Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple, located in Ettumanoor, a town in the Kottayam district of Kerala, The Temple lies between the districts of Ernakulam and Kottayam in Kerala, approximately 12 km from Kottayam and 54 km from Ernakulam. It is well-connected, with nearby towns such as Kidangoor, Pala, and Kaduthuruthy providing convenient access.
There are many legends and local stories about the origin of the temple, but there is a lack of clear historical records. Even though it is believed to be a powerful installation (Kharaprathishta), many believe it is one of the 108 Shiva temples established by Parashurama in Kerala. The temple covers more than four acres and faces west.
It is one of the most renowned and revered Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. With a rich history and intricate legends surrounding its origin, this temple continues to be a spiritual destination for thousands of devotees and an architectural marvel of the region. The temple is not only a sacred place of worship but also a vibrant cultural center, showcasing the deep religious significance of Lord Shiva in Kerala. Devotees believe that visiting this temple can help remove all kinds of troubles and sufferings.
Main Deity
Lord Shiva (In the morning, he is worshipped as Aghora Moorthy, at noon as Sharabha Moorthy, and in the evening as Ardhanareeshwara).
Sub Deity
Ganapathi , Dakshinamoorthy (a form of Shiva as a teacher), Durga, Sastha (Lord Ayyappa), serpent gods (like Vasuki), and Yakshiyamma (a female spirit deity).
The temple complex also houses a distinct shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna, enhancing its religious and cultural importance.
1. Historical Significance
Ettumanoor gets its name from different legends. One says it comes from “Maan Ooru”, meaning “place of deer” in Malayalam. Another version links it to “Ettu Mana Ooru”, or “land of eight Brahmin families” who were the original custodians of the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple. A third belief is that Lord Shiva appeared here in eight forms. Temple lore also says the Pandavas and sage Vyasa worshipped at this ancient shrine.
Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple was established after King Rajasekhara Varman saw Lord Shiva in his dream, who revealed his self-manifested form in Ettumanoor. The temple is also linked to Khara Maharshi, a sage cursed into a demon. After seeking redemption through penance, Shiva restored him to his original form. Grateful, Khara Maharshi built the temple in Shiva’s honor, symbolizing his spiritual redemption.
Legend
The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is said to have come into existence after King Rajasekhara Varman experienced a divine vision in which Lord Shiva appeared and guided him to a self-manifested form of Shiva in Ettumanoor. The name Ettumanoor is believed to derive from the words “Ettu” (eight) and “Manoor” (land), indicating that Lord Shiva appeared in eight different forms at this sacred site.
A central figure in the legend of the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is Khara Maharshi, a sage who was cursed and transformed into a demon due to his past wrongdoings. Seeking redemption, Khara performed rigorous penance and prayed for Lord Shiva’s forgiveness. Moved by his devotion, Shiva granted him a boon, returning him to his original sage form.
Impressed by his devotion, Shiva gifted him three Jyotirlingas As Khara was traveling through the skies carrying the lingams-(one in each hand and one held in his mouth)- he stopped to rest at Vaikom and placed one lingam in his right hand down. When he tried to lift it again, it wouldn’t move. Shiva’s divine voice said He wished to stay there .Grateful for his restoration, Khara Maharshi vowed to build a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Khara entrusted it to Sage Vyaghrapada and attained moksha. He then installed the other two lingams at Ettumanoor (left hand) and Kaduthuruthy (mouth).
It’s believed that visiting all three temples before noon brings great spiritual merit.
2. The Iconic Shiva Idol
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is the majestic idol of Lord Shiva. The idol is unique for its lifelike representation and is believed to be one of the finest examples of ancient craftsmanship. It is depicted as a four-armed Lord Shiva with various symbolic attributes, including a trident (trishul), a drum (damaru), a snake, and a symbolic flame (Agni), each representing a different aspect of the Lord’s divine power. The idol’s imposing presence draws devotees who come to seek blessings for health, wealth, and prosperity.
3. Stunning Temple Architecture
The architecture of Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is a blend of traditional Kerala style and intricate craftsmanship, making it one of the finest examples of temple architecture in the region. The temple is built with a large, open courtyard surrounded by wooden pillars and tiled roofs, characteristic of Kerala’s temple architecture. The intricate carvings on the walls of the temple, depicting various divine figures and scenes from Hindu mythology, are awe-inspiring and serve as a testament to the artistry of the period.
