Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple

The Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple is one of the largest Bhagavathy temples in Kerala, situated near the famous Vadakkunnathan temple in Thrissur district. The main deity worshipped here is Devi Vaishnavy, an incarnation of Goddess Durga.

Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple History:

Origins: Legend associates the temple’s origin with a devotee from the Kuruppal Tharavad family who visited the Thirumandhamkunnu Bhagavathy Temple regularly. He wished to stop his visits due to old age and sought permission from the Goddess through prayers. It’s believed the Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple enshrines the same deity.

The Idol: The original idol of Paramekkavu Bhagavathy was a wooden sculpture (daru silpa). In 1997, due to wear and tear, it was replaced with a new eight-armed wooden idol in a seated posture.

Thrissur Pooram Connection: The temple plays a central role in the famed Thrissur Pooram, Kerala’s biggest temple festival. The king, Sakthan Thampuran, is credited with dividing the participants into two groups: “Paramekkavu side” and “Thiruvambady side”. Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple leads the “Paramekkavu side,” rivaling the Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple just 500 meters away.

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Legend of Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple:

A Devotee’s Farewell: A senior member (Karnavar) of the Kuruppal Nair family would visit the Thirumandhamkunnu Bhagavathy Temple regularly to pay his respects. Due to old age, he decided to make one final visit and inform the Goddess of his inability to continue the visits.

The Stuck Umbrella: After his prayers and farewell at Thirumandhamkunnu, the Karnavar stopped to rest under a tree on his way back. When he tried to pick up his palm leaf umbrella, it wouldn’t budge! A holy man (Deva prasna) consulted revealed the presence of Bhagavathy in the umbrella.

The New Abode: The Karnavar understood that the Goddess wished to accompany him. He arranged for her worship there. Later, when the Vadakkumnathan Temple nearby was expanded, the presence of the Bhagavathy was moved to its current location under a Paro tree.

Paro to Paramekkavu: Because of the initial consecration under the Paro tree (Paro kavu in Malayalam), the Bhagavathy came to be known as Parokkavu Bhagavathy, eventually transforming into Paramekkavu Bhagavathy over time.

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Significance of Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple:

Religious Importance:

• Dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy: Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple is one of the largest Bhagavathy temples in Kerala, enshrining a form of Durga, a powerful Hindu deity associated with protection and strength.
• Place of Worship: It serves as a major pilgrimage site for devotees seeking blessings and participating in rituals.

Cultural Hub:

• Thrissur Pooram: The temple plays a central role in Thrissur Pooram, Kerala’s biggest temple festival. It leads one of the two rival groups (Paramekkavu side) known for their spectacular processions and vibrant competition.
• Architectural Style: The temple’s architecture itself is a point of interest, with traditional Kerala features.

Historical Legacy:

• Ancient Origins: Believed to be over 1000 years old, the Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple is interwoven with the history of Thrissur and Kerala.
• Local Legend: The unique story of the temple’s origin adds to its cultural significance.

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Myths of Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple:

The Unwilling Departure: The core legend tells the story of the devoted follower and the arrival of the Goddess Bhagavathy. One could consider the idea of a deity refusing to let a devotee leave their service as a mythological element. In some Hindu traditions, the deep devotion of a follower is seen as a powerful force that can influence the divine.

Kodungallor Bhagavathy Connection: Another legend suggests the presence of a “mekkavu” (sacred grove) within the Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple grounds, enshrining the Kodungallor Bhagavathy. This hints at a possible connection to another powerful Bhagavathy deity, but details are scarce.

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Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple Timing & Rituals:

The temple is open from 4:30 AM to 8:30 PM on all days of the week.

Rituals at Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple

Several daily rituals are performed at the Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple. Here’s a general overview:

• Nirmalyam: This is the cleaning ritual performed in the morning. The idol of the Goddess is adorned with flowers the previous day, and these floral offerings are removed during Nirmalyam.
• Abhishekam: This is a holy bath ceremony where the idol is anointed with various substances like milk,sandalwood paste, and panchamritha (a mixture of five ingredients).
• Ushant: This refers to offerings made to the Goddess, which can include food items, flowers, and prayers.
• Deeparadhana: This is the aarti ceremony, where lamps with oil and wicks are offered before the deity.
• Seeveli: This is the elaborate procession that circles the Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple premises as part of the worship rituals.

