.PNG)
ATTUKAL BHAGAVATHY TEMPLE: A SACRED ABODE OF DIVINE FEMININE ENERGY.
THE LEGEND AND HISTORY OF ATTUKAL BHAGAVATHY TEMPLE: Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, situated in
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is a renowned Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess
Bhagavathy, an incarnation of Parvati. The temple's origins are deeply
interwoven with the Tamil epic Silappatikaram, which narrates the legendary
tale of Kannaki, a devoted wife who transformed into a divine figure. According
to mythological accounts, Kannaki's husband, Kovalan, was wrongfully accused of
theft and executed by the Pandya king. In a fit of grief and rage, Kannaki
unleashed her divine wrath upon Madurai, setting the city ablaze before
embarking on a journey southward. As she traveled, she reached Attukal, where
she was welcomed by local women who recognized her as a divine entity. It is
believed that she chose this location as her abode, leading to the construction
of the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple. The temple’s historical significance is
further reinforced by its deep-rooted traditions, which have been preserved
over centuries. While the precise date of its establishment remains uncertain,
historians and scholars estimate that the temple has stood for more than a
millennium. Over time, it has evolved into a major religious site, renowned for
its spiritual prominence and grand festivities. The temple's structure has
undergone numerous renovations, blending traditional Kerala and Dravidian
architectural elements. The sanctum sanctorum houses a beautifully adorned idol
of Goddess Bhagavathy, symbolizing her fierce yet benevolent nature. This
sacred space is embellished with exquisite carvings, murals, and depictions of
Hindu mythological stories, making it an important cultural and architectural
landmark in Kerala. Devotees from across the country visit the temple
throughout the year, drawn by its religious significance, historical legacy,
and spiritual atmosphere.
.PNG)
The Attukal Bhagavathy Temple is not only dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy
but also enshrines several sub-deities, each holding unique significance in
Hindu spirituality. Maha Ganapati (Lord Ganesha) is worshipped as the remover
of obstacles and the harbinger of prosperity, making him the first deity to
whom devotees offer prayers before seeking blessings from the Goddess. Mahadeva
(Lord Shiva), the supreme ascetic and cosmic protector, represents divine
balance and transformation, emphasizing the temple’s deep-rooted connection to
Shaiva traditions. Another important presence is Vasuki (Naga Raja), the
serpent king, who is venerated for his role in fertility, prosperity, and the
removal of ancestral curses (Sarpa Dosha). Kerala has a long history of serpent
worship, and devotees often conduct special rituals to appease the Nagas and
seek protection for their families. Other significant sub-deities include Madan
Thampuran, a guardian deity believed to protect the temple and its devotees
from negative forces, with his worship often associated with safeguarding
health and well-being. Hanuman, the devoted disciple of Lord Rama, symbolizes
unparalleled strength, courage, and devotion, attracting those who seek his
blessings for protection and perseverance in life’s challenges.
.PNG)
Additionally, the temple honors Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, and Mahasaraswati,
three powerful aspects of the Divine Mother. Mahakali, the fierce and
protective form of Shakti, represents the destruction of evil and the triumph
of righteousness. Mahalakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, blesses
devotees with abundance and fortune, while Mahasaraswati, the goddess of wisdom
and learning, grants knowledge, creativity, and intellect. Dharmasastha,
another significant deity, is worshipped as a divine protector and the
embodiment of dharma (righteousness), often associated with Lord Ayyappa. His
presence in the temple symbolizes the balance between duty, justice, and
devotion. Together, these deities enhance the temple’s spiritual energy, making
it a powerful center of worship where devotees seek divine blessings for
protection, wisdom, prosperity, and inner strength.
.PNG)
The statue of Moodevi came to my attention quite by chance. The Attukal
Bhagavathy Temple is unique in enshrining Moodevi, a rarely seen goddess
symbolizing misfortune and adversity. A black lamp is continuously lit near her
shrine, representing the dispelling of darkness and negativity. According to
Hindu Puranas, Moodevi emerged after Goddess Lakshmi during the Churning of the
Ocean (Samudra Manthan) and was assigned by Vishnu to reside in unclean places.
