when eight people who dress up as the forms of Goddesses like Kalariyil Bhagawathi, Chuzhali Bhagawathi , Someswari, Padi Kutthi along with the main form of goddess “Veera Chamundi’. These Goddess forms go round the Kalasa(Sacred pot) and offer worship three times to it . Then there is a sport called Kalasa Thallu( The physical fight of the Kalasa , done with bare hands.)

Another important ritual in this temple is a fishing in a near by river which is called “Kavu Pidi”( catch of the temple). The first of month of Edavam (May-june) and the previous day of the Kalasam are considered more propitious for Kavu Pidi. People believe that fishes caught are the Prasada ( ritual gifts) of the Goddess and buy them at huge cost..

The temple now has a website http://madayithiruvarkkadubhagavathytemple.in/ where it offers online puja booking for its devotees spread across the world. Website also has a wealth of information about the temple.

Sree Chamravattam Ayyappa Temple, Tirur, Malappuram

The temple now has a website (http://www.chamravattamayyappatemple.in) where it offers online puja booking for its devotees spread across the world. Website also has a wealth of information about the temple.

About:

This is a famous Sastha temple which is about 12-15 km from Thirur , in Malabar on the shores of Bharatha Puzha(Nila river) The temple can also be reached by a ferry from Ponnani village . What makes this temple so beautiful is the mighty river Bharathapuzha that flows behind this shrine and the vast expanses of paddy fields indicating the rich agrarian culture. The temple is believed to have been constructed by Perumthachan, a master craftsman and a legendary sculptor. 

Sastha was the son of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu's incarnation Mohini, and has two wives. These wives are called Poorna and Pushkala in some parts and Prabha and Sathyaka in other parts. Lord Ayyappa who is an incarnation of Sastha was the prince of Pandalam and remained a bramachari.

In Chamravattom temple the God is consecrated at the level of the river though the temple is in slightly higher grounds. During rainy season , the flood water enters the temple and sub merges the idol. There are several stories which describe the power of this God ,poularly called as Chamravattathappan. People believe that worshipping God Sastha in Chamravattom on Saturdays would help them get rid of the evil effects of the bad times caused by the planet Saturn.It is assumed that the Thamarakulangara Sastha temple near Tripunithura is an extension of this temple.

Legend:

It is one of the ancient Sastha temples situated at a small island of river Bharathapuzha at Chamravattom. Actual year of constructruction of the temple is unknown. It is said that thousands of years ago, a sage called ‘sambaran’ came to this place, saw the calm, beautiful island near the bank of bharathapuzha. He thought that it is the best place for his meditation. At the end of his long meditation, he saw a bright light in front of him. He thought that ‘Lord Vishnu’ was going to appear before him. He meditated lord Vishnu. But the light was still there. Then he thought that it was the presence of lord siva. The light didn’t disappear. Then he thought of lord ganesha, lord subrahmanya, goddess durga like that. At last he recognized the presence of lord sastha with his wife prabha and son sathyaka. Then sastha light disappeared.. he approached the karanavar of kuttisseri mana on the bank of bharathappuhzha. Sambara explained his rare experiences and requested him to construct a templeof the island. He also advised the Poojavidhies to him and left place. The place where  Sage Sambara saw vettom is formerly known as sambaravettom then transformed to chamravattom.

Deities:

Except sastha,The presence of lord Vishnu, lord ganapathy, lord siva, goddess prabha, goddess durga, lord sathyaka is there in the main sanctum sanatorium. Besides lord ganapathy, lord sathyakan, goddess durga, goddess bhadrakali and lord siva are installed outside on the south western side of the shrine. poojas for there deities are done along with the ushapooja of sastha everyday.

Festivals:

The main festivals of the temple is during the season of Mandala Kala, especially the last 11 days. ( 1st to 11th of Malayalam month Dhanu ). The temple authorities also arrange free stay and annadanam to the sabarimala pilgrims during this season .There will be a chuttuvilakku during the ezhunnallippu but elephants are not used here. Other important day is Prathishtadinam. It is celebrated on Anizham of the malayam month Makaram. On that day, there will be Navakam.

http://www.chamravattamayyappatemple.in

Sree Kalarivathukkal Bhagavathy Temple, Valapattanam, Kannur

http://www.kalarivathukkalbhagavathytemple.in

Kalarivathukkal Bhagavathy Temple, famous Bhadrakali Shrine located near Valapattanam river, is the family shrine of Chirakkal Royal Family. The deity of the shrine is the fierce form of Bhadrakali. Kalarivathukkal Bhagavathy is considered as the mother of the ancient martial art Kalarippayattu and hence the name.

