Kodungallur-Bhagavathi-Temp-L, Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple, Thrissur, Kerala
Kodungallur-Bhagavathi-Temp-L, Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple, Thrissur, Kerala
Date built:–
Deity:–
Architectural style:–
Major festivals–
Locale:Kodungallur
District::
Thrissur 
Address:Pettumma, Kodungallur, Kerala 680664
Phone04802803061

1. Introduction & Spiritual Essence

Sree Kurumba Bhagavati Temple, universally known as the Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple, stands as the spiritual apex of Bhadrakali worship in Kerala. Located in Thrissur district, the presiding deity is Bhadrakali, a fierce yet benevolent form of Maha Kali (Parashakthi). Locally revered as Kodungallur Amma (The Mother of Kodungallur), the goddess is depicted in her ugra (fierce) form, facing North with eight hands wielding various attributes, including the head of the demon king Daruka and a sickle-shaped sword.

Phalaśruti (Spiritual Benefits):
Devotees visit primarily to seek protection from evil forces and to cleanse ancestral karma. The temple is traditionally believed to be the original embodiment of Goddess Kali, making it a powerful site for Shakti worship. It is the head of 64 Bhadrakali temples in Kerala, particularly in the Malabar region. Devotees believe that worshipping here removes obstacles and grants the Bhakta (devotee) the strength to overcome life’s battles.

2. Historical Origins & Scriptural Legend

Origin of the Deity:
The temple’s history is deeply intertwined with the Silappathikaram, the epic Tamil poem by Ilango Adigal. Tradition holds that Kannaki, the heroine who destroyed the city of Madurai through righteous fury, traveled to Kodungallur. It is here that she prayed to Bhadrakali and attained Moksha (salvation), believed to have merged into the sacred murti (idol) of the temple.

See also  Attukal Temple History and Darshan Timings: Complete Pilgrimage Guide

Chera Dynasty & Construction:
During the reign of the Later Cheras, Mahodayapuram (modern-day Kodungallur) served as the capital. The temple is believed to have been established approximately 1,800 years ago by Cheran Chenkuttuvan. While the exact date is lost to antiquity, temple records suggest that the site was originally a Shiva shrine. It was the legendary Parasurama who installed the murti of Bhadrakali adjacent to Shiva. The worship practices here incorporate ancient Shaktyem customs that predate many contemporary temple rituals in Kerala.

Local Legend:
According to local lore, the temple was constructed by the Cheraman Perumal. The installation follows the Rurujit Vidhaana pattern in Tantric terms—a form of consecration placing Shiva at one end, Ganesha at the other, and the Sapta Matrikas (Seven Mothers) in between. Five Sri Chakras installed by Adi Shankaracharya are believed to be the primary source of the deity’s spiritual energy.

3. Architectural Marvels

The temple architecture follows the traditional Kerala Style with distinct Tantric alignments. The complex sits on a ten-acre plot surrounded by ancient banyan and peepal trees.

  • The Sanctum Sanctorum (Srikovil): Unlike most Kerala temples, the Srikovil faces North (a direction usually reserved for Yama, but here symbolizing the fierce protective gaze of Bhadrakali).
  • The Idol: The murti is approximately seven feet high, carved from a single jackfruit tree. The eight arms hold weapons and symbols of power.
  • Sapthamatruka Shrine: Located in the western chamber of the inner temple, the Seven Mothers face north, accompanied by idols of Ganapathi (facing east) and Veerabhadra (facing west).
  • Sacred Water Body (Pushkarini): Located about fifty meters from the main shrine, this pond is believed to have been created by the goddess striking the ground with her sword. Devotees bathe here before Darshan.

4. Darshan & Ritual Logistics

Daily Timings:
Routine worship typically runs from 03:00 to 21:00 local time. However, timings may vary during festival seasons.

See also  Vazhappally Maha Siva Temple: History, Timings & Complete Guide
SessionTiming
Morning Darshan03:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Afternoon Break12:00 PM – 04:00 PM
Evening Darshan04:00 PM – 09:00 PM

Key Sevas & Online Booking:
To perform rituals, devotees can book through the official temple website or the Kerala Devaswom Board portal.

  • Abhishekam: Ritual bathing of the deity with milk, honey, and sandalwood.
  • Archana: Chanting of the goddess’s holy names.
  • Thulabharam: Offering items equal to the devotee’s weight.
  • Online Portal: Visit www.devaswomportal.kerala.gov.in to book specific Sevas.

2026 Festival Dates:
Assuming the current year is 2026, the following major festivals are anticipated. (Note: Dates are based on the Malayalam calendar and may vary slightly).

  • Kodungallur Bharani (Kavutheendal): May 8, 2026 (Friday) – The most significant festival involving traditional folk songs and rituals.
  • Navarathri: October 6 – October 14, 2026 – Special Valiya Vilakku (grand lamp) ceremonies.
  • Mandala Kalam: November 17, 2026 – December 27, 2026 – Peak season for Sabarimala pilgrims visiting this temple.

