It is one of the most prominent and revered temples in Kerala and holds immense religious and historical significance. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to have been built during the 8th to 9th century AD by Parashurama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The architectural style of Vadakkunnathan Temple is unique and showcases the traditional Kerala style of temple construction.
The temple complex is spread over a vast area and is enclosed within massive stone walls. The main deity of the temple is Lord Shiva in the form of Vadakkunnathan, which means "the Lord facing north." The presiding deity is enshrined in the central sanctum sanctorum, and the temple follows strict rituals and customs as per Hindu tradition.
The temple is renowned for its exquisite architecture and intricate wood carvings. The walls of the temple are adorned with beautiful murals and frescoes depicting various mythological stories and legends. The temple's gopuram (tower) is an impressive structure with detailed sculptures and carvings.
One of the unique features of Vadakkunnathan Temple is the absence of a Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum) roof. Instead, the main shrine is open to the sky, allowing devotees to have direct access to Lord Shiva's blessings. The temple also has several other smaller shrines dedicated to different deities within its complex.
Festivals
Maha Shivaratri
Maha Shivaratri is the main festival which is celebrated in the temple.[19] Cultural and musical programmes are held in the temple premises. Around one lakh temple lamps (hundred thousand)are lighted in the festival. During this festival, the temple attracts a large number of devotees who come to offer prayers and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
Aanayoottu
The Aanayoottu of feeding of elephants, is the second biggest festival held in the temple. The devotees refer to elephants as Lord Ganesh's incarnation. The festival falls on the first day of the month of Karkkidakam (timed against the Malayalam calendar), which coincides with the month of July.
Thrissur Pooram
Thrissur Pooram is called the mother of all Poorams in Kerala. In Malayalam it's called "poorangalude pooram". This is conducted in the Malayalam month of MedamThe main attractions of Pooram are Madathilavaravu panchavadhyam, Elanjithara melam, Kudamattam and Vedikettu. The festival is a visual feast for all those who enjoy it.
Apart from its religious importance, Vadakkunnathan Temple is also a center for various cultural and artistic activities. The temple hosts several classical music and dance performances, as well as traditional temple arts and rituals. The annual Thrissur Pooram festival, one of the most famous temple festivals in Kerala, takes place in the vicinity of the temple and attracts thousands of visitors from around the world.
Visitors to Vadakkunnathan Temple can experience the spiritual and architectural grandeur of the temple, witness the rituals and ceremonies, and admire the artistic beauty of the surroundings. The serene ambiance and the rich cultural heritage associated with the temple make it a must-visit destination for devotees and tourists alike.