legend:

The holy shrine is one of the Devi temple triads of the erstwhile Chirakkal Kingdom. The other two being Cherukunnu Annapoornashwari Temple and Tiruvarkadu Bhagavathy Temple(Madayi kavu). The mythology says that Annapoornashwari came from Kasi to Chirakkal in a boat along with Kalarivatukkalamma and Madayikkavilamma who were her mates; to see the Krishna Temple and never returned. The Chirakkal Kings were the successors of Kolathiris' who in-turn was the direct descendants of the Mooshika kings. Mooshika of North and Ay of South were the oldest dynasties of Kerala. The Ay dynasty eventually became extinct but the Mooshika was able to sustain. The later name of Mooshika King was Kolathirippad after the amalgamation of Aryan culture to the local one by Brahmins. The Kolathiris' relocated their capital from Ezhimala to Chirakkal near Valapattanam river. The temple was once owned by Vadakke illam and was acquired by Chirakkal Kovilakom.

Temple speciality:

The temple is in traditional Kerala architecture style. The temple design is Rurujith Vidhanam(Kaula Shakteya Sampradaya) where in there are shrines of Shiva, Sapta Mathrukkal, Ganapathy, Veerabhadra and Kshetrapalakan(Bhairava) in 4 sanctums. The main deity is facing west. The shrine of Shiva is facing East, Shrine of Sapta Mathrukkal (Maathrushaala) facing North and the Shrine of Kshetrapalaka (Bhairava) facing East. The Maathrushaala has idols of SapthaMathrukkal (Brahmani, Vaishnavi, Shankari, Kaumari, Varahi, Chamundi, Indrani), Veerabhadra and Ganapathi. Every morning after the rites the Sacred Sword is taken to the Mandapam adjacent to the Maathrushaala and taken back in the evening after the rites. The main idol is made of KaduSarkaraYogam so for performing rites and rituals a Archana bimbam of Devi is used for rites and ablutions. The temple is opened throughout the year, in morning there will be Usha Pooja, at noon Pantheeradi Pooja and in evening Shakti Pooja.

Festivals:

Theyyam:

Theyyam is a religious ritualistic art-form conducted in Temples and Kavu in North Malabar. The shrine being the family deity of Kolathiri conducts the last Theyyam commencing the Theyyam period of a year.The huge Thirumudi of Kalarivathukkal Amma's theyyam is the one of the attractions of the festival.

Here are two major festivals are there in the shrine. Pooram festival in March–April for 9 days; starts in Karthika nakshatra and ends in Uthram nakshatra of the Malayalam Calendar month of Meenam. On the 7th day the idol is taken to Shri Siveshwaram Temple on 8th to Kadalai Shri Krishna Temple and on 9th it is taken back along with fireworks. The festival commences by the Kalarippayattu performance. Musical and traditional art performances such as Thayambaka,Poorakkali are performed. In June another festival Kalasham concludes the Theyyam period of a year. The other festivals are Navaratri, Shivarathri, Vishuvilakku, Perum kaliyattam in 10th Idavam and Niraputhari in karkkidakam.

The temple now has a website (http://www.kalarivathukkalbhagavathytemple.in) where it offers online puja booking for its devotees spread across the world. Website also has a wealth of information about the temple.

Sree Manappullikkavu Bhagavathy Temple, Yakkara, Palakkad

http://www.manappullybhagavathydevaswom.com

Manappulli Bhagavathy temple, famous for the grand Vela festival,is located at the heart of Palakkad town in a serene backdrop of a village called Yakkara. This is an aesthetically appealing temple dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy, considered to be Lord Siva’s daughter, Bhadrakaali, born out of the sacred “Jada” or Lord Shiva during Dakshayaga.

Legend:

The temple mythology is that once, Neelan, an Asura was giving lot of disturbances to the people of this area.  People complained about his miseries and menace  to Parasuraman and he advised to take up the matter with Lord Paramasiva.  Paramasiva by incarnation took  the form of Bhadrakali and killed Neelan.  After this, Bhadrakali became to be worshipped as Manappulli Sree Bhadrakali Amman.  This deity is a very powerful deity believed to shower prosperity, to ward off miseries, fullfil all desires, protect from all evils of her true devotees.

Sanctum at Manapullykavu, Yakkara, Palakkad

The temple is situated in a calm and serene place, has a beautiful pond on the south side.  Separate sannadhies are there for Lord Ayyappa, Kala Bairavar on the out side of the main shrine.  Inside the shrine there are sannadhies for Lord Ganesha, Lord Muruga etc.

