KODUNGALLOOR BHARANI UTSAVAM

Kodungalloor the ancient capital of Kerala lying about twenty miles north-west of Ernakulam had a hoary past. From the days of recorded history, Kodungalloor had been the internationally known maritime port of India. Even in those distant days she had extensive trade relations with many countries in the West as well as in the Middle-East and had earned the reputation of being the first 'Trade Emporium in India".

Situated in the centre of an extensive bright sandy maidan, the Bhagavathi temple presents a splendid sight. The Sreekovil is quite an artistic feat. The idol of Devi is in the guise which she had assumed when she fought Darika. Thousands of her devotees queuing up in respectful submission cry in unison, 'Oh, Mother, save us'. and prostrate before her. The Kodungallor Bhagavathi themple is one of the wealthiest temples in Kerala. Till recently the administration of the temple was in the hands of the Kodungalloor royal family, but now it is under the Cochin Devasworn Board.

Bhadrakali born of the third eye of Samhara Rudra, killed the demon Darika. It is to commemorate this event that the famous Bharani festival is celebrated in the Kodungalloor Bhagavathi temple in Meenam (March-April) every year. There is a popular belief that it was Parasurama who, under the direction of Bhadrakali, had introduced the celebration of Bharani Utsavam in this temple.

Early morning on Bharani day, a special nivedya, prepared with a fine variety of rice known as Variyarippayasa nivedyam is offered to Devi. This ceremony is performed by Adikals. Even before the day dawns, the deity would be ceremoniously taken out of the Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum) and placed on a raised pedestal for public worship. Simultaneously, the temple flag will be hoisted at the eastern-side of the lamp post about the northern entrance to the temple. It signifies the victory of Devi over Darika. Following the Bharani day, the temple doors will remain closed for six days. On these days pooja is offered only once a day. On the seventh day when the doors of the temple are opened, countless number of devotees from throughout the state will have darshan (vision) of Devi, for they believe it is most auspicious to get the Devi's darshan on that day. On the same day, all the flags hoisted earlier, will be lowered, marking the end of the Bharani Utsavam