The Chengannur Mahadeva Temple, located in the Alappuzha district of Kerala, is one of the oldest and most renowned temples in the region. This sprawling temple complex is unique in its architectural design, featuring a circular sanctum. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Parvati Devi, who are the principal deities of the shrine. Unlike most temples, Chengannur has two main shrines: Lord Shiva’s shrine faces East, while Parvati’s shrine faces West.
The primary shrine, built in a conical shape and covered with copper plating, houses the Shivalingam, which is adorned with a gold plate bearing the image of Ardhanareeswara, symbolizing the unity of Shiva and Shakti. Parvati’s idol is crafted from an alloy of five metals, known as Panchaloha.
In addition to the main deities, the temple also features several sub-shrines dedicated to Ganapati, Shasta (Lord Ayyappa), Chandikeswaran, Neelagrivan, Ganga, and Naagar, as well as a nearby shrine for Sree Krishna.
Architecture and History
The temple was constructed many centuries ago, following a design attributed to the legendary architect Perunthachan. In the 18th century, the temple complex was partially destroyed by fire but was later restored by Vanghipuzha Thampuran, with the exception of the Kuthambalam (the performance hall), which could not be reconstructed as originally designed due to its unique architectural significance.
The Kuthambalam was built by Perunthachan in such a way that the shadow of a performer would not fall on the stage when all the lamps were lit at each of the posts. The intricate woodwork in the Mukhamandapam (front hall) and other mandapams within the temple further adds to the architectural grandeur.
Unique Beliefs and Festivals
Chengannur Mahadeva Temple is known for its distinctive rituals and festivals, one of the most unique being Thriputharattu. This festival, considered a symbol of fertility, is linked to a menstruation ceremony held periodically at the temple. According to the belief, the festival represents the menstruation of Devi Parvati. During the festival, the priest (Melsanthi) examines the Vesture (Udayada) of the deity each morning. If signs of menstruation are observed, the vesture is handed over to the Devasom officials for confirmation by the abbesses of the Thazhaman and Vanghipuzha madhom. If confirmed, the main shrine of the goddess is closed, and worship is offered to a procession image in a different part of the temple.
On the fourth day of the festival, the Devi’s idol is taken to the nearby river for a ritual known as Arrattu, which is referred to as Thriputharattu. Afterward, the goddess is brought back to the temple in a grand procession, with Lord Shiva joining her on an elephant. Together, they circle the temple three times in a Pradakshinam. Lord Shiva enters the shrine from the Eastern side, while Devi enters from the Western side.
The Divine Marriage of Shiva and Parvati
A significant legend associated with the temple is the divine marriage of Shiva and Parvati. According to mythology, all the gods, including Brahma, Vishnu, Sages, and Devas, attended the marriage of Shiva and Parvati in the Himalayas. The Trimoorthies (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva) requested Sage Agasthya to meditate on the southern bank of the Pamba River, on Shonadri Hill, to prevent the Earth from sinking due to the weight of all the gods and divine guests.
Though Agasthya agreed, he expressed his regret about missing the marriage. After the wedding, Lord Shiva and Devi Parvati visited Agasthya at Shonadri. During their visit, Parvati began her menstruation, and she could not return immediately. The place where this event occurred is called Shonadri in Sanskrit and Chen Kunnu in Malayalam, which later became known as Chengannur—a name that commemorates this sacred event.
This legend, as well as the temple’s connection to the concept of Shakti and fertility, contributes to Chengannur Mahadeva Temple’s unique position in Hindu worship and its cultural significance in Kerala.
