Ganapathiyar Kovil Kanjirappally Kottayam

Ganapathiyar Kovil, located in Kanjirappally, Kottayam district of Kerala, is home to two distinct temples Thekke Ganapathiyar and Vadakke Ganapathiyar both dedicated primarily to Lord Ganapathy.

Thekke Ganapathiyar Temple with granite architecture in Kanjirappally

Thekke Ganapathiyar Temple was constructed in 1150 CE by the Nattukottai Chettiar community, who had migrated from Tamil Nadu for trade. This temple is remarkable for its complete granite construction, including the roof, reflecting the architectural traditions of the era.

Vadakke Ganapathiyar Temple, built around 1450 CE, was established by the Vellala community from Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu. The construction was permitted by the then ruler, the Thekkumkoor king. In this temple, three deities Lord Shiva, Bala Ganapathi, and Subramanya are uniquely enshrined on a single pedestalpeedam.

During the time of Colonel John Munro’s tenure as Diwan of Travancore, the temple was closed and later came under British control. Its copper clad doors were auctioned off, and the temple’s idols went missing for several years. Thanks to the determined efforts of the local villagers, led by Swami Athuradas, the temple was eventually revived. The original Ganapathy idol was rediscovered in the temple pond and reinstated with devotion. The temple now actively celebrates major festivals, especially Shivratri and Vinayaka Chaturthi, drawing devotees from across the region.

Ganapathiyar Kovil Images



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