The most important celebration at the temple is Vinayaka Chaturthi, observed in the Malayalam month of Chingam (August–September). This auspicious day is marked with various rituals including special pujas, homams, and Annadanam. In addition to this, the temple also celebrates another major festival during the month of Kumbham (February–March).
The temple's architecture features a traditional square-shaped sanctum sanctorum facing east, maintaining the sacred style typical of Kerala temple design. Apart from the main deity, the temple also houses sub-shrines for Lord Subramanya and Lord Ayyappa, both of whom are widely worshipped in Kerala.
Chathurthi, which falls on the fourth day of both the waxing and waning phases of the moon, is considered highly auspicious at this temple and is marked with special worship rituals.
The temple is well known for conducting various rituals aimed at removing obstacles in devotees lives.
Interestingly, it is believed that the deity of the famous Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple himself offers prayers at this shrine to remove all hurdles, signifying the spiritual power attributed to Moorthitta Ganapathi. A unique feature of the temple is the regular vahana puja, a ritual offering and blessing for vehicles, drawing devotees seeking protection and safety in travel.
The temple also plays a significant role in the annual pilgrimage to Sabarimala.
Thanka Anki procession a ceremonial journey carrying the sacred golden attire for Lord Ayyappa is given a traditional and respectful welcome at this temple, highlighting its cultural and religious importance in Kerala’s devotional traditions.
This sacred temple stands as a symbol of divine grace, community gathering, and spiritual protection. It continues to serve as a powerful place for Ganesha devotees who seek his blessings for success, wisdom, and the removal of life’s obstacles.
Special Festivals at Mahaganapathi Temple
The temple celebrates several spiritually significant festivals with devotion, rituals, and community participation. Among these, the following festivals hold a special place in the hearts of devotees:
Mandala‑Makaravilakku Season (Vrischikam–Makaram, November–January)
During the pilgrim heavy Sabarimala season, this temple sees increased activity as devotees pass through Aranmula. Many stop here to seek Ganapathy’s blessings before continuing their journey, often offering coconuts and incense.
Ganesh Chaturthi (10‑Day Festival)
A ten-day Ganesh Chaturthi festival takes place in late August/early September. The temple is adorned with lamps (vilakkumaadam), devotional music and homams, and devotees participate in elaborate pujas and annadhanam to celebrate Lord Ganapathy.
Ashtami Rohini Festival / Vallasadya (Onam Season)
Though chiefly associated with the Parthasarathy Temple, the Ashtami Rohini Valla Sadya a grand feast in honour of Lord Krishna’s birthday is celebrated across Aranmula. Devotional rituals and river processions with palliyodams often touch the vicinity of Moorthitta Ganapathy Temple, drawing local engagement.
Celebrated in the Malayalam month of Meenam (March–April), this festival coincides with Chaturthi tithi, a sacred day for Lord Ganesha. Special poojas and Mahaganapathi Homam are performed, invoking the Lord’s blessings to remove obstacles and grant knowledge and prosperity. Devotees throng the temple for darshan, offerings, and participation in homam rituals, accompanied by traditional music and chants.
Contact Address: Moorthitta Ganapathy Temple Aranmula,
Mallapuzhassery, Kerala 689533
