Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple, also known as the Sri Kurumba Bhagavathi Temple, is a famous Hindu temple located in the town of Kodungallur in Thrissur district, Kerala, India. This temple is dedicated to the goddess Bhadrakali, a fierce form of the goddess Shakti. The temple is considered to be one of the most mysterious temples in India due to its rich mythology and unexplained phenomena.
Legend of the Temple
According to the legend, the temple was built by Parasurama, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. Parasurama is said to have thrown his axe into the sea, which led to the emergence of the land where the temple was built. The temple is also associated with the story of the goddess Bhadrakali, who killed the demon Daruka and his army here.
Mysterious Phenomena
The Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple is known for several mysterious phenomena that have puzzled visitors and scientists alike. One of the most intriguing of these mysteries is the presence of a perpetual flame in the temple's sanctum sanctorum. The flame is said to have been burning continuously for thousands of years, and no one knows exactly how it is kept burning.
Another mystery associated with the temple is the presence of a strange rock in the temple's courtyard. The rock is believed to have been brought from the Himalayas by Lord Hanuman and is said to possess mystical powers. Many people claim to have experienced spiritual and healing effects after touching the rock.
The temple is also known for its annual Bharani festival, which is celebrated in the month of Kumbham (February-March) every year. During the festival, devotees offer sacrifices and perform frenzied dances to appease the goddess. The festival is known for its intense energy and is often associated with unusual occurrences, such as possessed devotees who are said to be controlled by the goddess.
Conclusion
The Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple is a fascinating place that has captured the imagination of people for centuries. Its rich mythology and mysterious phenomena make it one of the most intriguing temples in India. Whether you are a believer or a skeptic, a visit to this temple is sure to leave you with a sense of wonder and awe.
The history and mythology of Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple
Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple, also known as the Sri Kurumba Bhagavathy Temple, is an ancient Hindu temple located in Kodungallur, Kerala, India. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Bhadrakali, who is believed to be the incarnation of the supreme goddess Shakthi.
The history of the Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple dates back to the 7th century, and it is believed to have been built by Cheraman Perumal, the Chera king. The temple was later renovated and expanded by various rulers, including the Zamorin of Calicut and the rulers of Cochin.
The temple has a rich mythology associated with it. According to legend, the temple was once a forest where the goddess Bhadrakali appeared to the sage Kakkathuruthi. She promised to protect the area and asked the sage to build a temple in her honor. The sage built the temple, and the goddess Bhadrakali became the presiding deity of the temple.
Another legend associated with the temple is that of the famous Kerala king, Cheraman Perumal. It is said that he was a devotee of the goddess Bhadrakali and visited the temple often. He even donated his kingdom to the temple before leaving for Mecca to embrace Islam.
The Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple is known for its elaborate rituals and festivals. The most famous festival is the Bharani festival, which is held annually in March/April. During the festival, devotees dressed in red carry traditional weapons and dance to the beats of drums and cymbals. It is believed that the goddess Bhadrakali possesses the devotees during the festival and grants their wishes.
Overall, the Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple is an important cultural and religious landmark in Kerala, attracting devotees and tourists from all over India and the world.
The unique architecture and design of the temple
The temple's architecture and design are unique in many ways, reflecting a blend of different styles and influences. Some of the most notable features include:
The use of traditional Thai architecture, with curved roofs, intricate carvings, and gilded ornaments.
The incorporation of elements from other Asian cultures, such as Chinese-style dragon motifs and Indian-style pagodas.
The use of modern building techniques and materials, such as reinforced concrete and steel.
The inclusion of modern amenities, such as air conditioning and elevators, alongside traditional features such as meditation halls and prayer rooms.
The temple's overall size and scale, which make it one of the largest religious buildings in the world.
The intricate and detailed murals and sculptures that adorn the walls and ceilings of the temple, depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology and history.
Overall, the unique architecture and design of the temple reflect a deep respect for tradition and a commitment to innovation and modernity.
The annual Bharani festival and its significance
The Bharani festival is an annual festival celebrated in Kerala, India, primarily by the Hindu community. It is usually held in the month of Kumbham (February - March) in the Malayalam calendar.
The festival is celebrated in various parts of Kerala but is most popular in the village of Kodungallur, which is believed to be the ancient port city of Muziris. The festival is dedicated to the goddess Bhadrakali, who is considered to be a fierce form of the Hindu goddess Shakti.
The festival is known for its unique rituals and traditions. One of the most prominent features of the festival is the procession of the Kavu Theendal, which involves the ritual cleaning of the temple premises using brooms made of coconut leaves. The procession is led by a group of men dressed in traditional attire and carrying swords, who dance to the beats of traditional drums.
