Thirumoozhikulam Sri Lakshmana Swamy temple, Kerala

Address
Thirumoozhikulam Sri Lakshmana Swamy temple, Parakadavu, Moozhikulam, Ernakulam, Kerala – 683 579
Deity
Lakshmana Perumal, Amman: Mathura Vani Nachiyar
Introduction
- Location: Thirumoozhikkalam, Ernakulam District, Kerala; one of the 108 Vaishnava Divya Desams.
- Deity: Lord Thirumoozhikkalam (Sreesuktinathan), Goddess Maduraveni Nachiyar.
- Theertham: Kapila Theertham, Purna Nadi.
- Name Origin: Derived from Tirumolikkalam, linked to Lord Ammunivar’s scripture Sri Sukti, which teaches how to repent and follow the rules of Tirumala.
- Puranic Significance:
- Lord Krishna worshipped four idols: Raman, Lakshmanan, Bharathan, and Shatruganan.
- Idols were submerged and later found by Vakel Kaimal. Consecrated on the banks of Bharatpuzha River.
- Temples associated with the idols:
- Thirupparaiyar Ram Temple (Thrissur)
- Bharathan Temple (Irinjalakuda)
- Shatrugan Temple (Payamallu)
- Letsumanaperumal Temple (Thirumoozhikkalam)
- The temple is blessed with the title Letsumana Perumal.
- Haritha Maharishi received the scripture Sri Sukti from Lord Perumal, leading to the name Thirumozhikkalam.
- Beliefs:
- Thiruvonam Puja is performed for those seeking children. It is recommended to book a year in advance.
- Offerings of sandalwood are made.
- Special Features:
- Located on the banks of the Bharathapuzha River.
- Once a center of learning and art, where texts like Srisusikti were explored.
- Ramayana Story: Lakshmanan mistakenly thinks Bharathan is there to fight Rama, but later apologizes to Ithalattu Perumal, and both worshipped together.
- Moolavar has four hands (conch, wheel, story, lotus flower) and faces east.
- Separate shrine for Lord Shiva, showcasing Vedic Vaishnava-Shaiva unity.
- Festivals:
- Thiruvonam in Chithirai month, with flagging and anointing ceremonies.
- Ramayana Month (Adi) is celebrated across Kerala, drawing large crowds to the temple.
Century/Period/Age
1000-2000 years old
Managed By
Travancore Devasthanam Board
Nearest Bus Station
Thirumoozhikulam
Nearest Railway Station
Kuttipuram
Nearest Airport
Kochi