Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple

The Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and Bhadrakali, located in the city of Thrissur, Kerala, India. It is one of the most prominent temples in the city and is known for its association with the Thrissur Pooram, a seven-day long festival that is considered one of the largest temple festivals in Kerala.

Thiruvambadi Temple History:

Original Location: The temple’s origins lie in Edakkalathur, a village 20 kilometers away. It was known as Thiruvambadi then as well and enshrined Lord Krishna as the main deity, along with other gods like Bhadrakali, Sastha etc.

Flight for Safety: Legends say that due to communal violence, villagers fearing for the idol’s safety, secretly transported it to Thrissur. They entrusted it to a pious couple at Kachanappilly Illam, close to the present temple’s location.

A New Home: The childless couple lovingly cared for the idol, considering it their own. Their devotion is said to have pleased Lord Krishna, who took on a unique posture with a flute in one hand and the other outstretched, as if to accept their offerings.

Temple Construction: The temple around the idol was likely built in the 16th century. The current structure, however, is attributed to Raja Rama Varma or Sakthan Thampuran, a ruler of Kochi, in the 18th century. The temple retains the traditional Kerala architectural style.

Dual Deities: Today, the main attraction is the idol of Unnikrishnan, the child form of Lord Krishna. Interestingly, the temple also houses Goddess Bhadrakali, who is given equal importance.

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Legend of Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple:

Origin in Edakkalathur: The legend says the idol originally resided in a temple in Edakkalathur, about 15 kilometers away. A local administrator, the Edakkalathur Moose, oversaw the temple.

Interfaith Love and Unrest: During the 16th century, a young woman from the Moose family fell in love with someone from a different faith. This interfaith relationship caused tension and fears of communal conflict among the villagers.

Saving the Idol: To protect the idol from the potential violence, some villagers decided to take it to Thrissur. They entrusted it to a pious childless couple at Kandanathu Mana (Kachanappilli Mana).

A Loving Home: The couple welcomed the idol into their home, treating it like their own child. Their devotion is said to have touched Lord Krishna. The idol’s pose is believed to have changed during this time, with one hand holding a flute and the other outstretched, perhaps ready to accept butter offerings, a favorite of Krishna as a child.

Temple Origins: Eventually, the idol and its care were transferred from the couple to the public, leading to the establishment of the Thiruvambadi Temple where devotees can worship Lord Krishna even today.

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Significance of Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple:

Lord Krishna Devotion: Dedicated to Lord Krishna as a child (Unnikrishnan), the temple is a center for devotees seeking blessings and spiritual solace.

Thrissur Pooram: This temple is one of the two main contenders in the Thrissur Pooram, a vibrant and globally renowned temple festival. The spectacular “Madathil Varavu” procession marking the start of Pooram originates here.

Historical Importance: Though relatively small, the temple’s origins go back centuries. Legend suggests it was relocated to Thrissur to safeguard the idol.

Dual Deities: Unlike many Krishna temples, Thiruvambadi also enshrines Bhadrakali, a form of Durga, with equal importance. This unique combination attracts devotees seeking blessings from both deities.

Tantric Practices: The temple follows meticulous rituals outlined in Tantric texts, elevating its spiritual significance.

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Myths of Thiruvambadi Temple:

The Traveling Idol: Legend says the idol of Lord Krishna originally resided in a different town called Edakkalathur, also known as Thiruvambady at the time. When faced with communal violence, devotees fearing for the idol’s safety, secretly transported it to Thrissur. They entrusted it to a pious childless couple at Kachanappilly Illam.

The Devoted Couple: The couple lovingly cared for the idol, treating it like their own child. Their devotion is said to have impressed Lord Krishna. The idol miraculously changed posture, holding a flute in one hand and extending the other, as if accepting butter offerings the couple gave.

Temple’s Establishment: The temple eventually grew around this cherished idol. The childless couple, overwhelmed by the divine experience, are believed to have later handed over the idol’s care to the public, leading to the establishment of the present-day Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple.

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Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple Timing & Rituals:

Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple Timings

• Morning: 4:30 AM to 12:00 PM
• Evening: 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM

Daily Routine

• 4:00 AM: Conch is blown to mark the beginning of the day.
• 4:30 AM: Sanctums are opened.
• 5:00 AM: Vakacharthu (holy oil bath) of Lord Krishna is performed.
• 6:00 AM: Usha Pooja (early morning puja) is performed.
• 7:00 AM: Usha pooja culminates with Seeveli (procession of the idol around the temple).
• 12:00 PM: Temple closes for the morning.
• 4:30 PM: Temple opens in the evening.
• 6:15 PM to 7:00 PM: Arathi (evening puja) is performed.
• 8:00 PM: Athazha Pooja (night puja) is performed.
• 8:30 PM: Seeveli is performed.
• 9:00 PM: Thrippuka (incense offering) is performed.
• 9:30 PM: Temple closes for the night.