Paramekkavu Temple Offerings:

Common Offerings:

• Nirapara: Offering of sacred water.
• Pushpanjali: Offering of flowers.
• Deeparadhana: Offering of lamps with oil or ghee.
• Archanas: Chanting of mantras dedicated to the deity.
• Prasadam: Offering of food, later distributed as blessings.

Specific Pujas (may require booking in advance):

• Aayush Homam: For longevity and well-being.
• Ashta Aiswarya Homam: For attaining the eight forms of wealth.
• Bhadrakali Sahasra Nama Archana: Chanting 1000 names of Bhadrakali, a fierce aspect of Bhagavathy.
• Chuttu Vilakku Deeparadhana: Lighting of special lamps around the sanctum.
• Dhanwanthari Sooktharchana: Chanting hymns to Dhanwanthari, the god of Ayurveda, for good health.
• Guruthi Puja: Offered to departed ancestors.
• Kadum Payasam: Offering of sweet porridge made with rice and jaggery.
• Lalitha Sahasra Nama Archana: Chanting 1000 names of Lalitha, another form of Durga.
• Mrithyunjaya Homam: For appeasing Lord Shiva and seeking blessings for good health.

Festival Offerings:

• During Thrissur Pooram, specific elaborate pujas and offerings are made related to the festival rituals.

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Places to visit near Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple:

1. Vadakkunnathan Temple: This ancient Hindu temple is just a short distance from Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple. It’s one of the largest and oldest Shiva temples in Kerala, known for its classical Kerala architectural style.
2. Thrissur Zoo and State Museum: Located about 2 kilometers from the temple, this zoo is home to a variety of animals and also features a natural history museum.
3. Thrissur Pooram Exhibition Ground: If you’re lucky enough to visit during the Thrissur Pooram festival season, this ground comes alive with festivities, including elephant processions, fireworks, and cultural events.
4. Shakthan Thampuran Palace: This palace, located around 2.5 kilometers from the temple, is a cultural and historical landmark of Thrissur. It offers insights into the royal history of the region.
5. Peechi Dam: Situated about 20 kilometers from Thrissur, Peechi Dam is a serene spot surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a great place for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
6. Athirappilly Waterfalls: While a bit farther away (about 60 kilometers), Athirappilly Waterfalls is one of the largest waterfalls in Kerala and a breathtaking natural wonder worth the trip.
7. Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple: Around 29 kilometers from Thrissur, this famous temple dedicated to Lord Krishna is another significant pilgrimage site in Kerala.

FAQ:

History and Significance

• Q: How old is Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple?
  • A: The temple is believed to be over 1,000 years old, making it one of Kerala’s most ancient temples.
• Q: What is the significance of the temple?
  • A: Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple holds importance for several reasons:
    • It’s dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy, a powerful deity.
    • It’s a major pilgrimage site and center of worship.
    • It plays a central role in Thrissur Pooram, Kerala’s largest temple festival.
    • It boasts traditional Kerala architecture and a rich history.
• Q: What is the legend behind the temple?
  • A: The legend tells the story of a devoted follower who wished to take farewell from the Goddess Bhagavathy. The Goddess, unwilling to depart, chose to accompany him, leading to the establishment of the temple.

Visiting the Temple

• Q: Is there an entrance fee?
  • A: No, entry to the temple complex is free. However, specific rituals or offerings may require a donation.
• What should I wear when visiting?
  • A: Dress modestly out of respect. Opt for traditional Indian attire like sarees, long skirts, or dhotis for men and women. Cover your shoulders and knees, and remove shoes before entering.
• Q: When is the best time to visit?
  • A: The temple is open throughout the year, but attending during Thrissur Pooram (usually in May) offers a unique cultural experience. Evenings are generally considered a good time for a spiritual experience during regular pujas (prayers).

How to reach Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple:

1. By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), located approximately 54 kilometers away from Thrissur. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use public transportation to reach the temple.
2. By Train: Thrissur Railway Station is well-connected to major cities in India. Once you arrive at the station, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or a local bus to reach Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple, which is around 2 kilometers away.
3. By Bus: Thrissur has a well-developed bus network connecting it to various cities and towns in Kerala and neighboring states. You can take a bus to Thrissur KSRTC Bus Stand and then hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or walk to the temple, which is located about 1.5 to 2 kilometers away.
4. By Car: If you’re traveling by car, you can use GPS navigation to drive to Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple. Thrissur is well-connected by road to major cities in Kerala and nearby states. Parking facilities may be available near the temple.

Google Maps: