Tali Shiva Temple- Kerala

Address

Tali Shiva Temple- Tali Temple road, Kozhikode district Palayam, Kerala- 673002 Phone: 0495 270 3610

Deity

Shiva

Introduction

• Name: Tali Shiva Temple (Tali Mahakshetram)
• Location: Kozhikode City, Kerala, India
• Historical Background: Constructed in the 14th Century AD by the Zamorin of Calicut, the Tali Temple is one of the oldest temples in Kozhikode. Unique for its worship of Lord Shiva in the form of Uma Maheshwara, representing the union of Shiva and his consort, Goddess Uma (Parvati).

Puranic Significance

• Legendary Origins: While officially built in the 14th century, local legends suggest the temple dates back to the Dwapara Yuga, allegedly constructed by Lord Parashurama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
• Historical Developments: The temple was initially a simple structure managed by approximately 50 Kerala Namboodhri families. It is believed that the Zamorin rulers took control after a violent takeover, leading to the temple’s rise in prominence around 15 centuries ago.
• Name Evolution: Originally known as Sailabdheswara, or the Lord of the Mountain and Sea, the temple underwent several changes, including a relocation within the palace complex, ultimately shaping its present form. The royal family’s descendants continue to oversee the temple’s management.

Special Features

• Architectural Significance: The temple is notable for its architectural style, combining laterite stone and wood, and adorned with brass decorations. It is enclosed by massive compound walls reminiscent of an elephant’s belly.
• Key Structures:
  • Dwajasthambam: The majestic flag post believed to connect heaven and earth.
  • Anakottil: The large flag staff platform designated for elephants.
  • Deepasthambams: Pillars for traditional lamps.
  • The temple features multiple shrines, including the Sivakshetram, Nalambalam, and Krishnakshetram.
  • The main sanctum, shaped like a chariot, houses a Shiva Lingam, considered one of the Jyothir Lingams.
  • The inner circumambulatory passage displays images of Uma Maheshwara, Tali Ganapathi, Thevarathil Ganapathy, and Thrumandhakunnu Bhagavathy.
  • The outer passage includes deities such as Lord Ayyappa, Thevarathil Bhagavathy, and Lord Naga.
  • A separate shrine for Lord Vishnu features its own flagstaff, housing the idol of Sreevalayanad Bhagavati and a small temple for Narasimha Moorthy.
• Cultural Hub: Tali Temple has served as a center for scholarly pursuits. The Revathi Pattathanam, a seven-day cultural festival, originated here, drawing scholars and philosophers for debates on scriptures, philosophy, and grammatical works during the 15th and 16th centuries. This event continues today, typically celebrated in October or November.

Festivals

• Revathi Pattathanam: The temple’s major annual festival, a cultural and intellectual event lasting seven days, celebrated in the Malayalam month of Thulam (mid-October to mid-November). This festival highlights the temple’s rich cultural heritage and its role as a center for learning and intellectual discourse.

Century/Period/Age

14th Century AD

Managed By

Travancore Devaswom Board.

Nearest Bus Station

Tali

Nearest Railway Station

Kozhikode Junction

Nearest Airport

Kozhikode

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