Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur – Poojas

Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur – Poojas

Not only in the case of physical structures, but also in the matter of rituals, poojas and even in the order of movement of a worshipper from sanctum to sanctum, the temple maintains a uniqueness of its own. It is believed that you have to follow a certain order when moving between the temples. It is advisable to ask somebody inside this temple for this. The temple opens at three in the morning and closes about 10-30 after the morning rites. For the evening worship it opens at four and closes at 8.30 at night after trippuka, the last rite for the day.

The daily Abhisheka of Lord Shiva with Ghee for many years covers the idol of Lord in such a way that the idol will hardly be visible to one’s eyes. A portion of the ghee, after Abhisheka is given back to the devotees as it is believed to have miraculous power to cure all the diseases. According to traditional belief, this represents the snow-clad Mount Kailash, the abode of Shiva. This is the only temple where the lingam is not visible. It is said that the ghee offered here for centuries does not have any foul odour and it does not melt even during summer.

Before concluding day Pooram, the deities ascending through southern gopuram will travel up to the statue of erstwhile Maharaja of Cochin in front of the Corporation office. There was a custom a team of merchants from market will receive the deities from the swaraj round and will lead to the market. This "Angadi Kanikkura" was a way of seeking the blessing. To commemorate this custom is followed. Version is also that "Nairangadi" was residential area once and the deities travel to "prayeduppu".