5. Practical Visitor Guidance

  • Dress Code: Traditional attire is mandatory. Men must wear Mundu or Dhoti; women must wear Saree or Salwar Kameez (modest clothing). Shorts and t-shirts are not permitted.
  • Photography: Strictly prohibited inside the inner courtyard and sanctum sanctorum. Mobile phones are allowed but must be on silent mode.
  • Mobile Lockers: Free lockers are available near the entrance for electronic devices and prohibited items.
  • Accessibility: The temple complex has stone steps; wheelchair access may be difficult in older sections. Volunteers are available during peak hours.
  • Crowd Management: Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays are exceptionally crowded. Best time to visit: Early morning (3:00 AM – 5:00 AM) or late evening (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM). During summer (April-May), carry water and an umbrella.

6. Pilgrimage Connectivity

How to Reach:

  • By Air: Cochin International Airport (COK) is the nearest airport, approximately 25 km away (45 mins by road via NH 66).
  • By Rail: Kodungallur Railway Station is the nearest halt. Alternatively, Thrissur Railway Junction (20 km) is a major hub with better connectivity.
  • By Road: Located on the Kochi – Ponnani Highway (NH 66). Buses are frequently available from Thrissur and Ernakulam.
See also  Ananthapura Lake Temple History & Darshan Timings 2026

Nearby Sacred Sites (Pilgrimage Circuit):

  1. Thrissur Vadakkunnathan Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage site dedicated to Lord Shiva, 20 km away.
  2. Koodalmanikyam Temple: Famous for its Bharani festival and Lord Irattakkudi (a form of Vishnu), located in Irinjalakuda (25 km).
  3. Mammiyoor Temple: Located near Guruvayur, dedicated to Lord Shiva, often visited alongside the Kodungallur temple.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is there a VIP darshan entry available?

Yes, the temple offers special entry darshan for senior citizens and physically challenged devotees. VIP tickets can be purchased at the counter, subject to availability, usually allowing faster access to the sanctum.

2. Is non-Hindu entry permitted?

While the Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple is primarily a Hindu place of worship, the rules regarding non-Hindu entry can vary based on the administration’s current guidelines. It is advisable to check with the temple office before planning a visit.

3. Why is the temple famous for Kavutheendal?

The Kavutheendal (Bharani festival) is unique to this temple. Historically, it involved animal sacrifices, which are now banned. The festival is known for the ritualistic singing of traditional ballads and the offering of red-dyed cloths.

4. What are the restriction timings?

The temple remains closed between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM daily. During festival days, these timings may be altered to accommodate devotees.

5. Can we offer “Theyyam” performance at this temple?

Theyyam is a ritualistic art form specific to North Kerala. While Kodungallur is a Bhadrakali shrine, Theyyam performances are usually offered at the nearby Bhadrakali shrines in North Malabar. Specific offerings at Kodungallur include traditional Bhagavathy rites.

“O Devi of Kodungallur, protect us from all evils and lead us to prosperity.”— A traditional prayer from the temple devotees.

Photo Gallery

How to Reach:

Contact Details

Official Address

Recent Posts

Mere Satguru Ne Di Thi Davai Lyrics in Hindi & Meaning

Mere Satguru Ne Di Thi Davai: Invoking the Guru’s Liberating Wisdom This soul-stirring bhajan venerates the Satguru (True Spiritual Master) as the divine physician who dispenses the only remedy for life’s deepest sufferings. Composed by Sant Karmaveer Tufani, it…

Janm Diyo Thari Maa Dukh Dekhiyo Lyrics in Hindi & Meaning

जन्म दियो थारी माँ दुख देखियो (Maa’s Grief Upon Birthing You) This soul-stirring Chetavani Bhajan (admonitory hymn) is addressed to the Divine Mother (Maa) – a call for repentance when children forget their filial duties in the dark age…

Bhadi Sabha Mein Thane Manaun Lyrics in Hindi & Meaning

Bhadi Sabha Mein Thane Manaun: Invoking the Spear-Wielding Mother Mata Bhawani (श्री ज्वाला भवानी), the fiery manifestation of Shakti worshipped as the Protector of Dharma in Her Dhaulagarh sanctum. Origin & Spiritual Essence Composed in Rajasthani folk tradition by…

Maat Meri Chintapurni Lyrics in Hindi & Meaning

Maat Meri Chintapurni is a heartfelt devotional prayer dedicated to Maa Chintapurni, a form of the Divine Mother. She is revered as the remover of worries and the granter of wishes, especially venerated in the Himalayan region of Himachal…

थारी रे नदियां का ढावा पे खीची राजा Lyrics & Meaning

खीची राजा का अद्भुत युद्ध: एक शौर्य गाथा यह भजन एक पौराणिक या ऐतिहासिक शूरवीर राजा की वीरता का वर्णन करता है, जो प्रायः गुजराती लोक संस्कृति में लोककथाओं का हिस्सा है। इसकी रचना दुर्गेश कटारा ने की है…