Varakkal Sri Durga Devi Temple is located in West Hill within the town. It is one of the 108 Durga temples and the last one founded by Sage Parasurama as per belief. The deity is Durga Devi (Bhagawathy). This temple was once a promotion center of art and cultural activities of Malabar in the long past.
Varakkal Sri Durga Devi Temple Timings:
Morning: 5:00 AM to 10:00 AM
Evening: 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Kozhikode Bhagawathy Temple History:
The legend says, upon the penance of Parasuraman in Threthayuga (a particular ancient period), Durga Devi appeared and said I will be present in Theertharoopam on the Chothi star day and Vavu (full moon day) to bless the devotees. Following this, Parasuraman erected the temple.
In the initial period of the temple, there were proper daily rituals. Afterward, the rituals were given a holiday for lack of funds or some other reasons. The people of the region started experiencing the impact of the negligence on the shrine. Hearing this, the rulers at the time, Perumallors, came on the scene and arranged for daily rituals. Soon the shrine leaped into the position of Mahakshetra (big temple). Later, Zamorins took charge of the temple, renovated, and modified the structure to the present state. Even today the temple is managed by the Zamorin family.
Varakkal Sri Durga Devi Temple offerings:
Mahanivedyam the most important ritual
Pushpanjali
Padivilakku
Naivilakku
Thrikalapooja
Swayamvara Pushpanjali
Santhana Gopala Pooja
Ganapathy Homam
Thila Homam
Varakkal Sri Durga Devi Temple Festivals:
The festival is Navarathri which is celebrated with great fanfare. Vavu Bali (a ritual for the departed souls) is conducted on the full moon day in the month of Thulam (October/November). Thousands of people who have undergone fast the previous day assemble on Varakkal beach and the priests of the temple administer the ceremonies for each individual who performs the Vavu Bali for his dear and near departed souls. The perception is that the Vavu Bali satisfies the departed souls and they stand guard to the living dear and near ones.
Varakkal Sri Durga Devi Temple Dress Code:
For Men: Dhoti or Mundu without shirts or banyan.
For Women’s: Saree with blouse/ Punjabi Dress with Dupatta / Chudidhar with Dupatta/ Half saree.
Note:
How to Reach Varakkal DurgaDevi Temple:
The nearest railway station is Kozhikode, about 6 km away.
The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport, about 27 km away.
Varakkal Sri Durga Devi Temple Address:
Varakkal Temple Road,
West Hill,
Kozhikode,
Kerala – 673005
Phone: 0495 238 3134