ELAMKULAM SREE
MAHADEVA TEMPLE SREEKARYAM, THIRUVANANTHAPURAM.
The Elamkulam Sree
Mahadeva Temple, located in the peaceful Sreekaryam area of Thiruvananthapuram,
Kerala, is a divine abode of Lord Shiva. While the temple is primarily
dedicated to Lord Shiva, its spiritual and architectural richness is enhanced
by the presence of various sub-deities that make it a multifaceted spiritual
center. Among these sub-deities, Nandi, the sacred bull and the vehicle of Lord
Shiva holds a special place. Nandi, often depicted as a loyal and powerful
servant of Lord Shiva, is an essential figure in the temple's rituals.
Positioned at the entrance of the sanctum sanctorum, Nandi symbolizes devotion,
strength, and loyalty. It is customary for devotees to offer prayers to Nandi
before entering the sanctum to pay their respects to Lord Shiva. This practice
highlights the integral role Nandi plays as a mediator between the worshippers
and the supreme deity, ensuring that their prayers reach Lord Shiva. The
temple’s architecture reflects this importance, with Nandi’s shrine situated in
a prominent location, aligning with the temple's spiritual design. Along with
Nandi, Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, occupies an important position.
He is widely worshipped for his ability to bless devotees with wisdom, success,
and the removal of any hindrances in their paths. A separate shrine dedicated
to Lord Ganesha is found within the temple grounds, drawing a constant flow of
devotees seeking his blessings before embarking on important undertakings or
new ventures. Additionally, the temple enshrines Parvati, the divine consort of
Lord Shiva, symbolizing feminine energy, strength, and devotion. Parvati's
presence in the temple is significant, as it highlights the integral role of divine
feminine power within the cosmic order, complementing Lord Shiva’s masculine
energy. Durga and Bhadrakali, both revered goddesses associated with protection
and power, are also part of the temple’s sub-deities. Durga represents the
fierce and protective aspect of the divine, known for her ability to destroy
evil forces and restore balance, while Bhadrakali embodies strength, courage,
and the force that conquers demonic powers. Their shrines within the temple
complex provide devotees with a sanctuary to seek divine protection from harm
and the strength to overcome adversities in their lives.
The diversity of deities at Elamkulam Sree Mahadeva Temple also includes Hanuman, the devoted servant of Lord Rama, who is worshipped for his unmatched strength, loyalty, and devotion. His presence signifies the importance of unwavering faith and devotion in overcoming life's challenges. Lord Ayyappa, another important deity in the temple complex, is revered as a god of penance and pilgrimage. Ayyappa’s association with devotion, self-discipline, and the famous pilgrimage to Sabarimala is deeply ingrained in the religious fabric of Kerala. The temple also honors various regional deities like Naga gods, the serpentine deities associated with fertility, prosperity, and protection. Naga worship has been an important aspect of Kerala's religious practices for centuries, and the presence of these gods in the temple emphasizes the connection between the divine and natural forces. Brahmarakshas, a type of vengeful spirit, is another unique deity found in the temple, associated with both appeasement rituals and the spiritual energy needed to pacify such spirits. The Yakshiamma, the guardian deity associated with the protection of the temple and its surrounding area, represents the local spirits and deities tied to the land. Her worship is particularly significant in protecting the devotees from evil forces and bringing harmony to the local community. Moreover, nearby the Elamkulam Sree Mahadeva Temple is a separate shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna, a highly revered deity in the Hindu pantheon. The worship of Lord Krishna, who embodies love, compassion, and divine playfulness, adds another layer of spiritual depth to the temple complex, offering devotees a space to experience a connection with Krishna's divine attributes. The presence of these multiple sub-deities within the temple complex not only enriches the overall spiritual experience but also highlights the inclusiveness and diversity of worship in Hinduism. Devotees can come here to seek divine blessings, protection, wisdom, strength, and harmony from a variety of deities, each with their own unique qualities. The Elamkulam Sree Mahadeva Temple, therefore, serves as a multifaceted spiritual hub where the divine is honored in various forms, reflecting the wide spectrum of Hindu beliefs and practices.
