Kodungallur Temple, also known as the Bhagavathy Temple, is a prominent Hindu temple located in Kodungallur town in the Thrissur district of Kerala, India. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Bhadrakali, a form of the mother goddess Devi.
The history of Kodungallur Temple dates back to ancient times, and it is believed to be one of the 108 Shakti Peethas, or holy shrines of the mother goddess Devi, as mentioned in Hindu mythology. According to legend, the temple was built by the Cheran king, Cheran Chenguttuvan, in the 7th century. It is also said that the temple was visited by Adi Shankaracharya, the renowned Hindu philosopher and saint, in the 8th century.
The temple has undergone several renovations and modifications over the years, with the current structure dating back to the 16th century. The temple’s architecture reflects the traditional Kerala style of temple construction, with a gopuram (tower) at the entrance and a square-shaped sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha) with a copper-plated roof.
The presiding deity of the temple is Bhadrakali, who is worshipped in three forms – Maha Saraswati, Maha Lakshmi, and Maha Kali. The temple also has shrines dedicated to other deities such as Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesh, and Lord Ayyappa. The temple complex also includes a sacred pond, called Kulipini Theertham, where devotees take a dip to purify themselves before entering the temple.
The Kodungallur Bharani festival, which is celebrated annually in the month of Kumbham (February/March), is one of the major events at the temple. The festival is known for its unique rituals, which include the symbolic sacrifice of cocks and the frenzied dancing of devotees to the beats of traditional percussion instruments.
The temple is also associated with several historical and cultural traditions. The legendary Cheraman Perumal, believed to be the first Indian ruler to convert to Islam, is said to have gifted a golden lamp to the temple. The temple is also said to have been a center of learning, with scholars from different parts of India and abroad visiting the temple to study and exchange knowledge.
In recent times, the temple has gained wider recognition and popularity, attracting devotees and tourists from all over the world. The temple’s serene ambiance, beautiful architecture, and rich cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the spiritual and cultural aspects of Kerala.
