Thiruvanchikulam Sri Mahadeva Temple, Kerala

Address

Thiruvanchikulam Sri Mahadeva Temple, Kodungallur- Ernakulam, Highway, Kottapuram, Kodungallur, Kerala 680664

Deity

Mahadeva Easwar Amman: Umai Ammai

Introduction

Thiruvanchikulam Siva Temple (medieval Thiruvanchaikkalam Temple is situated in Kodungallur in Thrissur district in the South Indian state of Kerala in India. Constructed in the Kerala style of architecture, the temple is believed to have been built during the Chera period in the 8th century. Shiva is worshipped as Mahadeva and his consort Parvathi as Umadevi. The presiding deity is revered in the 7th century Tamil Saiva canonical work, the Tevaram, written by Tamil saint poets known as the Nayanmars and classified as Paadal Petra Sthalam, one of the 276 temples that find mention in the canon. It is the only temple in Kerala in the list. As per Periyapuranam, Sundara Murthi Nayanar, one of the four great saints in Tamil Shivism ascended to heaven from this place.

Puranic Significance

Only Thevaram Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam in Kerala:
This temple is the only Shiva temple in Kerala praised in the Thevaram hymns, making it highly significant in Shaivism.
Royal Connection:
- Shiva is the family deity of the Cochin Royal Family (Perumpadapu Swaroopam).
- The temple was the official deity of the imperial Chera Empire, and the national anthem of Travancore, “Vanchi Bhumi,” refers to this temple.
Sundara Murthi Nayanar & Cheraman Perumal Nayanar:
- The temple is mentioned in the Thevaram hymns sung by Sundara Murthi Nayanar (Sundarar), one of the four great Saiva Acharyas.
- It is believed that Sundara Murthi Nayanar ascended to Kailash from here on a white elephant sent by Lord Shiva, followed by Cheraman Perumal Nayanar on horseback.
- The Padhigam (hymn) he sang on his way was sent back to Thiruvanchikulam at his request.
Association with Chidambaram Temple:
- This temple has a strong historical and spiritual connection to the Chidambaram Nataraja Temple in Tamil Nadu.

Architectural & Cultural Highlights

Mural Paintings:
- The temple is renowned for its ancient and well-preserved mural paintings.
Protected Monument:
- Due to its historical significance, the temple is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Association with Kulasekhara Dynasty & Mahodayapuram

The capital city of the Kulasekhara Dynasty, Mahodayapuram, was built around this temple.
The city had high fortifications, extensive pathways, and palaces, making it an important center during the Chera rule.

Destruction & Reconstruction

The temple was attacked and damaged during Tipu Sultan’s invasion of Kerala.
- The copper roofing, gold, and jewels were looted by Tipu’s army.
- Tipu’s Muslim soldiers fled after the arrival of the Travancore Army led by Dalawa Keshavadas Pillai.
The temple was rebuilt by Paliath Achan of Kochi (Perumpadappu Swaroopam), restoring its grandeur.

Beliefs

The Dhambathi Puja (puja for couples) performed in the temple in evenings, is considered very important. Then follows the Palli Arai Puja which devotees attend seeking child boon. This darshan also helps reunion among couples separated for some reason or other. This puja is arranged at the request of the devotee with prior appointment and registration.

Special Features

The temple is built in Kerala style of architecture with entrance towers in all four sides. The sanctum occupies the center portion of the temple, which is fortified. The sanctum is approached through a flagstaff, which is axial to the entrance tower and the sanctum. The flagstaff has images of Asthavidyesavara. The presiding deity is in the form of lingam. The image of Narasimha is sculpted on the vimana. The images of Sundarar and Ceramanperuman are maintained at Bhagavathi temple and brought to the temple during Svati festival during July – August. There are two temple tanks in the temple, located in the second precinct.Lord Mahadeva was the family deity of Chola kings. The idol was brought from Chidambaram and installed here in the year 1801, according to epigraphic details. There is a shrine where Sundarar and Cheraman grace together. There are more than 25 deities around the prakara. This is the only temple in Kerala that has a long round prakara