The Vazhappally Maha Siva Temple, located in Vazhappally near Changanassery in Kottayam district, Kerala, is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Believed to have been constructed during the reign of the first Chera dynasty, it is notable for being one of the few temples in Kerala with two nalambalams.
According to legend, the Shiva lingam worshipped here was initially brought from Neelamperoor by Brahmin families. When they could not shake the lingam, the deity Parasurama appeared and offered them his own lingam, advising them to build a temple on the Ardhanariswara concept, resulting in a grand shrine for both Shiva and Parvati.
Festivals
The Temple has a number of festivals. The important ones are :
Mudiyettu
Mudiyettu is a traditional ritual theatre and folk dance drama from Kerala, India, that dramatizes the mythological battle between the goddess Kali and the demon Darika. This ritual is integral to the worship of Bhagavathi, or Bhadrakali, a fierce form of the Mother Goddess. The performances are typically held in Bhadrakali temples between February and May, following the harvest season, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and ensuring the protection and prosperity of the community.
Maha Shivaratri
Maha Shivaratri, a significant festival in the Shaivism tradition of Hinduism, is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. Unlike many Hindu festivals, it is celebrated at night, emphasizing introspection and spiritual practices rather than cultural revelry. Devotees engage in fasting, meditation, and an all-night vigil at Shiva temples, focusing on virtues like honesty and forgiveness. The festival symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, with rituals such as the offering of Bilva leaves, milk, and honey to the Shiva lingam.
Contact Address: Vazhappally Maha Siva Temple, Vazhappally, Changanassery, Kottayam, Kerala 686103
Phone Number: 1800 425 4747
