Chirakkadavu Mahadeva Temple
This temple is located at Chirakkadavu which is on Kollam-Theni Road, about 32-km from Kottayam town. This shrine has over 100 years of history. The deity is Mahadeva (Shiva) and the idol is in the form of ‘Swayambu Lingam’ which was reportedly detected from the shadow of a Bilwa tree, the ancestors testify. The temple, probably built during the reign of Alwars at the site where the Lingam was seen, gained glorification gradually. The temple pond nearby was not dug. The place where the Lingam detected was an inundating area during monsoon. The temple was therefore raised on a bund for which soil was dug from nearby. The present pond is the place from where soil was dug for the bund.
Pilgrims en-route to Sabarimala used to seek the blessings of Mahadeva and the pilgrims consider this deity as father of Lord Ayyappa in Sabarimala. Some of the Sabarimala pilgrims used to organize and conduct Ayyappapattu (the song to propitiate Lord Ayyappa) here.
Velathullal (a ritualistic dance) and Velakali (ritualistic play) by children between the age of 5 and 20 in warriors’ attires and holding swords and shields accompanied by drum beats during the festival are exclusively seen here only.
One of the important rituals here is fish feeding called Meenari. The temple provides required rice for cash to the devotees who in turn feed the fish in the temple pond. This ritual is aimed at curing the ailments of devotees and the members of their families. Many conduct this ritualistic offer daily.
Jaladhara (bathing or pouring of water on the idol) and Mrithunjaya Pushpanjali (floral ritual for long life) are the other important offerings. Swayamvara Pushpanjali (floral ritual for marriage alliance) is also an equally important offering here.
There is a Balikallu (sacrificing stone) which is abnormal in size. A sculpture and a granite carved oil lamp in front receive admiration from all. Equally admiration received is the intricate wood carvings.
