Chakkulathukavu Sree Bhagavathi Temple — Attraction in Kerala

CHAKKULATHUKAVU TEMPLE HISTORY

The ancient history of the temple has some divine connections with the story of Sumbha and Nishumbha referred to in the Devi Mahatmyam. The story goes that two demoniac characters called Sumbha and Nishumbha derived super human powers through rigorous meditation of Lord Brahma. They received a boon that they could be killed only through a battle with woman. Such a condition being almost impossible, Sumbha and Nishumbha conquered Indra and other Devas. They became the unquestioned monarchs of the three worlds. The helpless Devas under had to flee away and take shelter in remote jungles.

Saint Narada feeling pity at the misery of the Gods approaches his father Lord Brahma. Brahma reminds Narada that ups and downs are the law of life and that was what the Gods were experiencing. There was only one way out for this despicable state of affair. Only one power could restore power and prosperity to Gods and that power was none other than the very Goddess. Devas accordingly moved in search of Goddess. Reaching near Himavan, the epic King of the mountains, they started chanting powerful mantras to appease the Goddess. They plunged into a he artful tribute of the Goddess who in herself was power, knowledge, creativity, benevolence and blessings.

Goddess Parvathy had just arrived on the banks of river Ganga. Echoes of the mantras reached her. There was a touch of grief and pleading in the sounds of Devas. Goddess Parvathy grasped the pitiable plight of Devas. There emerged another Goddess from within her as if something comes out of a cover. This was the incarnation of Goddess Durga, having taken a divine form to rescue the Devas from the hardships caused by the asuras. The story culminates in a terrible fight between the "Goddess and Asuras under the leadership of Sumba and Nishumbha. It was an encounter unheard of ever before. Needless to specify, all the asuras were annihilated by the Goddess. The Devas got back the early powers and prosperities. Sage Narada appears in front of them and exults them about the invincibility of goddess Durga. She was the cause as well as witness for the creation, maintenance and destruction the universe, told Narada.

It is believed that the Goddess residing in Chakkulathukavu is a wholesome reaction of this all-pervading Goddess...

Chakkulathu Kavu is a Hindu temple, dedicated to goddess Durga. The temple is located in Neerattupuram, Thalavadypanchayat, Alappuzha District, Kerala and is one of the most popular temples in the state.

Durga is one of the most popular deities in the area. Pilgrims from all over South India visit and worship the Devi.The temple was less known even to the local residents and lay as a family temple of a local resident. This remained until it was renovated a few decades before.

Located on the banks of the holy Pampa River, this temple has attracted pilgrims all over Kerala and became one of the most popular pilgrim centre of the state, thanks to the excellent promotional strategy of the temple management.

The major festival is Pongala which takes place in the temple during the month of Vrischikam (November/December).This is the time when the glory of the Goddess is at its peak. Lakhs of women devotees gather around the temple as early as even one week before the function. The temple premises will be overcrowded and the devotees arrange places for offering the pongala on both sides of the main streets. The queue usually extends to a surprising length of 20 km. Rice, coconut and jaggery are brought by women devotees along with round earthen pots for cooking. The Chief Priest lights the main hearth from the divine fire inside the sanctum sanctorum. This fIre is exchanged from one oven to another.

Panthrandu Noyampu is another festival celebrated at the temple. This is the type of fasting and prayer which qualifies the devotee for eternal blessings of Chakkulathamma. This fasting starts every year from the first day of the Malayalam month of Dhanu till the twelfth.

The other festivals are Naree...

Chakkulath Sree Bhagavathi Temple, located in Alappuzha district of Kerala, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Bhagavathi. The temple holds immense significance for devotees and visitors due to its rich history, architectural beauty, and spiritual ambience.

The temple is known for its stunning architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant colors that reflect the traditional Kerala style. The serene surroundings of the temple, nestled amidst lush greenery and serene backwaters, create a tranquil and spiritually uplifting atmosphere.

Devotees flock to Chakkulath Sree Bhagavathi Temple to seek blessings from the goddess Bhagavathi, believed to be a bestower of fertility and prosperity. The temple's annual festival, "Chakkulathukavu Pongala," is a major event that draws thousands of worshippers who offer pongala (a ritualistic offering) to the deity, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.

The temple's management and staff are known for their hospitality and dedication, ensuring that visitors receive a warm welcome and have a fulfilling spiritual experience. Additionally, the temple complex includes facilities for pilgrims, such as dining halls and accommodation, reflecting the commitment to providing a comfortable and inclusive environment for all devotees.

Overall, Chakkulath Sree Bhagavathi Temple offers a deeply enriching and culturally immersive experience for those seeking spiritual solace and an insight into Kerala's religious traditions. Whether for religious purposes or simply to appreciate the temple's architectural beauty and serene surroundings, a visit to this sacred site is sure to leave a...