A Tamil folklore describes a quarrel between Moodevi and her sister Seedevi,
representing ignorance and wisdom. A sage diplomatically declared Moodevi
beautiful when leaving and Seedevi when arriving, signifying the departure of
misfortune and the arrival of prosperity. Devotees pray to Moodevi for
protection from hardships and obstacles.
.PNG)
ATTUKAL PONGALA FESTIVAL.
A GRAND CELEBRATION OF WOMANHOOD AND DEVOTION: The Attukal Pongala
Festival is a grand religious event dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy, attracting
millions of women from Kerala and beyond. Celebrated annually in the Malayalam
month of Kumbham (February-March), it is one of the largest all-women religious
gatherings in the world. The highlight of the ten-day festival is the Pongala
offering on the ninth day, where devotees prepare a sacred dish of rice,
jaggery, coconut, and cardamom as an act of supreme devotion. The ritual begins
with the lighting of the Pandara Aduppu inside the temple, and the sacred flame
is passed from one hearth to another, creating a vast network of flickering
fires across Thiruvananthapuram. Dressed in traditional white sarees, women
participate in prayerful devotion, seeking divine blessings for their families
while embodying faith, patience, and collective spiritual strength.
.PNG)
More than a religious ritual,
Attukal Pongala is a powerful assertion of female spiritual authority in an
otherwise patriarchal religious landscape. Unlike many Hindu festivals where
men lead ceremonies, Pongala is exclusively performed by women, earning Attukal
Temple the title "Sabarimala of Women." The event entered the
Guinness Book of World Records in 2009 for hosting over 2.5 million women in a
single religious gathering. Beyond religious significance, the festival
strengthens cultural traditions, fostering generational bonding as women pass
down rituals, prayers, and faith-based customs. It is also a moment of
solidarity, gratitude, and emotional renewal, reinforcing familial and
community ties in an atmosphere of mutual respect and devotion.
.PNG)
Attukal Pongala’s impact extends
beyond faith, influencing Kerala’s cultural and economic landscape. The influx
of devotees stimulates local businesses, while the festival’s growing
recognition potentially as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage highlights its
role in preserving traditional religious practices. Charitable initiatives
flourish during this time, supporting the underprivileged and strengthening
community welfare. As temple priests bless the final offerings and sprinkle
holy water over thousands of Pongala pots, an overwhelming sense of spiritual
fulfillment fills the air. Women return home with renewed faith, believing
their prayers have been heard, ensuring peace, prosperity, and divine
protection for the year ahead.
.PNG)
KUTHIYOTTAM, THALAPPOLI, AND THE PROCESSION OF THE GODDESS:
Kuthiyottam is a significant ritual performed
during the Attukal Pongala festival, symbolizing devotion, discipline, and
spiritual dedication. This ritual involves young boys, usually between the ages
of 5 and 12, who are considered the symbolic soldiers of Goddess Attukal
Bhagavathy. They undergo a strict 7-day penance within the temple premises,
following rigorous rituals, prayers, and fasting under the guidance of temple
priests. The boys, adorned with traditional attire and sacred threads, perform
a disciplined dance-like movement, representing their offering to the deity.
The climax of Kuthiyottam involves a grand procession where these boys, holding
small swords and shields, move in rhythm with traditional music, showcasing
their dedication. This ritual is deeply rooted in Kerala’s cultural traditions
and is believed to bless the participating children with health, prosperity,
and spiritual enlightenment.
.PNG)
Thalappoli is another significant
ritual, predominantly performed by young girls and women as an offering to the
Goddess. During this sacred ceremony, participants, dressed in traditional
attire, carry brass or silver plates filled with flowers, rice, and a lit lamp,
symbolizing prosperity and divine blessings. The Thalappoli procession moves
gracefully through the temple premises, creating an enchanting visual
experience. The participants chant devotional hymns and offer prayers to
Attukal Bhagavathy, seeking her blessings for happiness and well-being. This
ritual is seen as an expression of feminine devotion and the divine power of
women, reinforcing the temple’s strong association with female spirituality.