Sthala Puranas says that this  originally belonged to a famous saintly Kerala Brahmin family Mattapalli Bhadrakali Mana. The Brahmins lived on the banks of rivers and performed Yagas on the river beds and this place was called Yaga-Kara. Thus, this area was known as  Yagakkara and later it took the present name of  Yakkara. The temple is located on the East Yakkara.  It is believed that the deity Bhagavathy Amma was on the West Yakkara and later on shifted to East Yakkara and the Brahmin devotee used to perform his prayers and Pooja to the deity at the kitchen (Madappalli) in his house.  Later on Temple was built there and the temple was known in course of time as Manappallikavu Sree Bhagavathy Amman of Yakkara.

It is believed that the sword used by Mother Bhagavathi to defeat and destroy the demons is still the float tank.  During the Vela festival, an event of Mother Bhagavathi taking out the sword from the Tank called Velichapadu is celebrated.  A devotee possessed with the influence of Mother Bhagavathi dives into the tank, bring the sword and place it in the shrine of Mother for pujas.  Feeding of the devotees also takes place on this day called Vela Oottu.  During this festival, 15 elephants stand in a line with playing of Pancha Vadyam, Pandi and Panjari Melas.  

Significance of Idol:

Mother Manapulli Bhavathi with Her dark complexion is facing north.  She is holding trident, skull, sword and armour in Her four hands.  She is in her best attire wearing jewels.  She has the third eye on the forehead as Lord Shiva and four sharp long teeth.  Those subjected to injustice pray to Her for relief.  It is said that Her long teeth represent four Vedas.

Every day there are three main poojas to the deity.  One can hear the bursting of Vedi (Kathina) at the time of Deeparadhana (aarathi) every day on three occasions.  The sound is heard for about two to three kilometers and every one is mentally reminded of the poojas at the temple as a constant and ever living Force.

The temple processions are conducted generally with about seventeen elephants and the main deity with full flower decoration and ornaments will be taken.  Manapulli vela festival is famous in this temple during which time firework displays, panchavadya performances, Ootam thullal, Kathakali dances, Discourses and various cultural arts are performed.  Nithya Seva to the deity is performed as per stipulated schedule which is displayed near the temple office counter. 

MANAPULLIKAVU VELA:

Manapullikavu Vela is a Festival honouring the deity at Manapullikavu called 'Manapulli Bhagavathy'. The festival is celebrated between last week of February and first week of March based on the Malayalam Calendar year. The celebration starts with 'Kodiyettam' (flag hoisting on a bamboo pole) which declares the 'Vela'(Festival) has started. After the Kodiyettam, a week full of pooja ceremonies and evenings with colourful cultural programmes are organized by the 'Vela Committee' (Festival Committee) which all ends with the grand day 'Manapullikavu Vela'.


 Lots of devotees from various parts of Kerala and other southern states of India come for worshipping Bhagavathy on this auspicious day. The Vela day starts early with poojas to the Bhagavathy continuing with all day poojas. The 'Chaandh Abishekam', one of the important pooja during the day attracts flocks of devotees. 'Vedikettu' (Firework) is also an important attractive element of the festival which is organized in the evening around 9 PM and early morning by 4 AM. The Vela day is declared as Local Holiday which shows the importance of the festival. There are many other festivals celebrated in Palakkad district.

Manapullikavu Vela consists small velas from other desams. Velas from West Yakkara, Vadakkanthara, Vennakkara, Koppam are some of them. These small velas come together to make the final show. Plenty of chariots (bull carts and other motorised vehicles) take part in Manapullykavu Vela.


The temple now has a website (http://www.manappullybhagavathydevaswom.com) where it offers online puja booking for its devotees spread across the world. Website also has a wealth of information about the temple.

Sree Pulickal Naga Yakshi Temple, Kavilpadu, Olavakkod, Palakad

http://www.naagayekshitemple.in/

Pulickal Sankarodath Sree Nagayakshikkavu is a very ancient but less known centre of pilgrimage for the devotees of serpent gods. It is located at Kavilpadu Village near Olavakkode Junction in Palakkad District. This  powerful Nagayakshi Temple is nestled in a forest glade, like most snake temples in Kerala, hence the name "Kavu'. 

