Sree Mridanga Saileshwari Temple is a revered shrine with deep spiritual, cultural, and historical significance. The temple is considered one of the 108 Durga temples believed to have been consecrated by Lord Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Vishnu. Its name, “Mridanga Saileshwari,” carries profound symbolic meaning: “Mridanga” refers to the traditional percussion instrument, signifying a connection to music and the arts, while “Saileshwari” translates to “goddess of the mountain,” reflecting sanctity and divine presence.
According to legend, a celestial mridangam descended on this spot, marking it as sacred and inspiring the establishment of the temple, which came to be known as “Mridangashaila Nilayam” or Muzhakkunnu. The principal deity, Goddess Mridanga Saileshwari, is worshipped in her four-armed form, holding a conch and discus, blessing devotees while embodying multiple aspects of feminine divine energy. The goddess can also be revered as Saraswati, Lakshmi, Parvati, or Chandi, reflecting her multifaceted nature. This makes the temple not only a center of spiritual devotion but also a sanctuary for arts, knowledge, and creativity.
The temple is deeply intertwined with Kerala’s cultural heritage. It is associated with the royal lineage of the Kottayam and Pazhassi Raja families and is believed to have inspired early Kathakali compositions by the royal scholar-artist Kottayathu Thampuran. Legends tell that the goddess herself appeared to inspire the depiction of feminine characters in Kathakali, making the temple a cradle of Kerala’s classical performing arts. Architecturally, the temple reflects traditional Kerala style, featuring a sanctum sanctorum (Srikovil), chuttambalam, pond, and namaskara mandapam. Rituals include daily poojas, lamp offerings, and special ceremonies during festivals like Navaratri and the annual Pooram, attracting devotees seeking blessings for knowledge, prosperity, and protection. Beyond its religious significance, the temple is shrouded in mystique, with legends of supernatural protection over its sacred idol enhancing its aura. Today, Sree Mridanga Saileshwari Temple continues to be a vibrant center of worship, cultural expression, and spiritual rejuvenation, bridging Kerala’s rich artistic heritage with deep devotion to the divine feminine.
Festivals
The Temple has a number of festivals. The important ones are :
Navaratri Maholsavam
During Navaratri, the first part of the celebration focuses on worship of the Goddess in her various Durga forms. On the last three days Ashtami, Navami, and Vijayadashami the focus shifts to worship of the Goddess as a bestower of wisdom and learning.
Pooram Mahotsavam
This is another major festival celebrated annually in the Malayalam month of Meenam (roughly March–April), depending on the “Pooram” star.
Kathakali Festival
The temple reportedly conducts a Kathakali festival beginning on Vishu day (which marks the Malayalam New Year, around 14–15 April).
Contact Address: Sree Mridanga shaileshwari Temple, Muzhakkunnu, Kerala 670673
Phone Number: 099614 06408
