Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple In Kerala
Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is a prominent Hindu temple located in Ettumanoor, a town in the Kottayam district of Kerala, India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest and most revered temples in the state. With its architectural grandeur and spiritual significance, the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple attracts devotees and tourists from all over the world.
History:
The history of Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is steeped in mythology and legends. According to popular belief, the temple was founded by Lord Parasurama, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, around 4000 years ago. It is said that Lord Parasurama installed the idol of Lord Shiva, known as Ettumanoorappan, in the temple. Over the years, the temple has witnessed various renovations and additions, preserving its sanctity and making it a significant pilgrimage site in Kerala. The temple’s ancient origins and enduring spiritual importance contribute to its reverence and draw devotees and visitors from far and wide.
Architecture:
The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple showcases exquisite traditional Kerala architecture. The temple complex features a magnificent gopuram (tower) at the main entrance, adorned with intricate wood carvings and sculptures. The temple walls are adorned with beautiful murals depicting mythological stories and scenes. The sanctum sanctorum houses the idol of Lord Shiva, made of a unique combination of clay, plaster, and herbal extracts. The temple’s architectural grandeur, with its intricate details and aesthetic appeal, is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans of yesteryears. The architectural style of the temple reflects the rich cultural heritage of Kerala and adds to the overall spiritual ambiance of the sacred place. Visitors to the temple are captivated by its architectural beauty and find solace in its serene surroundings.
Main Sanctum:
The main sanctum of Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is the focal point of devotion and worship. It houses the principal deity, Lord Shiva, in the form of a massive idol. The idol, known as Ettumanoorappan, is made of a unique blend of clay, plaster, and herbal extracts. It stands as a symbol of divine presence and benevolence. Devotees offer prayers and perform rituals to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva in the sanctum. The sanctum is beautifully decorated with flowers, garlands, and lamps during religious ceremonies and festivals. The atmosphere inside the sanctum is filled with devotion and spiritual energy, creating a sense of awe and reverence among the devotees. The sanctum is a sacred space where devotees connect with the divine, offering their prayers, expressing their gratitude, and seeking solace and guidance in their spiritual journey.
Rituals and Worship:
The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple follows traditional rituals and customs in its daily worship. The day begins with the morning ablutions and ceremonial bathing of the idol of Lord Shiva. The priests perform various rituals, including abhishekam (sacred bath), alankaram (decoration), and deeparadhana (waving of lamps), to honor the deity. The temple priests, trained in Vedic traditions, conduct pujas (prayers) and offer devotional hymns and songs to invoke the blessings of Lord Shiva. The devotees actively participate in the rituals, offering flowers, fruits, and other offerings to the deity. The temple observes strict religious practices and timings, ensuring the sanctity and purity of the worship. The rhythmic chants, the fragrance of incense, and the vibrant atmosphere create a sacred ambiance, allowing devotees to deepen their connection with the divine. The rituals and worship at Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple are not only a religious practice but also a way for devotees to express their devotion and seek spiritual solace.
Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple In Kerala
Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple Timings:
The following table lists these are the Ettumanoor Temple timings. It is possible to refer to the table below for timings.
| S.No | Time | Pooja/ Darshan |
| 1 | 4.00 am | Temple Opening Hours.
Nirmalyam |
| 2 | 4.20 am | Abhishekam |
| 3 | 5.45 am | Madhavipalli Pooja |
| 4 | 6.15 am | Ethrith Pooja |
| 5 | 6.45 am | Sribali |
| 6 | 8.00 am | Pandheeradi Pooja |
| 7 | 10.30 am | Dhara, Kalasam |
| 8 | 11.15 am | Ucha Pooja |
| 9 | 11.45 am | Ucha Sribali |
| 9 | 11:45 am | Temple Closing Hours |
| 10 | 5.00 pm | Temple reopens.
Nada Thurakkal. |
| 11 | 6.20 pm | Deeparadana |
| 12 | 7.15 pm | Athazha Pooja |
| 13 | 7.45 pm | Athazha Sribali |
| 14 | 8:30 pm | Temple closing Hours |
The timings of these events can change during the festival season. Therefore, it is possible to look up the timings at regular times.
Festivals:
Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is renowned for its vibrant and elaborate festivals that attract a multitude of devotees. The most significant festival celebrated at the temple is the Ettumanoor Shivaratri. During this festival, the temple is adorned with lights, flowers, and decorations, creating a festive atmosphere. The highlight of the festival is the ceremonial procession of caparisoned elephants, accompanied by traditional music and dance performances. Devotees throng the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Shiva.
