Koodalmanikyam Bharatha Temple, Irinjalakuda – Religious Practices

Koodalmanikyam Bharatha Temple, Irinjalakuda – Religious Practices

Three Poojas & No Sreebali:

The custom in most of the temples in Kerala is to have five poojas and three sreebalis a day. But in this temple, there are only three poojas and no sreebali. There is no Usha Puja and Pantheeradi Puja at this temple.

No Deeparadhana:

There is no Deeparadhana. Sticks and camphor are not used for the pooja. There are plans to start Deeparadhana in this temple. This temple is considered as the only temple in  the entire world without Deeparadhana.

Rituals of cleansing of the temple priest:

The temple priests (Namboodri Brahmins) are allowed to take part in the temple ceremonies only after cleansing themselves at the Kuttan Kulam, situated outside the temple and then again have to bathe in Kulipini Theertham before entering Srikovil (sanctum sanctorum).

Floral Offerings:

The floral offerings to the deity consist of lotus, Tulasi and thechi (ixora). But they are not grown in the temple compound. No other flower is taken for pooja or for making garlands. Lotus garland is an important offering to the deity. A garland will be offered to the deity which does have not less than 101 lotus flowers.

Deity taken out only during annual festival:

The deity is taken out for ceremonial procession only during the annual festival.