LEGEND:
The legend of Elamkulam Sree Mahadeva Temple revolves around divine
intervention. According to local lore, a Brahmin named Neelakandan Namboothiri,
from the Itayavanathu Madom family, was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. One
evening, as he prepared to go to the temple for his daily worship, he injured
his leg, preventing him from making the journey. Disheartened, he went to bed
that night. In his dream, Lord Shiva appeared to him and expressed displeasure
about his inability to worship. Shiva instructed Neelakandan to visit a grove
near a pond the following morning. The next day, Neelakandan followed the
vision, and to his astonishment, he discovered a self-manifested Shiva Lingam
on a large rock in the middle of the pond. This miraculous appearance was
considered a divine sign. Overcome with gratitude, Neelakandan began daily
worship at the site. As the legend spread, more devotees gathered, and a temple
was eventually constructed around the Lingam. The legend highlights the power
of faith and divine grace, emphasizing that temples are not just physical
structures, but living manifestations of devotion and spiritual energy. The
temple’s origin continues to inspire devotion and serves as a reminder of the
divine connection between humanity and the higher power.
TEMPLE POND:
The temple pond at Elamkulam Sree Mahadeva Temple is a vital and sacred
feature of the temple complex. Spanning over an acre, it plays a central role
in the temple’s rituals, with devotees bathing in its waters for spiritual
purification before entering the temple to worship Lord Shiva. Water in
Hinduism symbolizes purity and renewal, making the pond a key element of the
temple's spiritual atmosphere. The pond’s significance is further heightened by
its connection to the temple’s legend, as it is believed to be the site where
the self-manifested Shiva Lingam was discovered by Neelakandan Namboothiri. The
serene waters also provide a peaceful space for reflection and meditation,
enhancing the overall experience for devotees. Additionally, the pond contributes
to the ecological balance of the temple grounds, fostering harmony with nature.
Overall, the temple pond is a symbol of purity, divine presence, and spiritual
cleansing, integral to the worship and tranquility of the temple.
GOSHALA:
Another vital aspect of
the Elamkulam Sree Mahadeva Temple is its Goshala, or cow shelter. In Hinduism,
cows are regarded as sacred animals, and their role in religious and cultural
traditions cannot be overstated. The Goshala at this temple is dedicated to the
protection and care of cows, which are seen as embodiments of the divine. The
cows housed here are cared for with love and devotion, reflecting the temple's
commitment to preserving the sacred relationship between humans and nature. The
Goshala is particularly significant because it ties into the broader
Vaishnavite traditions associated with Lord Krishna, who is depicted as a
cowherd and a protector of cattle in Hindu mythology. While the primary deity
of Elamkulam Temple is Lord Shiva, the presence of a Goshala within the temple
grounds highlights the interconnectedness of various spiritual practices within
Hinduism. It is also a reminder of the importance of compassion, kindness, and
the need to care for all living beings, especially those considered sacred in
Hindu tradition. In addition to its spiritual significance, the Goshala plays a
role in the cultural life of the temple. Cows are revered as symbols of wealth,
nourishment, and fertility, and they contribute to the agricultural practices
of the region. The Goshala thus becomes a hub for not just religious rituals
but also agricultural sustainability, as cows are essential to the farming
community's daily life, helping with plowing and providing manure for crops.
DAILY POOJA
AND FESTIVALS:
Elamkulam Sree Mahadeva Temple
conducts daily poojas beginning at 4:30 AM with Nirmalyam and Abhishekam,
followed by morning rituals such as Usha Pooja, Archana, and Deeparadhana. The
temple closes at 11:15 AM. In the evening, rituals resume at 5:00 PM and
conclude with Athazha Pooja and the nightly Deeparadhana by 8:15 PM. These
rituals are performed with deep reverence and in strict accordance with
traditional tantric customs, attracting devotees every day.
The temple's festival
calendar is equally vibrant. The Dhanumasa Thiruvathira, celebrated in
December–January, is one of the most important events, featuring Koottu
Mrityunjaya Homam, Uma Maheswara Pooja, and cultural programs like
Thiruvathirakali. Maha Shivaratri is celebrated with special Abhishekams,
including the unique 5001 Kudam Dhara and Ekadasa Dravya Abhishekam. Another
highlight is the annual Bhagavatha Sapthaha Yajnam, a seven-day spiritual
discourse accompanied by bhajans, poojas, and annadanam (free meals). These
daily rituals and festivals make Elamkulam Sree Mahadeva Temple a spiritually
vibrant center where tradition, community, and devotion come together in
celebration of divine presence.
