HISTORY

Ettumanoorappan, the Great Lord of Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple in Kerala, India, stands as a mesmerizing embodiment of Lord Shiva’s divine attributes and cosmic energy. The deity, standing tall and resplendent, captivates the hearts and minds of all who behold him. His very presence exudes an aura of mysticism, drawing devotees towards his sacred abode, seeking solace and spiritual enlightenment. Dating back to several centuries, the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple holds immense significance in Hindu mythology and history. Legend has it that Sage Khara Prakasha, a disciple of Lord Parasurama, established this sacred shrine. The temple also finds mention in kottarathil shankunni's aithihyamala further affirming its historical importance. Here Ettumanoor devaswom invite you on a journey of transcendence and divine exploration, a journey into the realm of Ettumanoorappan, the idol form of lord Shiva at Ettumanoor Temple. As we embark upon this literary note, let us be immersed in the awe-inspiring presence of this divine figure, who represents the eternal and timeless essence of the cosmos.

In the temple's sanctum sanctorum, Ettumanoorappan stands in his grandeur, draped in divine attire that symbolizes his entwined identity with the universe. Adorned with garlands of fragrant flowers, his majestic crown signifies his supreme authority over all realms, while his third eye, symbol of intuition, opens the gateway to higher consciousness.

TEMPLE STRUCTURE

ANTIQUITY

As devotees gaze into the eyes of Ettumanoorappan, they are met with a profound sense of serenity and calm. The divine countenance reflects the timeless wisdom of Shiva, a wisdom that transcends mundane existence and reveals the deeper truths of existence. The serene smile upon his lips evokes a sense of benevolence, assuring his devotees of his eternal presence and unwavering protection.

Ettumanoorappan's divine form is not confined to his physical presence alone, for his influence extends far beyond the boundaries of the temple walls. The deity's divine grace is believed to have the power to transform lives and dispell darkness from the hearts of devotees, guiding them towards the path of spiritual liberation.

Being situated in a place surrounded by people from all caste and creed ,this temple is steeped in a rich tapestry of stories and beliefs that have been passed down through generations, adding a mystical aura to its divine presence. Within this rich tapestry of mythology and legend, Ettumanoorappan's story weaves itself intricately. It is said that when Vasuki, the king of serpents, coiled himself around the deity's neck, his hood extended to cover Ettumanoorappan's head. This unique feature has made this particular idol distinct and revered, inspiring awe for centuries.

SHRINE & MANDAPAM

LEGEND

One of the most fascinating myths associated with the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple revolves around the origin of its name. Legend has it that the temple came into existence as a result of a vision seen by a king named Rajasekara Varman. In his dream, Lord Shiva appeared before him and directed him to his self-manifested form located in Ettumanoor. Ettu means "eight" and Manoor refers to the land, suggesting that Lord Shiva appeared in eight different forms or aspects in this sacred land.

Khara Maharshi, also known as Khara prasada Muni or Khara Brahma Rishi, is a prominent figure in the mythology surrounding the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple. His story adds a unique dimension to the already rich tapestry of legends associated with the temple.

According to the myth, Khara Maharshi was a great sage renowned for his dedication and spiritual prowess. However, he was afflicted with a curse that transformed him into a demonic entity with a grotesque appearance. Consumed by his newfound demonic nature, Khara Maharshi's powers turned malevolent, causing havoc and devastation wherever he went....

Understanding the dire consequences of his actions, Khara Maharshi sought redemption and release from his curse. He undertook intense penance and sought the blessings of Lord Shiva. In response to his sincere efforts and prayers, Lord Shiva appeared before him and granted him a boon.

The boon granted by Lord Shiva purified Khara Maharshi of his demonic nature and restored him to his original form as a sage. Overwhelmed with gratitude, Khara Maharshi expressed his desire to establish a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva as a form of reparation for his past misdeeds. Lord Shiva blessed Khara Maharshi's wish and guided him to the land where Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple can be seen now , decreeing that the temple be built at this sacred location.

Khara Maharshi, deeply devoted to Lord Shiva, constructed the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple with utmost reverence and piety. The temple became a paradise for devotees seeking solace and divine blessings. It stands as a testament to Khara Maharshi's redemption and his commitment to promoting spirituality and righteousness.

The mythical story of Khara Maharshi highlights the transformative power of devotion and the potential for personal redemption. It serves as a reminder that, despite one's past mistakes, sincere repentance and wholehearted devotion can lead to the restoration of one's spiritual path.

The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple continues to be a revered place of worship, attracting devotees seeking blessings, redemption, and spiritual enlightenment. Through Khara Maharshi's journey, the temple imparts valuable lessons of forgiveness, devotion, and the possibility of spiritual awakening, inspiring devotees to seek the divine grace of Lord Shiva.

These mythical narratives surrounding the Ettumanoor temple not only add to its allure but also inspire devotion and spiritual contemplation among its countless devotees. Each tale serves as a reminder of the divine grace and power that resides within the sacred realm, guiding and protecting those who seek solace and enlightenment.

Devotees flock to Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple with hearts filled with faith and devotion, seeking the blessings of Ettumanoorappan. They offer their prayers and perform rituals, immersing themselves in the divine atmosphere that resonates through the temple's corridors. The air is filled with the soul-stirring melodies of hymns and the rhythmic beats of traditional percussion instruments, enhancing the spiritual ambiance and forging a deep connection between the mortal and divine.

May these myths and legends continue to ignite our thirst for spiritual understanding as we delve deeper into the profound mysteries of Ettumanoorappan, and through this avtar of Shiva, we are reminded of the transcendent power of faith and devotion. Ettumanoorappan's presence echoes the divine call within us all, urging us to seek profound spiritual truths and reach for the heights of enlightenment. May we all find solace and inspiration in the captivating form of Ettumanoorappan, the manifestation of the eternal cosmic dance..

Having ' vrishbha vahana at its apex ,the golden flagpole of the Ettumanoorappan Temple inspires devotion and faith in the visitors. Sree moolam thirunal Maharaja Instituted the first Golden flag pole that has been erected in Kerala in 1979 ,91 years after the old flag pole fell into decay. On 9th February 1979 the new flagpole was dedicated under the auspices of the Devaswom Board.

THE GOLDEN FLAG POLE

ART & CULTURE

Apart from its religious significance, the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple also showcases splendid architectural beauty. The temple boasts intricate woodwork and elaborate mural paintings depicting various Hindu mythological tales mostly from the great Indian Epics Ramayana and Mahabharata on its walls. The serene surroundings and well-preserved premises provide a peaceful atmosphere for spiritual contemplation.The carvings and murals in Ettumanoor Temple are proofs of how much progress was made in the art of sculture and painting in Kerala in ancient times . The walls and ceiling of the shrine, Mandapam , Belikalpura and East Nada are adorned with plenty of such artistic wonders. Most of the carvings are based on the stories of the great epic The Ramayana and The Mahabharata .The Portrayal of the great stories starts from the image of Bhuthathan( some say Chathan swamy) .Bhuthathan is said to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Next to it a row of animals are depicted on granite stone. Then the stories of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata then Dashavathara ,Dakshayagam ,Sivapuranam ,Ganapathi prathal etc .all these are made with great artistery and heart warming work of art.

The inside walls of the gopuram is inscribed with 'Pradosha dance', 'Aghoramurthy', Ananthashyanam,and the outer side of the wall 'Vettashasthav', ' Venugopalan', 'Gopika vastrakshebham', lasya dance of gopikas etc are portrayed.These paintings are crowning examples of Kerala's unique artistry.