ASHTAMI AT VAIKOM

The Mahadeva Temple at Vaikom is one of the most famous and oldest Siva temples in Kerala. The utsavam in this temple is celebrated for twelve days during the dark lunar fortnight of Vrischikam, (November-December) the Ashtami falling on the last day. During the night on the Ashtami day the deities of the neighbouring temples will be ceremoniously brought in procession to this temple. This is a very colourful and important function. After dusk, the deity of the Vaikom temple will be taken out in procession and kept in the Anakkottil (elephant shed). At about midnight the deities of other temples will also be brought in procession to the Anakkottil. Thereafter a ceremony called Kanikkiduka (offering of presents) is performed. This is considered to be an important feature. Kanikkiduka function is indeed unique in that it is found in no other temples.

The kootipuja performed during the festival, at the temple deserves special mention. The Arattu in conclusion of the utsava in the Udayanapuram temple, is performed at Vaikom temple. The Arattu is performed at the Arattu tank located at a distance of one mile east of the temple. The Arattu celebration over, both the deities are taken to Vaikom temple, where they are worshipped together. This is what is known as Kootipuja. This puja is performed on the fifth day after Kodiyettu, the hoisting of the temple flag. On the next day after Ashtami, Arattu is performed to the deity in this temple. The Ashtami in the dark lunar fortnight of Kumbhom, is also quite important