Kadakkal Thiruvathira Festival 2025 | കടയ്ക്കൽ തിരുവാതിരയിലെ അടിപൊളി കാഴ്ച്ചകൾ

Kadakkal Devi Temple is one of the oldest Devi temples in Kerala. The temple is revered by many devotees who visit the temple from far off places. It is believed by the devotees of this temple that by revering the goddess one would get rid all troubles and will be guarded from all evils. It is also thought that the deity brings in wealth and happiness. Kadakkal Temple has three main temples that are situated at equal distances in three directions from the Temple Pond, Kadakkal Chira. These are the Devi Temple, Shiva Temple and Taliyil Temple. One of the main unique features of this temple that there is neither any idol is not established nor is a priest employed there. The Kadakkal Devi Temple is
associated with many legends. As per a legend Kadakal Devi arrived from Tamil Nadu along with her
sister. According to another story Panayappan, a tamil trader once exploited the Devi's family. Hence
Kadakkal Devi killed him. Later she settled down in Kadakkal Peedika that later became the sanctum
sanctorum of the Present Kadakkal Temple. The Nettur Kurup, had witnessed the whole incident. He was
instructed by the Devi to worship her and perform the regular offerings in the Peedika (a small kind of
Trade Shop made of wood). Kadakkal Thiruvathira Mahotsawam is one of the major festivals celebrated
at this temple. Thiruvathira Nakshathram (star) of the Malayalam month Kumbha is celebrated as the holy
birth day of the mother goddess Kadakkalamma.

The most important festival of the temple is the Kadakkal Thiruvathira. The Devi's birth date is believed to be on Thiruvathira of Kumbha which is celebrated as Thiruvathira Festival. The festival is celebrated as the regional Festival of Kadakkal. During the festival thousands of devotees visit Kadakkal to worship 'Devi'. On the first day several ladies gather together and offer Pongala to Devi at the temple ground. The festival begins with Kuthirayeduppu which is a grand procession followed by Kuthiyottam and pageants. The festival ends with Guruzi, a spiritual ritual. Pongala is celebrated on the first day of Thiruvathira where thousands of ladies offer Pongala to Devi at the Temple Ground. Pongala begins early morning on Makayiram which is the previous day Thiruvathira. Devotees from all over the state come for this particular Pongala Festival. Guruzi is celebrated on the last day of the Thiruvathira festival. This is a spiritual ritual that begins at midnight and continues till early morning.