.PNG)
The Procession of the Goddess is the
grandest event marking the culmination of the Attukal Pongala celebrations. The
idol of Attukal Bhagavathy is beautifully adorned with ornaments and vibrant
silk garments before being carried on a majestic, elaborately decorated
chariot. Accompanied by traditional percussion music, devotional singing, and
colorful parasols, the divine procession moves through the streets surrounding
the temple, allowing thousands of devotees to witness and pay their respects.
Devotees believe that catching a glimpse of the Goddess during the procession
grants them immense spiritual merit and divine blessings. The festival
atmosphere, with its vibrant lights, rhythmic chants, and sheer devotion,
creates an overwhelming sense of spiritual fulfillment for all those present.
.PNG)
OTHER FESTIVALS AND RITUALS AT ATTUKAL TEMPLE.
Apart from the
Pongala festival, the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple hosts several other important
rituals and celebrations throughout the year. The annual Mandala Vratham and
Vinayaka Chathurthi are observed with great devotion, attracting thousands of
devotees. The temple also celebrates Navaratri, a festival dedicated to the
divine feminine, with special pujas, cultural programs, and traditional music
performances. During Saraswati Puja, young children participate in the
Vidyarambham ceremony, where they are introduced to the world of knowledge and
learning under the blessings of the goddess. Another significant event is
Bhagavathy Seva, a ritual dedicated to the goddess for seeking her protection
and prosperity. The temple also conducts Kuthiyottam, a ritual offering by
young boys who observe rigorous fasting and perform symbolic military exercises
as a mark of devotion. These festivals and rituals showcase the temple’s
deep-rooted traditions and its role as a center of spiritual and cultural
significance in Kerala. Every festival at the temple is marked by grand
processions, traditional dance performances, and devotional music, adding to
its divine charm. The temple remains a beacon of faith, drawing devotees from
across India and reinforcing the enduring spiritual legacy of Kerala.
.PNG)
CULTURAL
AND SOCIAL IMPACT:
Beyond its
religious significance, the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple plays a vital role in the
social and cultural fabric of Kerala. The temple’s rituals and festivals serve
as a platform for community bonding, where people from different backgrounds
come together in devotion and harmony. The Pongala festival, in particular, is
a testament to the temple’s emphasis on female empowerment, as it celebrates
the spiritual strength of women. The temple also actively engages in charitable
activities, including educational support, healthcare initiatives, and food distribution
to the needy. The management of the temple ensures that the traditions are
preserved while also adapting to modern needs. The temple's architecture,
adorned with beautiful sculptures and intricate carvings, stands as a
reflection of Kerala’s artistic heritage. It is also a popular destination for
tourists, who visit to experience its divine ambiance and historical
significance. The temple remains an embodiment of Kerala’s religious
traditions, its devotion to goddess worship, and its commitment to social
service. Whether through its grand festivals or its daily rituals, the Attukal
Bhagavathy Temple continues to inspire and unite people, keeping alive the
spirit of faith and devotion for generations to come.
.PNG)
PRAYER
VERSES (DEVI MAHATMYAM)
"Sarva Mangala Mangalie Shive
Sarvardha Sadhike
Saraneye Thrambike Gowri Narayani Nomo
Sthuthe"
Devi Mahatmyam, also known as Durga Saptashati or Chandi
Path, is one of the most revered Hindu scriptures dedicated to Goddess Durga.
It is part of the Markandeya Purana and consists of 700 verses (shlokas)
divided into 13 chapters, glorifying the supreme power of the Divine Mother.
The text narrates the Goddess’s victories over demonic forces, symbolizing the
triumph of good over evil.
