Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple

 

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Kurumba Bhagavati Temple or Kodungallur Bhagavati Temple is a Hindu temple at Kodungallur, Thrichur district of Kerala. The idol of the goddess Bhadrakali popularly known as "Kodungallur Amma" in the temple is unique as it has eight hands with various attributes. One is holding the head of an Asura, another sword, next an anklet, another a bell, and so on. Kurumba Bhagavati Temple is perhaps a memorial built by a Chera king to Kannaki, heroine of Ilango Adigal's Tamil classic Silappathikaram.

The temple is situated in the middle of a plot of land about ten acres, surrounded by banyan and peepal trees. The srikovil is facing north. The western chamber of the inner temple is the seat of Sapthamatrukas (Seven Mothers) who also face north. The idols of Ganapathi and Veerabhadra are found in the chamber, one facing east and the other facing west, respectively. The idol of bhagawati is about seven feet high. The idol has eight arms that carry weapons and symbols.

To the left of the temple is the walled enclosure which has a peculiar ‘Samadhi of Vysoori', perhaps a medieval shrine deity for small pox, chicken pox, mumps and other contagious diseases. Devotees offer auspicious turmeric powder which gives credence to the influence of the Goddess and the legend. Its widespread fame is evident through its clean and well-kept sanctuaries. About fifty meters away to the left is a sacred pond (Pushkarini), where devotees bathe before entering the main shrine. It is believed that this pond was created by the goddess by striking the ground with her sword.