NagaYakshi Amma in this Pulickal temple is in "swaymbhu avatar" and has been blessing devotees who have been flocking this place since long. This temple is famous for its representation of Nagas in the Brahmana, Krishna, Kaliya and Agama format. In the main sanctum Sree Naga Yakhi Amma, Sree Naga Raja and Sree SarpaYakshi Amma are worshipped with equal importance. It is believed that the great saint Kashypa,considered as the forefather of serpents, had been at this place for penance and he had attained 'samadhi' by leaving his life energy and spiritual energy onto the serpent idol in the 'machakam' or 'nilavara' of this ancestral home. So Saint Kashyapa is also worshipped as the 'Naga Muthachan' here. Also Naga Chamundi, Naga Kanyaka and Bhadrakali are worshipped with seperate Poojas for each deity.

Origin of the Temple:

Pulickal Tharavadu or ancestral home is a famed Nair Tharavadu. There was a couple in the tharavadu who did not have any child after marriage. Kamakshiamma went to an ashram that was established by Parushurama Guru. With the persistence of the guru, Kamakshiamma started Naga pooja in the ancestral home.Kamakshiamma was an ardent devotee and she started praying to Naga by considering it as her child. Her devotion led to the arrival of Golden Nagam (Suvarnna Nagam).Kamakshiamma was blessed with a daughter in her old age and Kamakshiamma named her as Amminiamma. 

Amminiamma was also an ardent devotee of Snake god and started worshipping Naga yakshi.The worship rituals were reduced after her marriage and she gave birth to daughter named Thankamaniamma.Out of childhood pranks,Thankamaniamma happened to kill a Suvarnna Nagam which had appeared in their home. That incident made the Nagas angry and they cursed the land and home of Pulickal. Thankamaniamma was also not spared and she was cursed with Chithradaran Naga Sapam. Her children had a troubled childhood with lot of illness and other mental and physical troubles and her progenies were cursed with untimely death early in life. After losing her four sons to death, she made a vow that if atleast one boy child was born in the family blessed with a long life, she would dedicate him to the Naga Muthachan of the Machakam as his follower. She also decided to restart the serpent worship rituals in the ancestral home as done by the forefathers.



In the Malayalam month Thulam on Aayilyam day, the snake idol was installed by following the ritualistic practices mentioned by ancestors and Parusurama.There was presence of Lord Garuda on that day and the idol was bathed in the Tharavadu pond and was installed and was done Kalam pattu pooja to please the idol. This temple was henceforth known as Pulickal NagaYakshi temple.After six months in the Malayalam month Edavam on Pournami Day (Full moon),a thirumangalaya pooja was done for the separated Naga couples. From that day onwards the Edavam Pournami day is celebrated as Thriumangalaya Pooja here and Thulam Aayilyam is celebrated as or Valiya Arattu.


Answering the prayers of Thankamaniamma, on 1989, a boy child was born to  her daughter Mallikakshi Nair and her husband Gopalakrishnan Nair of Nenmara Kavungal Tharavadu.The child was born in the Shukhla paksham Sravana month Nagapanchami day. He was named as Manoj and he was later renamed as Unni Ambotti.He started worshipping the serpent gods at a young age and in particular a chitrakuda or 'manputtu" under a tamarind or "puli" tree. Once in a heavy rain, that 'puttu' broke and it revealed a Nagayakshi idol inside. His grandmother had a dream that Unni must worship the swayambhoo idol of Nagayakshi Amma henceforth. Since the idol was found under the "puli" tree, it began to be referred to as the "Pulickal Nagayakshi Amma".Unni completed his deeksha and was entrusted with the powers to serve the Serpent Gods of Pulickal for the rest of his life. Having been adopted into the 'Sarpa Kula', Unni Ambotti was to remain a brhmachari and was considered as the Serpents' own child.

Thus the temple was built here along with two temple ponds and pooja rituals for each deity was fixed according to rituals.


Temple Timings:

Temple will be opened for Darshanam and pooja at 5.30 am morning daily. The temple will be closed at 11:30 am after doing Abishekam, Malarnedhyam Prasanna pooja, Noorum Paalum and Uchapooja. The temple will be opened at 5.30 In evening and will be closed at 7.30 in evening, In these time vilakku theliyikkal only will be taken place.


The various Sarpa Kavu in Pulickal Temple and their meaning:

• Brahmana Sarpa Kavu:

This Sarpa Kavau is meant to protect the asset of the temple or temple nidhi and this is the sacred place of the Suvarnna Nagam.

• Agama Sarpa Kavau or Kashtriya Sarpa Kavu:

This is where the Sarpa idol from various places and various ancestral homes are bought and installed here. The reason is that they will not be in a position to look after the Sarpa Idols.

• Kala Sarpa Kavu Vaishya Sarpa Kavu:

These Nagas are powerful to destroy a man's life and change the destiny of a man and it is with that representation that the idol is installed here.