Special Timings

• Thrissur Pooram: The temple is open 24 hours a day during the Thrissur Pooram festival.

Rituals

The following are some of the important rituals performed at the Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple:

• Abhishekam: This is a ritual bath of the idol with various liquids, such as milk, ghee, honey, and panchamrita (a mixture of five sacred substances).
• Alankaram: This is the decoration of the idol with flowers, ornaments, and other items.
• Arathi: This is the waving of a lighted camphor lamp before the idol.
• Naivedyam: This is the offering of food to the idol.
• Prasadam: This is the consecrated food that is distributed to devotees after the puja.

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Places to visit near Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple:

1. Vadakkunnathan Temple: This ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located in Thrissur city itself, not far from Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple. It’s known for its stunning architecture and religious significance.
2. Thrissur Zoo: Located just a short distance away from the temple, Thrissur Zoo is home to a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and various species of birds. It’s a great place to visit, especially if you’re traveling with family.
3. Peechi Dam: About 20 kilometers from Thrissur, Peechi Dam is a picturesque spot surrounded by lush greenery. The dam site also offers boating facilities, making it a popular picnic spot.
4. Athirappilly Waterfalls: One of the largest waterfalls in Kerala, Athirappilly is located around 60 kilometers from Thrissur. The majestic beauty of the waterfall and the surrounding rainforest makes it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
5. Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple: Another famous Krishna temple, Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple, is located about 27 kilometers from Thrissur. It’s one of the most important pilgrimage centers in Kerala and attracts thousands of devotees every year.
6. Vilangan Kunnu (Hill): This scenic hilltop offers panoramic views of Thrissur city and is a popular spot for recreational activities like picnics and evening walks.
7. Cheraman Juma Mosque: Located in Kodungallur, about 30 kilometers from Thrissur, this mosque is believed to be one of the oldest mosques in India. It has historical significance and architectural beauty.

FAQ:

About the Temple

• What is the Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple?

The Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna in his infant form. It’s located in the heart of Thrissur city, Kerala, India. The temple is famous for its participation in the Thrissur Pooram festival, one of Kerala’s grandest temple festivals.

• Where is the temple situated?

The Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple is situated in the heart of Thrissur city, Kerala, close to the Vadakunnathan temple and Swaraj Round. It’s also conveniently located near the Thrissur railway station and bus stand.

Visiting the Temple

• What are the temple timings?

The temple is open for devotees from 5.30 AM to 11 AM and from 5 PM to 8 PM.

• Is there a dress code?

Yes, the temple upholds a traditional dress code. Men are required to wear dhoti or mundu, and boys can wear shorts. Women should wear sarees, long skirts, or salwar kameez. Avoid wearing modern western casual wear.

• What festivals are celebrated here?

The major festival is the Thrissur Pooram, a spectacular seven-day event. Other festivals include Navarathri, Sri Krishna Jayanthi, Vaikunda Ekadasi, Thiru Utsava, Sahasrakalasam, and Kuchela Dinam.

• Can I take photographs inside the temple?

Photography may be restricted inside the temple premises. It’s advisable to check with the temple authorities before taking any pictures.

Temple Deities and History

• Who is the presiding deity?

The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Krishna as a child, referred to as Unnikrishnan. There’s also a shrine dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy to the left of Lord Krishna.

• Are there other deities worshipped in the temple?

Yes, Lord Ganesha and Dharmasastha are housed within the temple complex. Other deities worshipped outside the temple include Kukshi Ayyapa, Manikanda, Ghandakarna, Rakteshwari, and Bhairava.

• What is the history of the temple?

Legend has it that the idol of Lord Krishna originally resided in another town called Edakkalathur, which also had a temple named Thiruvambadi. Due to communal violence, the idol was brought to its current location in Thrissur for safekeeping.

• Is the temple more than just a place of worship?

The Thiruvambadi Temple is a cultural hub where classical arts, religious education, and charity activities flourish. It’s a place for devotees to seek blessings and experience the tranquility of the sacred space.

How to reach Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple:

1. By Air: The nearest airport to Thrissur is Cochin International Airport, located about 55 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Thrissur. Once in Thrissur, you can take local transportation like buses or auto-rickshaws to reach Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple.
2. By Train: Thrissur Railway Station is well-connected to major cities in India. Many trains pass through Thrissur, making it easily accessible by rail. From Thrissur Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple, which is located just a few kilometers away from the station.
3. By Bus: Thrissur is well-connected by road to various cities in Kerala and neighboring states. There are regular bus services from cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, and Bangalore to Thrissur. Once you reach Thrissur bus station, you can take a local bus or hire an auto-rickshaw to reach Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple.
4. By Car: If you’re traveling by car, Thrissur is easily accessible via the National Highway 544 (NH 544) which connects it to major cities like Kochi, Coimbatore, and Bangalore. Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple is located within Thrissur city, and you can use GPS or ask locals for directions once you reach the city.

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