Varakkal Sri Durga Devi Temple- Kerala

Address

Varakkal Sri Durga Devi Temple- Varakkal Temple Rd, West Hill, Kozhikode, Kerala 673005 Phone: 0495 238 3134

Deity

Amman: Sri Durga Devi

Introduction

• Name: Varakkal Devi Temple
• Location: Kozhikode District, Kerala, India.
• Main Deity: Durga Devi (Bhagawathy).
• Sub-Deities: Includes Ganapati, Dakshinamoorthy, and Sree Ayyappan.
• Historical Significance: Varakkal Devi Temple is recognized as the 108th and last Devi temple built by Sree Parasurama, the legendary founder of Kerala. According to tradition, he ploughed this area to invoke the goddess’s presence.
• Main Festival: The most significant festival is Vavu Bali, during which thousands gather to perform ancestral obsequies. Notably, the sea remains calm on this day, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere.

Puranic Significance

• Legend: The legend narrates that during his penance in Treta Yuga, Parasurama meditated until Durga Devi appeared and promised to be present on the Chothi star day and Vavu (full moon day) to bless her devotees. Following this revelation, Parasurama constructed the temple.
• Historical Development: Initially, the temple had regular rituals; however, due to financial constraints, these practices were halted. This negligence led to a decline in the shrine’s significance. The rulers known as the Perumallors intervened to restore daily rituals, elevating the temple’s status to a Mahakshetra (big temple). Later, the Zamorins took over the temple, renovating and modifying it to its current form. The temple continues to be managed by the Zamorin family today.

Special Features

• Main Festivals:
  • Vavu Bali: This festival attracts large crowds as devotees perform Bali Tharpanam on Varakkal beach during Thulam Vavu.
  • Navaratri: Celebrated with great enthusiasm, featuring various rituals.
• Key Rituals and Offerings:
  • Mahanivedam (a special offering).
  • Pushpanjali, Padivilaku, Naivilakku (offerings of light), Thrikalpooja, Swayamvara Pushpanjali, Santhana Gopala Pooja, Ganapathy Homam, and Thila Homam.
• Celebrations: Additional exhibitions and festivities are organized on Navaratri day, enhancing the temple’s vibrant atmosphere.

Century/Period/Age

1000- Years old

Managed By

Travancore Devaswom Board.

Nearest Bus Station

Kozhikode west hills

Nearest Railway Station

Kozhikode

Nearest Airport

Kozhikode

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