Another important aspect of the festival is the offering of blood by devotees to the goddess Bhadrakali. This is done by piercing the tongue or other parts of the body with metal rods. The practice is considered a form of penance and devotion to the goddess.
The festival is also characterized by the presence of a large number of traditional street performers, such as Theyyam artists, who perform in the temple premises during the festival. The festival culminates with the grand procession of the deity, which is taken out in a beautifully decorated chariot.
The Bharani festival is significant as it is believed to be a celebration of the triumph of good over evil. It is also an occasion for the people of Kerala to come together and celebrate their culture and traditions.
The legends and tales associated with the goddess Bhagavathy
The goddess Bhagavathy, also known as Devi, is a popular deity in Hinduism and is worshipped across many regions of India. She is considered to be a powerful and benevolent goddess who represents the feminine power of the universe.
There are many legends and tales associated with Bhagavathy, each highlighting her unique qualities and attributes. Here are a few of them:
The Birth of Bhagavathy: According to Hindu mythology, Bhagavathy was born to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. She was created to help defeat the demon Mahishasura who was terrorizing the world. Bhagavathy went on to lead the battle against the demon and emerged victorious.
The Tale of Kottiyoor Temple: The Kottiyoor temple in Kerala is dedicated to Bhagavathy and is one of the oldest temples in the region. Legend has it that the temple was built by Lord Parasurama, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. The story goes that Parasurama was searching for a place to perform a yagna (a ritual sacrifice) and was directed by Lord Shiva to the site where the temple now stands. The temple is famous for its annual festival called the Kottiyoor Vaisakha Mahotsavam which attracts thousands of devotees.
Bhagavathy and the Buffalo: In some regions, Bhagavathy is believed to have a close association with buffaloes. The story goes that once, a group of bandits were attacking a village when Bhagavathy appeared in the form of a buffalo and drove them away. Since then, buffaloes have been considered sacred and are often offered as sacrifices at Bhagavathy temples.
The Story of Kaliyattam: Kaliyattam is a traditional dance-drama performed in Kerala which is dedicated to Bhagavathy. The story goes that once, a group of fishermen were caught in a storm at sea and prayed to Bhagavathy for help. She appeared to them in the form of Kali, a fierce goddess who defeated the storm and saved the fishermen. The Kaliyattam is performed to commemorate this event.
The Legend of Chamundi: In Karnataka, Bhagavathy is worshipped as Chamundi, a fierce goddess who is believed to have defeated the demon Mahishasura. According to legend, the demon had received a boon from Lord Brahma which made him invincible to all male beings. However, he had not counted on the power of the feminine. Chamundi defeated him and became known as the goddess of victory.
Overall, the legends and tales associated with Bhagavathy highlight her role as a powerful and benevolent goddess who is worshipped for her ability to protect and bless her devotees.
Similar mysterious temples in India and their stories
Kailash Temple, Ellora - The Kailash Temple in Ellora is one of the most magnificent temples in India. It is a rock-cut temple that was built in the 8th century AD. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered to be one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus.
Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur - The Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was built in the 11th century AD by the Chola dynasty. The temple is known for its massive size and intricate carvings.
Konark Sun Temple, Odisha - The Konark Sun Temple in Odisha is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built in the 13th century AD and is dedicated to the Hindu god Surya. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures.
Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu - The Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was built in the 12th century AD by the Hoysala dynasty. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures.
Meenakshi Temple, Madurai - The Meenakshi Temple in Madurai is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Meenakshi. It was built in the 17th century AD and is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures. The temple is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus.
What is the history behind the Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple?
The Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple, also known as the Sri Kurumba Bhagavathy Temple, is a Hindu temple located in Kodungallur, Kerala, India. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali, a form of the Hindu goddess Shakti.
According to legend, the temple was founded by Parasurama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who is said to have created the land of Kerala from the sea. The temple is believed to have been built in the 7th century AD by Cheraman Perumal, the last king of the Chera dynasty.
The temple has a rich history and has been a center of worship for many centuries. It was a major center of the Chera kingdom and was later ruled by the Cochin royal family. The temple was also a center of trade and commerce and was visited by merchants from all over the world.
The temple has undergone several renovations over the years. The current structure of the temple was built in the 16th century by the Portuguese. The temple is known for its unique architecture, which is a blend of Hindu and Portuguese styles.
The Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple is also famous for its annual festival, the Bharani festival. The festival is celebrated in March or April and is marked by a procession of devotees carrying swords and other weapons. The festival is believed to be a reenactment of the goddess Bhadrakali's battle with the demon Darika.
Today, the Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and attracts thousands of devotees every year.
What are the unique features of the architecture of the Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple?
The Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple is a Hindu temple located in the town of Kodungallur in Kerala, India. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali, a form of the Hindu goddess Kali. The architecture of the temple is unique and reflects the traditional Kerala style of architecture. Some of the unique features of the temple are:
The temple is built in the traditional Kerala style of architecture with a sloping roof and carved wooden pillars.
The temple has a rectangular shape with four entrances, each facing a different direction.
The main shrine of the temple is circular in shape and is covered with copper plates.
The temple has a large courtyard and a flag post.
The temple has several smaller shrines dedicated to different gods and goddesses.
The temple is surrounded by a wall with four gates, each guarded by a statue of a mythical creature.
The temple has a large pond or tank called the Kuttamkulam, which is used for religious rituals.
The temple has a unique tradition of allowing only women to offer prayers to the goddess Bhadrakali. Men are not allowed to enter the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.
Overall, the Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple is an example of traditional Kerala temple architecture and is known for its unique features and customs.
What are the rituals and festivals celebrated in the Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple?
The Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple, located in Kerala, India, celebrates several rituals and festivals throughout the year. Some of the prominent ones are:
Bharani Festival: This is the most significant festival celebrated at the temple. It falls in the month of Kumbham (February-March) and lasts for seven days. The temple is adorned with lights and decorations, and devotees from all over the state come to offer their prayers to the goddess.
Navaratri: This is a nine-day festival celebrated in the month of Thulam (October-November) to honour the goddess. On each day, different forms of the goddess are worshipped, and special pujas and homas are performed.
Thalappoli: This is a unique ritual where women carry lamps and flowers and perform a procession around the temple. It is held on the day of Makayiram in the month of Kumbham.
Kaliyattam: This is a traditional dance-drama performed during the Bharani festival. It depicts the story of the goddess and her victory over the demon Daruka.
Thiruvathira: This is a festival celebrated in the month of Dhanu (December-January), where women fast and perform dances to seek the blessings of the goddess.
Vishu: This is a New Year festival celebrated in the month of Medam (April-May) where the temple is decorated with flowers and lights, and special pujas are performed.
Mandala Puja: This is a 41-day long festival celebrated during the Mandalakalam period (November-December) where the goddess is worshipped every day with special pujas and offerings.
What are the legends associated with the Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple?
The Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in Kerala, India. It is dedicated to the goddess Bhadrakali, who is considered to be one of the most powerful and fierce forms of the goddess Shakti. The temple has many legends and stories associated with it, some of which are:
According to one legend, the temple was built by Parasurama, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. He is said to have created the temple as a way of seeking redemption from the sin of killing his own mother.
Another legend states that the temple was the site of a fierce battle between the goddess Bhadrakali and the demon Daruka. The goddess emerged victorious and the temple was built to commemorate her triumph.
It is also believed that the temple was visited by Lord Rama on his way to Lanka to rescue his wife Sita. He is said to have worshipped the goddess here and sought her blessings.
The temple is also associated with the story of Kannaki, a legendary Tamil woman who avenged her husband's unjust execution. According to the story, after Kannaki's husband was executed by the king, she set fire to the city and then threw her left breast at the king, which turned into a deadly serpent and killed him. The temple is said to have been built at the spot where her breast fell.
The temple is also associated with the legend of the goddess Kali's victory over the demon Darika. According to the story, Darika had received a boon that he could only be killed by a virgin girl. The goddess Kali took the form of a virgin girl and killed Darika, thus saving the world from his tyranny. The temple was built in Kali's honor at the spot where this happened.
How has the Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple influenced the local culture and traditions?
The Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple, also known as the Sri Kurumba Bhagavathi Temple, is a famous Hindu temple located in the town of Kodungallur in the Thrissur district of Kerala, India. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Bhadrakali, and it is believed to be one of the 108 Durga temples in India.
The temple has a rich history and is considered to be one of the oldest temples in Kerala. It is believed that the temple was built by Cheran Chenguttuvan, a legendary king from the ancient Chera dynasty. Over the centuries, the temple has undergone many renovations and has become an important cultural and religious center in the region.
The Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple has had a significant influence on the local culture and traditions. The temple is a symbol of the rich cultural heritage of Kerala, and it is a source of inspiration for many artists, writers, and musicians. The temple's annual festival, the Bharani festival, is one of the most famous festivals in Kerala, and it is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor by the local people.
The temple has also played a significant role in the social and economic development of the region. It is a major tourist attraction and attracts thousands of visitors every year. The temple has also been a center of education and learning, and it has played a crucial role in preserving the traditional arts and crafts of the region.
In conclusion, the Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple has had a profound impact on the local culture and traditions. It is a symbol of the rich cultural heritage of Kerala and has played a significant role in the social, economic, and spiritual development of the region.
