Kottayam —
Standing majestically at the very centre of Kottayam town, the Thirunakkara Sree Mahadevar Temple continues to be a powerful symbol of faith, culture, and heritage. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is not only a major spiritual centre but also a cultural landmark that defines the identity of Kottayam city.
Believed to have been consecrated in AD 108, the temple has a long and rich history closely linked to the rulers of Thekkumkoor Kingdom, who patronised and protected it for centuries. Even today, the temple remains an integral part of daily life in the town, with devotees beginning and ending their day with prayers at Thirunakkara.
Architectural Splendour and Artistic Legacy
The temple is a fine example of traditional Kerala temple architecture, featuring a beautifully crafted sreekovil, expansive nalambalam, and a towering gold-plated dwajasthambam (flagstaff). The temple’s most striking feature is its vibrant mural paintings, which depict scenes from the Shiva Purana, Ramayana, and other sacred texts.
These murals, painted using natural pigments, are considered priceless treasures of Kerala’s classical art tradition and attract historians, artists, and cultural enthusiasts alongside devotees.
Daily Rituals and Spiritual Significance
Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Mahadevar, with rituals performed strictly according to ancient Tantric and Vedic practices. Daily poojas such as Usha Pooja, Ucha Pooja, Deeparadhana, and Athazha Pooja are conducted with great devotion.
Devotees believe that sincere prayers offered at Thirunakkara bring mental peace, prosperity, and relief from obstacles, making the temple a place of solace amid the bustle of city life.
Thirunakkara Arattu Festival
The temple comes alive during the grand annual Thirunakkara Arattu Festival, held in the Malayalam month of Meenam. Spanning ten days, the festival is one of the most celebrated cultural events in Kottayam.
The highlight is the Arattu procession, featuring richly caparisoned elephants, traditional percussion ensembles like Panchavadyam and Chenda Melam, and colourful fireworks. Thousands of devotees and spectators gather to witness the spectacle, transforming the city into a vibrant cultural arena.
Centre of Culture and Community
Beyond worship, Thirunakkara Sree Mahadevar Temple serves as a hub for classical arts, temple festivals, and community gatherings. During festival seasons, the temple grounds host Kathakali performances, devotional music, and traditional art forms, helping preserve Kerala’s cultural heritage.
The temple’s central location has also made it a focal point for social and cultural interactions in Kottayam for generations.
Spiritual Tourism and Urban Identity
As one of Kottayam’s most visited temples, Thirunakkara plays a vital role in promoting spiritual tourism. Visitors often combine temple visits with nearby heritage spots, markets, and cultural centres, boosting local commerce and tourism.
Temple authorities continue to ensure the smooth conduct of rituals while adapting to modern requirements such as crowd management and visitor facilities.
A Living Landmark
More than a place of worship, Thirunakkara Sree Mahadevar Temple stands as the spiritual heart of Kottayam — a timeless space where devotion, art, and history come together. As the city evolves, the temple remains a constant presence, offering faith, tradition, and cultural continuity to generations of devotees.