Kozhikode Pisharikavu Durga devi Temple , Kerala

Address

Kozhikode Pisharikavu Durga devi Temple Pishaarikavu Rd, Anakkulam, Kozhikode, Kerala 673305

Deity

Amman: Durga devi

Introduction

• Location: Kollam, Koyilandy, Kozhikode district, North Malabar region, Kerala, India.
• Deity: The temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali (Durga Devi).
• Management: The temple is maintained by the Malabar Devasvom Board.
• Devotees: A large number of devotees visit the temple regularly to offer their prayers.
• Festival: The temple’s annual festival is celebrated during the Malayalam month of Meenam, and it lasts for eight days.

Puranic Significance

• Origin of the Temple: According to legend, the temple’s history is linked to the Ettuveettil family, a wealthy group of diamond merchants who migrated to the village of Kollam near Koyilandy. A family member performed intense penance (tapas) to please Goddess Bhadrakali (Porkali Devi).
• The Sword Nandhakam: The goddess appeared to the devotee in a dream and bestowed upon him a special sword called Nandhakam, instructing him to worship her in the form of the sword. By following the goddess’ command, the family became prosperous.
• Migration and Establishment: The family purchased land from the Zamorin (Samoothiri) of Kozhikode, settled in the region, and built the Pisharikavu Temple to continue the worship of the Nandhakam sword. This temple became a central place of worship for the eight merchant families who migrated from the south.
• Merchant Families: The eight families are known as Kiziyil, Vazhayil, Elayedathu, Echarathil, Punathil, Nanothu, Mundakkal, and Erothu. They were once referred to as “vyapari” (merchants), which later became “Ravari” in colloquial usage. This community still has a significant role in the temple’s rituals and festivals.

Beliefs

• Nandhakam Sword: The Nandhakam sword remains a sacred symbol of Pisharikavu Devi. Devotees believe that if they pray with pure devotion, the goddess will fulfill their wishes, and her blessings will remain with them regardless of their location.
• Divine Assurance: The goddess’ promise to her devotees is that she will always protect and rescue those who sincerely believe in her, no matter where they are.

Festivals

1. Annual Festival (Meenam Month):
   • Duration: Celebrated over 8 days in the Malayalam month of Meenam.
   • 7th Day: Celebrated as Valiya Vilaku.
   • 8th Day (Kaliyattom): The festival’s climax, when the Nandhakam sword is carried in a grand procession around the temple, mounted on a fully decorated female elephant. Traditional Kerala art forms are also performed during this time.
2. Navaratri: The temple celebrates Navaratri with great enthusiasm, and various offerings and rituals are conducted during the festival.

Special Rituals

• Kaliyattam: This is a special festival where the descendants of the original eight merchant families (Ravari community) have unique privileges in conducting the rituals.

Century/Period/Age

1000-2000 Years old

Managed By

Malabar Devaswom Board.

Nearest Bus Station

Koyilandy

Nearest Railway Station

Koyilandy

Nearest Airport

Kozhikode

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