Thirukkadithanam Sri Amrutha Narayanaperumal Temple, Kerala

Address

Thirukkadithanam Sri Amrutha Narayanaperumal Temple, Thrikodithanam,Kunnamthanam Road, Changanassery, Kerala 686105

Deity

Amrutha Narayan, Amman: Karpagam Valli

Introduction

• Thrikodithanam Mahavishnu Temple is one of the ancient Pancha Pandava temples in Kerala.
• It is specifically associated with Sahadeva, the youngest of the five Pandavas.
• Located in Thrikodithanam, Kottayam district, Kerala, the temple is one of the 108 Celestial Abodes of Lord Vishnu.
• The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is believed to receive new divine energy once every 60 years.
• At the end of Kali Yuga, it is said that Ithala Perumal will turn into light and ascend to the sky.
• Separate shrines exist for Narasimha, Krishna, and Chandran at this temple.
• The Krishna shrine was constructed by Sahadeva, hence the temple is known as “Sahadevan-built site” in the region.
• A historical inscription on the temple walls dates back to the early Tamil script era.
• A book in the Kashmiri language mentions this temple as one of the three most liberating Krishna temples in India.
• Nammazhvar has sung about this temple in 11 hymns, highlighting its significance.
• Thrikodithanam is also known as Thirukkadithanam and is a Vaishnava Divya Desam.
• The temple is situated along the Kottayam–Thiruvalla road in Kerala.

Puranic Significance

• The name “Kadi” (bite) is derived from the word “clock”, referring to time.
• In 108 Vaishnava Divya Desams, the word “Kadi” is found in three places:
  1. Thirukkadigai (Cholingapuram)
  2. Kandamennum Kadinagar
  3. Thirukkadithanam
• It is believed that performing pure austerities for just one hour (24 minutes) in these places grants divine blessings and liberation.
• Rukmangathan, a king of the Solar Dynasty, spent most of his time at this temple.
• He strictly observed Ekadasi fasting, leading to his attainment of divine yoga.
• The temple’s history states that any devotee who observes Ekadasi fasting and prays here will attain divine status, just like Rukmangathan.
• The temple was dedicated by Sahadeva, who initially struggled to find an idol for consecration.
• In his sorrow, Sahadeva attempted self-immolation, but Perumal’s idol miraculously appeared, giving him relief.
• Due to this divine event, the deity here is known as “Arputha Narayanan” (The Wonderful Narayana).
• Nammazhvar composed Mangalasasana hymns praising this temple.

Beliefs

• Devotees visit this temple for:
  • Career growth (for those struggling to find or advance in jobs).
  • Removal of obstacles in life, despite performing good deeds.
  • Relief from anxiety and mental distress.
  • Victory and Moksha (liberation) in their pursuits.
• It is believed that Perumal and His consort bless devotees with divine marriages.

Special Features

• Separate shrines for Narasimha and Krishna.
• Rukmangathan, the king of the Solar Dynasty, practiced strict Ekadasi fasting at this temple.
• Devotees who observe Ekadasi fasting here receive divine blessings.

Festivals

• Karthigai Deepam
• 10-day festival in the Tamil month of Vrischikam (November-December)
• Narasimha Jayanthi
• Ekadasi Festival (believed to grant divine status to devotees).

Century/Period/Age

1000-2000 years old

Managed By

Travancore Devasthanam Board

Nearest Bus Station

Thirukkadithanam

Nearest Railway Station

Chenganur

Nearest Airport

Kochi

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