Introduction to Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple
Nestled in the heart of Kottayam, Kerala, the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple stands as a testament to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of God’s Own Country. This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is not just a place of worship but a treasure trove of art, architecture, and history. Let’s embark on a virtual journey to explore this magnificent temple and uncover its many wonders.
Location and Accessibility
The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is located in Ettumanoor, a small town in the Kottayam district of Kerala, India. Its precise address is:
Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple
Ettumanoor P.O.
Kottayam District
Kerala – 686631
India
The temple is easily accessible by road, with regular bus services from Kottayam town, which is about 12 km away. For those traveling from afar, the nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, approximately 78 km from the temple.
The Divine Presence: Lord Shiva
At the heart of the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is the main deity, Lord Shiva. The temple houses a magnificent idol of Lord Shiva, known as Ettumanoor Mahadevar. This idol is believed to possess immense spiritual power, drawing devotees from far and wide to seek blessings and divine intervention.
A Glimpse into History
The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple boasts a rich history that dates back over 1000 years. Legend has it that the temple was founded by the Pandya kings in the 8th century CE. Over the centuries, it has been renovated and expanded by various rulers, including the Chera and Thekkumkoor kings.
The temple finds mention in ancient Tamil literature, particularly in the works of Sangam poets. Its historical significance is further enhanced by the presence of inscriptions in old Malayalam and Tamil scripts, providing valuable insights into the region’s cultural and linguistic evolution.
Architectural Marvel
The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is a stunning example of Kerala’s traditional temple architecture. Its most striking feature is the two-tiered circular sanctum sanctorum, crowned with a copper-plated roof. This unique architectural style, known as ‘gaja-prishta’ (elephant’s back), is rarely seen in other Kerala temples.
The temple complex is enclosed by high walls, with the eastern gopuram (tower) serving as the main entrance. As you enter, you’ll be greeted by a flagstaff (dwajasthambam) and a large namaskara mandapam (prayer hall).
One of the temple’s most remarkable features is its exquisite mural paintings. These vibrant artworks, dating back to the 16th and 18th centuries, adorn the walls of the sanctum sanctorum and depict scenes from Hindu epics and mythologies. The mural of Pradosha Nritham (Lord Shiva’s dance) is particularly famous for its artistic brilliance.
Festivals and Celebrations
The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple comes alive during its numerous festivals and events. Some of the major celebrations include:
- Ettumanoor Pooram: This grand 10-day festival, usually held in February or March, is the temple’s most important event. It features colorful processions, elephant parades, and traditional art forms.
- Sivarathri: Celebrated with great fervor, this festival involves night-long prayers and special rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Thiruvathira: This festival, observed in the Malayalam month of Dhanu (December-January), is marked by special prayers and cultural performances.
- Ashtami Rohini: Celebrated as Lord Krishna’s birthday, this festival sees the temple decorated beautifully and special poojas conducted.
These festivals not only showcase the temple’s spiritual significance but also offer visitors a chance to experience Kerala’s rich cultural traditions.
Visiting Hours and Best Time to Visit
The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple welcomes devotees and visitors throughout the year. The temple timings are:
- Morning: 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Evening: 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Arti (ritual of worship) timings:
- Morning Arti: 5:30 AM
- Noon Arti: 12:00 PM
- Evening Arti: 7:30 PM
The best time to visit the temple is during the early morning hours when the atmosphere is serene and conducive to spiritual contemplation. However, if you wish to witness the temple in its festive glory, plan your visit during the Ettumanoor Pooram festival.
Unique Features and Rituals
The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is known for several unique features and rituals:
- Ezharaponnana: The temple houses a golden elephant statue, believed to bring prosperity to devotees who touch it.
- Thulabharam: A ritual where devotees offer items equal to their body weight as a form of thanksgiving.
- Pushpanjali: A special flower offering ritual performed daily at noon.
- Sacred Pool: The temple complex includes a holy pond where devotees take ritual baths.
- Ancient Inscriptions: The temple walls feature inscriptions in old Malayalam and Tamil scripts, offering historical insights.
- Mural Paintings: The temple’s exquisite mural paintings are considered among the finest examples of Kerala’s traditional art.
These unique aspects make the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple not just a place of worship, but also a site of great cultural and historical importance.
Conclusion of Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple
The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple in Kottayam, Kerala, is more than just a religious site. It’s a living testament to Kerala’s rich cultural heritage, artistic traditions, and spiritual devotion. Whether you’re a devotee seeking blessings, an art enthusiast admiring the murals, or a history buff exploring ancient inscriptions, this temple offers something for everyone.