• Krishna Sarpa Kavau or Shudra Sarpa Kavu:

This Nagas are powerful and they can fly also. These Nagas are usually representing or are meant as temple guardians and the idol is installed in that representation.


Special Poojas for Dosha Nivaranam here:

Sarpa bali:

This pooja is done as a remedy for reducing the sin of killing Sarpa. This pooja is done to please Rahu Graham which is not in favorable position in a person Jathakam. This pooja is done to reduce the pain caused by diseases and reduce diseases and this pooja is also done to get children for couples. This pooja is done on 64 Padmas for  Nagaraja, Nagayakshiamma, SarpaYakshi, Karinagam, Maninagam, AsthaNaga, Nagachamundi, Nagabootham and various other forms of Nagas.

Kalasarpa Homam:

The pooja is done to remove Kalasarpa dosham, physical diseases and ailments, and skin diseases.

Payassambali:

This pooja is done to remove Brahmana Sarpasapam, Earlier life Sapam (munjanma Sapam), Ancestral Sarpa Sapam. The pooja is done for Nagaraja, Nagayakshiamma, 16 Brahmana Sarpa, 16 Kashtriya Sarpa, 16 Vaiysa Sarpa, 16 Shudra Sarpa and Nagabootham and is a tharpana pooja.

Pulluvanpattu (Kalameruthu pattu):

If the ancestral Sarpakavu is destroyed, if the egg destroyed or Sarpa child is killed, if there is any Sarpa dosham in earlier birth, If an tree in Sarpakavu is destroyed there will be physical ailments to family members, mental problems, skin diseases, less family growth in terms of wealth, there will be an increase in childless couples and there will be less mental peace in family.To remove these obstacles the ground in the temple is cleaned Pullavan pattu is done by Pullavan people. The Nagas in the kandar forest is drawn using natural ingredients and then kurthuola, allolla, vettila (methi), palaella is used to place arangu and earthen pot (mankudam), Veena and kaithalam is used to sing praises of Nagas. This ancestral form is also known as Sarpa thullal.The Kalameruthu is removed after 21 days of strong vratham by the komrangal.

Festivals:

• Aayilyam day pooja in the Malayalam month of Kanni (September - October) This day is also the birth day of Nagaraja.The Thekkathalam or the southern side Nilavara will be opened and Nurum Palum will be offered.
• MahaSivaRathri festival in the month of February-March and this would last one full night and this pooja is usually done by Unni Ambotti.
• Every Malayalam Month first day, on Aayilyam day and on Pooyam day offerings will be given to Nagaraja.The Pooyam pooja is usually done by the grandma of this tharavadu. On Aayilyam day grandma will also do Sarpaavahana pooja and Pullavan pattu pooja to please Snake gods and this is done to remove the Snake dosham in a person's life. On Malayalam month first day Unni would do Payasam bali,Nurum plaum and Swaparivaraum pooja.

The temple now has a website (http://www.naagayekshitemple.in/) where it offers online puja booking for its devotees spread across the world. Website also has a wealth of information about the temple.

Sree Mulayankavu Bhagavathy Temple, Kulukkallur,Palakkad

Please visit the temple website below to book pujas and avail more details:

http://www.sreemulayankavubhagavathytemple.in

The Mulayankavu Bhagavathy Temple is dedicated to Sree Bhadrakali and is located near Kulukkallur in Palakkad district. This is a very ancient temple and here devi is consecrated in two bhava, hence called Balabhadrakali too. Mulayankavu Bhagavathi Temple, belonging to the Tharakkal family, is located at Mulayankavu village approx. 20 kms from Pattambi.  This temple is famous all over South India for grand colourful "kala vela" procession  during the Pooram festival.

Significance:

The speciality of the temple is that the Devi is sitting on her legs,folding her knees in the same posture as Lord Ayyappa.Usually the pratishtas will have a standing position or may be seated on peedas or their vahanas. But this status of Devi sitting in Yogapadasana revealing an asceic mood or tapobhava is unique to this temple. 

The koothumadams constructed for the Ramayanam Tholpavakkothu is at the north side which shows that the Devi was facing north at some point of time.There is an interesting story behind Devi facing west as now- She was afraid of elephants.When she saw an elephant coming towards the temple during a festival,she got scared and turned her face to the west.The upset Devi turned the elephant into a stone which can still be seen towards the west of the temple.Since then,elephants are not used for festival procession in the temple.Another speciality of the temple is that there are no upadevathas in this temple. .