INFORMATIONUPDATE MONDAY 7 APRIL 2025
ELAMKULAM SREE MAHADEVA TEMPLE TIMINGS/NO ENTRY FEE:
DAY TIMING
MONDAY 4:30 am – 11:15 am
5:00
pm – 8:15 pm
TUESDAY 4:30 am – 11:15 am
5:00
pm – 8:15 pm
WEDNESDAY 4:30 am – 11:15 am
5:00
pm – 8:15 pm
THURSDAY 4:30 am – 11:15 am
5:00
pm – 8:15 pm
FRIDAY 4:30 am – 11:15 am
5:00
pm – 8:15 pm
SATURDAY 4:30 am – 11:15 am
5:00
pm – 8:15 pm
SUNDAY 4:30 am – 11:15 am
5:00
pm – 8:15 pm
à´°ാà´µിà´²െ:
TIME POOJA
4.30 am പള്à´³ിà´¯ുണർത്തൽ
5.00 am to 5.10 am à´¨ിർമ്à´®ാà´²്à´¯ ദർശനം
5.15 am à´…à´ിà´·േà´•ം
5.30 am à´¦ീà´ªാà´°ാധന
6.00 am to 6.30 am ഗണപതിà´¹ോà´®ം, à´®ൃà´¤്à´¯ുà´ž്ജയ à´¹ോà´®ം
6.40 am ഉഷഃ à´ªൂà´œ (à´•ൂà´Ÿെ ജലധാà´°
à´¤ുà´Ÿà´™്à´™ും)
7.15 am ഉഷഃ à´¦ീà´ªാà´°ാധന
7.30 am ഉഷഃ à´¶ീà´µേà´²ി
9.30 am à´°ാà´µിà´²െ 9.30am വരെ ജലധാà´° à´¤ുà´Ÿà´°ും
10.15 am ഉച്à´š à´ªൂà´œ
11.00 am à´¦ീà´ªാà´°ാധന
11.15 am ഉച്à´š à´¶ീà´µേà´²ി
à´µൈà´•ുà´¨്à´¨േà´°ം.
TIME POOJA
5.00 pm നടതുറക്കൽ
6.30 pm സന്à´§്à´¯ാ à´¦ീà´ªാà´°ാധന
7.30 pm à´…à´¤്à´¤ാà´´ à´ªൂà´œ
8.00 pm à´¦ീà´ªാà´°ാധന
8.15 pm à´…à´¤്à´¤ാà´´ à´¶ീà´µേà´²ി
à´¶ീà´µേà´²ി à´•à´´ിà´ž്à´žാൽ ഉടൻ നട à´…à´Ÿà´¯്à´•്à´•ുà´¨്നതാà´£്/à´¤ിà´™്കൾ, à´µ്à´¯ാà´´ം, ശനി à´¦ിവസങ്ങളിൽ ഉച്à´šà´¯്à´•്à´•് 11.30 à´¨ാà´£് നട à´…à´Ÿà´•്à´•ുà´¨്നത്.
HOW TO REACH
ELAMKULAM SREE MAHADEVA TEMPLE:
BY AIR: The nearest airport is Trivandrum
International Airport, approximately 12 kilometers from the temple. From the
airport, you can hire a taxi or use app-based cab services to reach the temple
directly.
BY TRAIN: The closest railway station is
Thiruvananthapuram Central, about 10 kilometers away. From the station, taxis
and auto-rickshaws are readily available to take you to the temple.
BY ROAD:
Sreekaryam is well-connected by road. You can use local buses, auto-rickshaws,
or private vehicles to reach the temple. If driving, navigate towards
Sreekaryam Junction and follow signs to Elamkulam Junction.
LOCAL
TRANSPORTATION: Within
Thiruvananthapuram, auto-rickshaws and taxis are convenient options.
Ride-sharing services also operate in the city, providing additional
flexibility.
ADDRESS:
ELAMKULAM SREEMAHADEVA TEMPLE,
ELAMKULAM JUNCTION,
SREEKARYAM P.O
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM KERALA-695017
CONTACT NUMBER: +91 471
2552112
Comments
Post a Comment