Other major festivals celebrated at the temple include Navaratri, which is dedicated to the worship of the Divine Mother, Vishu, the Malayalam New Year, and Thiruvathira, a festival celebrating the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva. These festivals are marked by special rituals, devotional singing, and cultural performances that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.
The festivals at Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple provide an opportunity for devotees to immerse themselves in devotion, witness colorful traditions, and experience the joyous spirit of celebration in the divine presence of Lord Shiva.
Cultural Significance:
Apart from its religious importance, the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple holds significant cultural value. It serves as a center for classical art forms and traditional Kerala music. The temple premises often host cultural events and performances, showcasing the rich heritage and artistic traditions of the region.
Art forms like Kathakali, a classical dance-drama, and Ottamthullal, a traditional satirical performance, find expression within the temple’s cultural activities. These performances depict mythological stories and moral tales, entertaining and enlightening the audience.
Furthermore, the temple’s association with music is evident during festivals and special occasions when musicians and vocalists perform devotional songs and classical music, creating an enchanting ambiance.
By promoting and preserving these cultural practices, the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple contributes to the continuity of Kerala’s artistic legacy and provides a platform for artists to showcase their talent. It serves as a hub for cultural exchange, attracting artists, scholars, and enthusiasts who appreciate and celebrate the artistic and cultural traditions of the region.
Temple Administration:
The administration of Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is overseen by the Travancore Devaswom Board, an autonomous body responsible for the management of various temples in Kerala. The board appoints qualified priests and staff members to ensure the smooth functioning of the temple and its associated activities.
The temple administration takes care of the day-to-day operations, maintenance, and preservation of the temple premises. They ensure that the temple is clean and well-maintained, providing a pleasant environment for devotees. The administration also coordinates the various rituals, festivals, and cultural events held at the temple, ensuring their smooth execution.
Additionally, the administration handles the financial management of the temple, including the collection and utilization of donations and funds. They strive to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of temple assets and resources.
The Travancore Devaswom Board plays a crucial role in upholding the traditions, values, and sanctity of the temple. Through their diligent efforts, they ensure that the temple remains a revered place of worship and a cultural landmark for devotees and visitors alike.
Devotee Facilities:
Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple provides various facilities for devotees. Separate queues are arranged for men and women to ensure a smooth darshan (sight) of the deity. Restrooms and cloakrooms are available for the convenience of visitors. The temple also has a dining hall where prasadam (blessed food) is served to the devotees. The temple administration strives to maintain cleanliness and hygiene within the premises, ensuring a comfortable and fulfilling experience for the devotees.
Spiritual Significance:
Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple holds immense spiritual significance for devotees. It is believed that a visit to the temple and the darshan (sight) of Lord Shiva can bring peace, prosperity, and liberation from worldly sufferings. The temple serves as a sacred space where devotees can connect with the divine, offer prayers, and seek blessings. The spiritual atmosphere within the temple, filled with the chants of Vedic hymns and the fragrance of incense, creates an environment conducive to spiritual reflection and devotion. Many devotees engage in deepening their spiritual practices through meditation and introspection within the temple premises. The ancient traditions, rituals, and teachings associated with the temple guide and inspire seekers on their spiritual journey. Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple stands as a beacon of spirituality, providing solace, guidance, and a sense of divine connection to all those who seek spiritual fulfillment.
How To Reach Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple :
Reaching Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is convenient as it is well-connected by various modes of transportation.
By Road: The temple is easily accessible by road. Regular bus services operate from nearby towns and cities like Kottayam. Private taxis and auto-rickshaws are also available for hire. The temple is located on the Kottayam-Kumily Road, making it easily approachable.
By Train: The nearest railway station to the temple is the Ettumanoor Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in Kerala and other parts of India. From the railway station, one can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple, which is just a short distance away.
By Air: The nearest major airport is the Cochin International Airport, which is located approximately 77 kilometers away from Ettumanoor. Regular domestic and international flights connect the airport to various cities in India and abroad. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or use public transport to reach the temple.
Overall, whether you prefer traveling by road, train, or air, reaching Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is convenient, and the well-connected transportation options ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey to the sacred place of worship.
Contact Details:
We have provided the Ettumanoor temple’s contact information.
Address:Ettumanoor Temple Road,
Kottayam,
Ettumanoor,
Kerala 686631
Ettumanoor Temple Contact number0481 271 9375
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