Devotees visit this temple to seek fulfillment of the following:

• Marriage
• To get married to a person of a girl's choice 
• Health and longevity of husband

History:

There are many stories associated with the temple.One such story goes like this - a mulaya woman(harijan) saw blood oozing out of a rock while sharpening her sickle. It was established as the divine presence of Devi at that place, a temple was duly constucted,and with due courtesy to the Mulaya woman the temple got the name Mulayamkavu. As a result of this,well before the temple act, all the people irrespective of their caste were allowed to enter the temple and also take part in all the functions and celebrations. 

Mulayamkavil Amma is considered as Balabhadrakaali. Her posture represents the childhood and the sword and the vattaka in her hands represents the Kaali.This dual nature of Amma is visible in many matters of the temple as well.For instance,the temple has two openings,one at the north side and the other at the west.The devi is facing west unlike other temples.Only on important days and festivals,the north door would be opened.The Atrassheri Mana has the authority to open the door on important days. 

Festivals:

Unlike other devi temples,every year there are two "Kala velas" and two poorams in this temple,the idapporam or the deshapporam in the meena month and the valiyappooram in medam month.The chuttuvilakku will begin on the first day of the month of vrishchika and ends with thalappoli in the month end.

The kalampaattu will begin on the first tuesday of the dhanu maasa and will be continued till the meena maasa. Nowadays paattu is gaining more significance as it creates a devotional and peaceful environment in and around the temple.Only on this occasion devi is taken outside. .

The most colourful Kala vela in the whole state, happens at Mulayankavu temple, where "Ina kala kolangal" ( twin oxen moulds) are specially prepared for the procession. For an interesting peek into this festival,please visit the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZXUnHxeTvs

ശ്രീ മുളയൻകാവ് ഭഗവതി ക്ഷേത്രം

പാലക്കാട് ജില്ലയില്‍ പട്ടാമ്പി യ്ക്ക് അടുത്ത് കൊപ്പം - ചെർപ്പുളശേരി പാതയ്ക്ക് അരികെ സ്ഥിതി ചെയ്യുന്ന ഒരു പ്രധാന ദേവി ക്ഷേത്രം ആണ് മുളയൻകാവ് ഭഗവതി ക്ഷേത്രം. അനുഷ്ഠാനങ്ങൾക്കും കീഴ്വഴക്കങ്ങൾക്കും പ്രാധാന്യം ഉള്ളതാണിവിടെ. പുതുവർഷാരംഭത്തിൽ തുടങ്ങി ഒരു മാസം നീണ്ടു നിൽക്കുന്ന ആഘോഷങ്ങളോടെ പരിസമാപ്തികുറിക്കുന്നു. വള്ളുവനാട്ടിലെ അവസാന പൂരം എന്നൊരു സ്ഥാനവും ഇതിനുണ്ട്.

പ്രത്യേകതകൾ:

മേടം 1 കൊട്ടിപ്പുറപ്പാട്
            2 പാനവേല
            3 ചപ്പു വേല
            4 കരിവേല
            5 അഞ്ചാം വേല

അഞ്ചാം വേല തൊട്ട് പുലരും വരെ തോൽപ്പാവക്കൂത്തു തുടങ്ങുന്നു. പഞ്ചവടി പ്രവേശനം തൊട്ടു തുടങ്ങുന്ന രാമായണം കഥാവതരണം പൂരം കഴിഞ്ഞ് ശ്രീരാമ പട്ടാഭിഷേകത്തോടെയാണ് അവസാനിക്കുക... പൂരത്തിനു 10 ദിവസം മുമ്പെ നടക്കുന്ന ചെറുകോടുവേലയും വല്ലപ്പുഴ വേലയും വണ്ടുംതറ വേലയും പ്രസിദ്ധമാണ്..

മുളയൻകാവിൽ പൂരത്തേക്കാൾ പ്രസിദ്ധി കാളവേലക്കാണ്...
പൂരത്തിന്റ തലേ ദിവസമാണ് കാളവേല.. സന്ധ്യ മതുൽ നാനാഭാഗത്തു നിന്നും ആർപ്പും വിളികളുമായി എത്തുന്ന കമനീയമായി അലങ്കരിച്ച കാള രൂപങ്ങൾ ഓരോന്ന രോന്നായി പാതിരയ്ക്ക് അമ്പലതിരുമിറ്റത്തേക്കിറങ്ങുന്നു.നേരം പുലരും വരെ തിരുമുറ്റത്തു നിറഞ്ഞു നിൽക്കുന്ന കെട്ടുകാള കാഴ്ച മറ്റെങ്ങുമില്ലാത്തതാണ്

