Kanipura Sri Gopalakrishna Temple- Kerala

Address

Kanipura Sri Gopalakrishna Temple- Kumbla, Kasaragod district Kerala- 671321

Deity

Sri Gopalakrishna

Introduction

• Kanipura Sri Gopalakrishna Temple is an ancient temple located eight miles north of Kasaragod town in Kerala, India.
• The temple houses the Krishnashila Idol of Lord Bala Gopalkrishna, believed to have been presented by Lord Krishna to sage Kanva Maharshi in Dvapara Yuga.
• Historical records indicate that the temple was renovated in the 10th Century by King Jayasimha of the Kadamba Dynasty, whose capital was Kumbla.
• The temple has served as the site for the coronation of the Kumbla Rajas and holds sanctity across three Yugas: Treta Yuga, Dvapara Yuga, and Kali Yuga.
• Established by Maharshi Kanva, the priests of this temple belong to the Kota Brahmin community.

Puranic Significance

• The temple was originally the seat of the Raja of Kumbla, later moved to Maipady. Ruins of the fort at Kumbla testify to the area’s historical significance.
• The name Kanipura derives from Kanvapura, linked to the sage Kanva, who is credited with the Prathishta (consecration) of the Gopalkrishna Moorthi.
• Nearby place names, like Kannur (also known as Kanva Peetah) and Kanva Teertha, reflect the sage’s legacy in the region.
• According to legend, after installing the idol, the sage performed Adhishekam with Manthrodaka, which flowed out as a stream and became the Kumbha Hole River.
• The temple is located at the foot of a hill, flanked by the Kumbha Hole River, which joins the western sea nearby.
• The temple’s Abhisheka (coronation) rituals for the senior Raja of Kumbla traditionally took place here.

Festivals

• The annual festival at Kanipura Sri Gopalakrishna Temple lasts for five days, beginning with Dhwaja Arohanam on Makara Sankramana.
• The festival concludes with the idol being returned after being immersed in a pond three kilometers from the temple, followed by the lowering of the holy flag (Kodi).
• Known as “Kumble Bedi,” the festival features a display of fireworks and is attended by people from North Kerala and South Canara.
• A unique aspect of the festival is the Bali, where the idol is carried overhead by a poojary adorned with flowers and ornaments, following the rhythm of chendamelam and vadyam.
• The poojary performs a ceremonial procession around the temple, showcasing the vibrant cultural traditions associated with the temple.

Century/Period/Age

1000- Years old

Managed By

Travancore Devaswom Board.

Nearest Bus Station

Kumbla

Nearest Railway Station

Kumbla Station

Nearest Airport

Mangalore

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