Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple - Pride of Kerala
Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple is a standout amongst the most mainstream temples in the state. As for the temple design, this construction emerges to be an extreme testimonial for the antiquated Vishwakarma sthapathis in comparison alongside Sabarimala. Lord Shiva is likewise worshiped at the temple. Individuals experiencing emotional instabilities visit here. Goddess Bhagavathy, prevalently known as Raja Rajeswari is the directing divinity. The present structure of the temple was believed to be built in the 10th century.
The renowned saint of the 8th century Sri Sankaracharya, who established the Advaita philosophy with the blessings of lord Parvati, wished to bring Chamundeswari of Mysore to Kerala and began a penance to realize his mission. Lord Parvati conceded to his request but on a condition that Acharya Shankara should proceed to his destination and that mother Parvati would follow him and that he should never turn back. If he did so, Parvati also would stop at the spot and would not come with him further. Acharya accepted the condition and began to walk. Lord Parvati followed him making a melodious sound of her anklets. They walked days and nights.
One fine morning, the sound of anklets stopped. Shocked, Acharya simply turned back. It was the present day Kollur in Karnataka. Lord Parvati smiled at the Acharya and asked how he could forget the condition. Acharya Shankara said that as the sound of the anklet stopped, he was upset and turned back and begged her pardon. Lord smilingly said, “Shankara, this is also the Kerala bhoomi. I have come to the land of your wish”. Yet, Shankara pleaded with her to come to Vendha Nadu near Alleppey that his penance should not go waste. Granting his wish in a different way, Devi said that she would grant her darshan from 3.00 AM to 7.30 AM (Brahma Muhurtham time) at Chottanikkara and consoled Shankara.
The Parvati here is adored as Goddess Saraswati in the morning, Goddess Bhadrakali in the noon and as Goddess Durga in the night. Symbol of lord Vishnu is likewise blessed in the sanctum sanctorum. The temple is situated in a hilly region surrounded on all sides by undulating beauty, rich with its green turf, golden farms that provide deep spiritual solace to the entire devotees. People suffering from mental illnesses usually visit the temple, as Bhagawati has mystic powers to cure her devotees. Guruthi offering is famous here. It is a mix of turmeric and lime water and the resultant solution looks very much similar to blood. Another popular activity here is the exorcism of the evil spirits that possess people.