പകൽ പൂരത്തിന് താലപ്പൊലിയാണ് മുഖ്യം താലം നിരത്തൽ, കോമരങ്ങളുടെ നൃത്തം, അരിയേറ് തുടങ്ങിയ ഭക്തി നിർഭരമായ ആചാരങ്ങൾക്ക് പുറമെ പഞ്ചവാദ്യം മേളം തുടങ്ങിയവയും അമ്പലത്തിനു പുറത്ത് തിറ പൂതൻ കളിയും ചവിട്ടു കളിയും പൊടി പാറി നടക്കും. ഭദ്രകാളിയുടെ പ്രതീകങ്ങളാണ് തിറയും പൂതങ്ങളും.. രാവണവധം കഴിഞ്ഞ് ഭൂതങ്ങൾ കളത്തിലെത്തി ചോര കുടിച്ച് നൃത്തം വെച്ച് തിമർത്തുന്നു വെന്നാണ് സങ്കല്പം.

The temple now has a website (http://www.sreemulayankavubhagavathytemple.in) where it offers online puja booking for its devotees spread across the world. Website also has a wealth of information about the temple.

Hearty Onam Greetings to all!

 

Onam, the grandest festival of Kerala, is a 10-day celebration of the end of monsoon, a rich and healthy harvest, as well as the return of King Mahabali to his ancient kingdom. A time for family get-togethers, prayers, feasts, songs and traditional dances, Onam or Thiruvonam shows off kerala at its cultural best. The beautiful landscape of Kerala can be seen in its full radiance at this time of the Malayalam New Year. Due to be celebrated on 14th September this year, it can be a great time to visit the state and the temples here whose beauty has earned it the epithet of being God’s Own Country.

Ten-Day Onam Celebrations:

Onam, the harvest festival is celebrated in the month of Chingam, the first month of Malayalam Calendar. High-spirited people of Kerala celebrate Onam with gaiety and fervor. The festival is celebrated for a period of ten days, starting from the first day "Atham" and continuing till tenth and the biggest day called "Thiru Onam".

Atham (September 4, 2016):

Celebrations of the first day, Atham, are marked by intricate floral carpets called Pookalam. More flowers of different colours are added to this pookalam on each passing day. Girls take great delight in designing them in the front courtyards of their house. Boys take pleasure in helping them gather flowers. Special prayers are also said on Atham in a local temples. Hectic activities for the carnival begin in the state from this day onwards.

The Atham day also marks the start of festivities at Thrikkakara temple, which is considered as one of the centers of Onam and the abode of Mahabali, with the raising of the festival flag. The Onam celebrations across the state, starts off with a grand procession at Thrippunithura near Kochi called Atthachamayam. The event recalls a royal tradition when Maharajas of erstwhile Kochi State as a custom traveled to the Thripunithura Fort with their entire entourage. Today, even in the absence of the King, the custom retains its regal charm. Highpoints of the event are performances by folk artistes, caparisoned elephants, musical ensembles and dance shows by skilled artistes.

Chithira (September 5, 2016):

Two more layers are added to the pookalams, using mostly orange and creamy yellow flowers. People also visit temples to seek blessings.

Chodhi (September 6, 2016):

It is a fun-filled day that marks the start of shopping for Onam. People begin buying new clothes, jewellery, and gifts.

Vishakham (September 7, 2016):

Housewives visit the markets to stock up on ingredients to make the elaborate Onam meal. Markets traditionally used to hold their harvest sale on this day, making it a popular day for shopping. Pookalam design competitions also commence across Kerala on his day.

Anizham (September 8-9, 2016):

Snake boat races kick-off across the state. A mock race is held at Aranmula as a rehearsal for the race that's held there after the main day of Onam.

Thriketa (September 10, 2016):

People start visiting their families and fresh flowers continue to be added to pookalams.

Moolam (September 11, 2016):

The state is beautifully decorated and official government Onam Week celebrations get underway.

Pooradam (September 12, 2016):

The day starts with the ritual installation of pyramid-style clay statues, known as Onathappan, in the center of pookalams. The day starts off with a major traditional ritual where the small statues of Mahabali and Vamana will be washed and cleaned and taken around the house in a procession. It will be later installed in the center of the pookkalam smeared with a rice-flour batter. The smearing is done by small children who are called Poorada unnikal. From this day onwards, the statue will be called Onathappan. By now, the pookalams have greatly grown in size and complexity of design.

First Onam/Uthradom (September 13, 2016):

The ninth day of Onam Celebrations. Uthradom is the ninth and the penultimate day of the festival of Onam. It is considered as Onam eve and celebrated in a very big way. The importance of this day is last minute extreme shopping frenzy called as Uthradappachil and is considered the most auspicious day for purchase of fresh vegetables and fruits along with other provisions from the Thiruvonam day.

