Chengannur Mahadeva Temple is also known as Bhagavathy Temple, is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated in the town of Chengannur in the state of Kerala, in southern India. The temple is one of the most important Shiva temples in Kerala, with Ettumanoor Mahadevar Temple, Kaduthruthy Mahadeva Temple, Vaikom Temple, Ernakulam Shiva Temple and Vadakkunathan Temple.
The temple is popularly considered one of the main temples of Bhagavathy in Kerala. The temple celebrates a rare menstruation festival for Bhagavathy, called Thripputhu, during which the temple remains closed for three days during the irregular menstruation of the deity. There are five daily poojas made in the temple, three Sarabalies for Shiva and three for Bhagavathy. Tantric worship is done by Thazhaman. The annual festival celebrated from December to January and is celebrated for 28 days.
Chengannur Mahadeva Kshethram History:
According to Hindu legend, Bhagavathia is considered the god of Kerala and the protector of the masses. It is believed that Parvathi, Shiva’s wife, came here after marrying him in the Himalayas. Parvathi had her menstrual period for 28 days. Bhagavathia is considered a reincarnation of Sati, where her Kamakya fell to the north. Another variant of the same legend indicates that the sage Agasthya, who was unable to attend the sacred wedding of Shiva and Parvathi, was visited by the couple after the marriage. As Parvathi was in her menstrual period, she waited 28 days to give darshan to the sage.
Chengannur Mahadeva Kshethram Festival and Worship Practices:
1) There are five daily poojas done in the temple.
2) Three Sarabalies for Shiva and three for Bhagavathy. Tantric worship is done by Thazhaman.
3) The temple celebrates a rare menstruation festival for Bhagavathy, called Thripputhu. The temple will be closed for 3 days during the this menstruation of the deity.
4) Thiruppooth Aratt festival is celebrated during March every year. Mahadeva and Bhagavathy is taken in a procession on decorated elephants to the Pamba River on this festival.
5) The major festival in the temple are flag hoisting on the Thiruvathirai in the month of Dhanu and Aaratu during the Thiruvathirai month of Makaram.
6) Yearly festival is celebrated during the December–January which lasts 28 days.
7) Varshikotsavam
7) Shivarati is celebrated in a grand manner.
8) Chitrapournami