Venkata Thevar Temple in Malappuram
Kottakkal – a small village which falls on the route from Malappuram to Tirur; although still rural in nature, the village stands as a major pilgrim and cultural center due to the Venkata Thevar Temple.Sometimes associated with the Arya Vaidya Sala, an esteemed center of Ayurveda, the temple originally has its dates back to the Dravidian period.
Venkata Thevar Temple in Malappuram Location
Also known as Venkata Thevar Siva Temple, it lies midway between Kottakkal and Malappuram town.This ancient temple now falls under the department of Archaeology, for its preservation.
The Rock Temple
The Venkata Thevar Temple is a rock temple, i.e., the temple is made by cutting and carving from the mountain rock.Believed to be constructed during the 7th to 8th century period, the architecture of the temple resembles the Dravidian style with influences of the Pallava Art.
The prime deity is Lord Shiva and the sculpture on the walls depicts Arjuna praying to Lord Shiva for the divine weapon Pashupathi Astra.
The beautiful mural paintings on the walls of the temple, although somewhat faded, make up to 64 types.
Garbhagriha and Mukhamandapa
The two most notable features of the Venkata Thevar Temple are the Garbhagriha and Mukhamandapa, these two are square shaped having magnificent carvings made out of wood, date back to the architectural style of 19th century.Another feature, Dwithala vimana, has a sheeted roof along with the figures of Dwarapalaka are made out of wood.
Offerings at Venkata Thevar Temple in Malappuram
The Hindu temples in Kerala are unique in the rich rituals carried out in the temples here. The Venkata Thevar Temple follows the same tradition.The three offerings made everyday here are the Usha pooja, the Ucha pooja, and the Athazha pooja.
Kottakkal Puram
The annual festival of Kottakkal is celebrated during March-April period. The seven-day long festival is associated with the cultural richness.A cultural festival is organized along with this festival, where all the renowned artistes belonging to music, art, culture and literature fields, throughout the country, participate in the festival.