Uthradam is known as 'First Onam' because it marks the day when King Mahabali descends onto Kerala. Traditional myths say that the king will spend the next four days touring his erstwhile kingdom and blessing the subjects. Due to this, Uthradom is celebrated in a very pompous manner with larger pookkalams and celebrations in all households. The Uthradom lunch is generally grand. Women normally cut the first set of vegetables on this day that marks the celebrations of Thiruvonam in each household and preparations for grand Thiruvonam feast also start during the evening of Uthradom day.

Second Onam/Thiruvonam (September 14, 2016):

The tenth and final day of Onam celebrations that culminates the 10 days of Onam Carnival. The day is known as Thiru-Onam (Sacred Onam Day) also known as 'Second Onam'. Myth says that this was the day Mahabali was sent to the netherworld ( Pathalam) by Vamana. The day marks the return of Mahabali to his fabled land (Kerala), as per the boon he received from Vamana to meet his subjects and bless them. Apart from this myth, this day is considered auspicious being birthdays of several temple deities representing Vishnu, like Vamana of Thrikkakara temple, Sree Padmanabha Swamy of Thiruvananthapuram etc.

Activities begin early in the morning. People clean their house, apply rice flour batter on the main entrance (a traditional welcome sign), take an early bath, wear new clothes and distribute alms to needy. The eldest female member of each family presents clothes to all the members of the family. Special prayers and Masses are organized in temples, churches and mosques that highlight the secular nature of festival. The pookkalam is prepared to welcome Mahabali.

"Onasadhya" is the most delicious part of the grand festival . It is considered to be the most elaborate and grand meal prepared by any civilization or cultures in the world. It's a feast which if enjoyed once is relished for years. Legend goes that Mahabali who was so attached to his people that he requested Gods to allow him to visit Kerala every year. People of Kerala wish to convey that they are enjoying the same age of prosperity as was witnessed during the reign of King Mahabali by preparing a grand Onasadhya.

Rich and the poor, everybody prepares Onasadya in a grand fashion as people of Kerala are extremely devotional and passionate when it comes to Onasadya. So much so that, it has led to saying, 'Kaanam Vittum Onam Unnanam'. Meaning - men go to the extent of selling all their possessions for one Onam sadya.

Most cities in Kerala, such as the political, commercial and cultural capitals Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Thrissur, are lit up with lights and fabulous displays of fireworks. Sumptuous Onam Sadya feasts are prepared. In Thrikkakara temple, a mega-feast is conducted which is open to the public and is attended by more than twenty thousand people.[13] The afternoon is marked with various traditional Onam games, usually seen in rural areas, and are organized by resident associations and clubs in large cities. In some parts of Kerala, people indulge in various games and dances (Onakkalikal) during and post Thiruvonam. These include Thiruvathirakali, Kummattikali, Pulikali etc.

Third Onam/Avvittom (September 15, 2016):

Preparations are undertaken for King Mahabali's departure. Onathappan statues are immersed in the sea or river, and pookalams are cleared and removed. The day is also important, as the famous Pulikali is held in the city of Thrissur. In this, men dressed as lions, tigers and leopards, parade through the city in large numbers. The Puli-Kali also mark the end of traditional Onam celebrations.

Fourth Onam/Chatayam (September 16, 2016):

Onam Week celebrations end with a street parade, traditional art forms, and dance in Trivandrum.

Time for Fun - Dances and Games:

After the grand meal on Thiruvonam, it's time for people to indulge in recreational activities and enjoy the festival. Men of strength and vigor go in for rigorous sports. There is a set of traditional games to be played on Onam which are collectively called, Onakalikal. Traditional games of Onam constitute rigorous sports like Talappanthukali, Kutukutu and combats like Kayyankali and Attakalam.

Women go in for dancing activities as there are specific dances like Kaikottikali and Thumbi Thullal for the festival of Onam. Women performing the graceful clap dance called Kaikotti kali in their traditional gold bordered mundu and neriyathu presents a splendid sight. Besides, there is also a tradition of playing on a decorated swing hung from a high branch. Onappaattu - Onam Songs, are also sung on the occasion.

Celebrations and cultural programs are held all across the state to mark the festival of Onam in which a large number of people participate. Prominent amongst them are Vallamkali- the Snake Boat Race and entertaining events like Kummatti kali and Pulikali. The other highpoint of Onam is the dazzling display of fireworks. The state of Kerala can be seen engulfed in light and spirit of merriment when people burst patassu or fire crackers.

Wishing all a prosperous year ahead.. Team Devaayanam.