The deity here is Bhagavathy – a female god. The goddess is also known as Bhadrakali or Jagadambika. The temple, it is believed, is built by Parasurama. The structure is in Kerala style architecture. The giant multi-tiered stone lamps, erected in front of the sanctum, can hold a thousand wicks. The granite idol looks smiling. The outer courtyard has some shrines with folk deities. There is a belief that some parts of the temple courtyard is haunted by evil spirits. Temple elephants are not taken to west side of the courtyard for fear of haunt.
Kalamezhuthu and Pattu ( multi-colour powdered big sketch in the ground and songs), sponsored by different villages, conducted 41 days from 1st Vrichikam (November-December). On the last day, Puram Kurithi (homicide outside) is performed. Its prasadam (remnants of the offering to the deity) is capable of providing immunity against smallpox and similar contagious diseases, believe the locals. Large number of crowds gather during this festivity.
Thottampattu (deity-oriented folk songs). For this performance there is a special structure in the temple premises. This is performed during the 13-day Ethirelppu (receiving) festival. The deity’s Mudi – imaginary hair of Devi – a blackboard size wooden piece with deity’s sculptured portrait is brought by the people of Erezha South as part of their offering , and installed at the Pattambalam. Thottampattu is performed before the Mudi with necessary rituals and orukku (preparations and paraphernalia). Kuruppasans of a family from Kaniyampuram near Thiruvananthapuram sings Thottampattu thrice during every day of the festival. The traditional songs of Thottampattu include Dharika Vadam (killing of Dharika - a demon), Balaka’s (a Hindu mythological entity) etc. The people believe that children would be cured, and get immunity against fits and polio by hearing Thottampattu, a main ritual at Bhadrakali temples of central Travancore.
Ezhannullathu (the deity is taken out from the sanctum sanctorum and goes round the temple with entourage) on Bharani day (November-December). The deity is taken out in a Kai Vattaka – a brass utensil – by the elder priest. During all these festivals big gathering is noticed.
Getting There:
- Air : Nedumbassery Airport
- Rail : Alappuzha Station