KEY
VERSES FROM DEVI MAHATMYAM:
Mahishasura
Mardini Stuti (Chapter 4 – Praise by the Devas)
"Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu, Shakti-Rupena Samsthita
Namastasyai, Namastasyai, Namastasyai Namo Namah"
Salutations to the Goddess who dwells in all beings as
power (Shakti). I bow to her again and again.
Devi
Kavacham (Chapter 1 – Protective Armor of the Goddess)
"Om Jayanti Mangala Kali, Bhadrakali Kapalini
Durga Kshama Shiva Dhatri, Swaha Swadha Namostute"
Salutations to the Goddess, who is victorious,
auspicious, and fierce. She is Durga, the forgiver, the giver of welfare, and
the embodiment of divine energy.
Narayanistuti
(Chapter 11 – Praise of the Goddess by Lord Vishnu and Other Gods)
"Sarva Swarupe Sarveshe, Sarva Shakti Samanvite
Bhayebhyas Trahi No Devi, Durge Devi Namostute"
O Goddess, who is the embodiment of all forms and
possesses all powers, protects us from fear. Salutations to You, O Durga.
The Devi Mahatmyam is chanted during Navaratri, Durga Puja,
and other sacred occasions, invoking the divine grace of Goddess Durga to bless
devotees with strength, protection, and prosperity.
DARSHAN TIMINGS:
DAY TIMING
MONDAY 4:30
am – 12:30 pm
5:00
pm – 8:30 pm
TUESDAY 4:30
am – 12:30 pm
5:00
pm – 8:30 pm
WEDNESDAY 4:30
am – 12:30 pm
5:00
pm – 8:30 pm
THURSDAY 4:30
am – 12:30 pm
5:00
pm – 8:30 pm
FRIDAY 4:30
am – 12:30 pm
5:00
pm – 8:30 pm
SATURDAY 4:30
am – 12:30 pm
5:00
pm – 8:30 pm
SUNDAY 4:30
am – 12:30 pm
5:00
pm – 8:30 pm
PRATHANA VAZHIPADUKAL:
Muzhukap, Panchamrita
Abhishekam, Kalabhabhishekam (in a golden bowl), Ashtadravya Abhishekam,
Kalashabhishekam, Panthirunazhi, 101 Kalathil Pongala, Pushpa Abhishekam,
Laksharchana, Bhagavatiseva, Raktapushpanjali, Chempattu Samarpanam,
Udayasthamana Puja, Arthavilak Puja, Chuttuvilakku, Sreebali, Sarvaiswarya Puja
on every full moon day, Vedivazhipad, Shivan Dhara, and Ganapathi Homam.
.PNG)
HOW TO REACH:
Attukal Bhagavathy Temple is located approximately 2 kilometers from the heart of Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), Kerala, India. Its proximity to the city center makes it easily accessible by various modes of transportation.
Air: The nearest
airport is Trivandrum International Airport, situated about 7 kilometers from
the temple. Upon arrival, travelers can hire taxis or use ride-sharing services
to reach the temple.
Train: The closest railway station is Thiruvananthapuram Central (Trivandrum Central), which is approximately 3 kilometers from the temple. From the station, visitors can take auto-rickshaws, taxis, or buses to reach the temple premises.
Road:
Thiruvananthapuram is well-connected by road networks. The Kerala State Road
Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates regular bus services within the city,
and several routes pass near the temple area. Additionally, auto-rickshaws and
taxis are readily available for convenient travel within the city.
ATTUKAL BHAGAVATHY
TEMPLE
ATTUKAL, MANACAUD P.O.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM -
695009
KERALA, INDIA
PHONE: +91 471 246
3130, +91 471 245 6456
FAX: +91 471 245 6457
EMAIL: attukal@vsnl.com
During major festivals like the Attukal Pongala, the influx of devotees can lead to traffic diversions and limited parking. It's advisable to plan your visit accordingly and consider using public transportation during these times.
Comments
Post a Comment