The temple is also home to a sacred “Sreekovil,” which houses the idol of Lord Shiva. The design of the Sreekovil is carefully constructed to provide devotees with a tranquil environment, ideal for prayer and meditation. Visitors often marvel at the symmetry and the spiritual energy that radiates from the structure.
4. Famous for its Arattu Festival
One of the major highlights of the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is its annual Arattu Festival, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm and grandeur. The festival is one of the most significant events in the temple’s calendar, attracting thousands of pilgrims and tourists from all over Kerala.
The main annual festival of the temple is a ten-day celebration held in the Malayalam month of Kumbham, ending with the Thiruvathira Araattu (holy bath of the deity). Among these days, the eighth day, known as Ezhunnallippu, and the ceremonial viewing at the Asthana Mandapam are the most grand and spectacular.
The festival marks the ceremonial bathing of the deity in the temple’s sacred waters and is celebrated with various cultural programs, including traditional music, dance, and the majestic procession of decorated elephants. The processions and rituals performed during Arattu are believed to bring blessings of health, prosperity, and divine protection to the devotees.
In addition, Shivaratri, also in the month of Kumbham, and Thiruvathira in the month of Dhanu, are also important occasions celebrated at the temple.
5. Religious Importance
Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is one of the 108 Shiva temples mentioned in the ancient text Shiva Purana, which speaks of Lord Shiva’s divine manifestations across the Indian subcontinent. The temple is also a part of the Siva Mala, a pilgrimage route of great significance to Shaivite devotees. The importance of Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple as a sacred site for worshipers is immense, and it has earned the reverence of countless devotees who seek divine intervention for problems ranging from health issues to family well-being.
The temple is also a vital center for the celebration of key Hindu festivals such as Maha Shivaratri and the annual Kumbha Mela, during which thousands of devotees gather to pay homage to Lord Shiva and participate in the sacred rituals.
6. Artistic and Cultural Legacy
Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is not just a place of worship, but also a cultural hub for the region. The temple is known for its rich artistic and cultural contributions, particularly in the fields of music, dance, and visual arts. The temple’s close association with the Ettumanoor Nritya mela and Sree Krishna Kirtan has cemented its reputation as a key cultural center in Kerala.
The walls of the temple are adorned with a variety of murals and paintings that depict scenes from Hindu mythology, including the famous Anandvalli and Shiva’s dance. These murals have become an integral part of the temple’s artistic heritage and continue to be a source of fascination for art lovers and historians.
7. Devotional Practices and Rituals
The rituals and practices at Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple are deeply rooted in tradition and devotion. The temple adheres to the ancient customs of the Namboothiri Brahmins, who are responsible for performing the daily rituals. The temple’s main offerings include Poojas (prayers), Abhishekam (ritual bathing of the deity), and Archana (chanting the Lord’s names). Devotees perform various acts of worship throughout the day, including lighting lamps, offering flowers, and reciting hymns in praise of Lord Shiva.
The temple also offers devotees the opportunity to participate in rituals such as the Vazhipaadu (special offerings) and the Thulabharam (weighing the devotee with fruits, flowers, or gold in exchange for blessings). These rituals are an expression of one’s devotion and an offering of gratitude to the divine.
Main Offerings
Thulabharam, Parayideel, Chuttuvilakku, Sahasra Kalasham, Kalabhabhishekam, Ashtadravya Ganapathi homam.
Dress Code
Men: Dhoti/Mundu only; no shirts inside the shrine.
Women: Saree or salwar kameez with dupatta; no modern outfits.
Girls (under 12): Gowns allowed
Timings
Morning Darshan: From 4 am to 12 pm.
Evening Darshan: From 5 pm to 8 pm
Address
Ettumanoor Sree Mahadeva Temple, Ettumanoor, Kottayam, Kerala – 686631
Offerings Enquiry & Booking: +91 80781 33375
Guest House Contact: +91 86060 23097
Email: [email protected]
Conclusion
Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is a spiritual and historical treasure of Kerala, cherished by devotees and visitors alike. With its deep religious significance, stunning architecture, cultural importance, and vibrant festivals, the temple serves as a powerful center of devotion and cultural pride for the region. Its history, divine presence, and rituals continue to inspire awe and reverence in those who visit, making it one of the most important and revered temples in Kerala. Whether you are seeking spiritual solace or simply marveling at the architectural brilliance, Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple offers a memorable experience that stays etched in the heart of every visitor.
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