Munch Murugan Temple

Introduction to the Munch Murugan Temple

The Chemmoth Sree Bala Subramanya Temple, or Munch Murugan Temple, is in Alappuzha, Kerala. The presiding deity Balamurugan is said to be fond of Nestle Munch chocolates. Though it is a 300-year-old ancient temple, the deity's fondness for chocolates is only six years old. It is also known as Thekkan Palani and Thalavady Subramanya Temple.

History of the Munch Murugan Temple

Seven years ago, a Muslim boy rang the temple bell while playing with his friends during Pooja time. His parents scolded and warned him. The boy fell sick the next day. While he was ill, he kept chanting the name of Murugan.

So, his parents took him to the temple's priest. Like other devotees, they offered oil and flowers to the deity. However, the boy offered Munch chocolates to Balamurugan. The next day, he was miraculously cured. That is how the temple got the name 'Munch Murugan Temple.

The Architecture of the Munch Murugan Temple

The Munch Murugan Temple was built in the typical Kerala-style temple architecture and was recently renovated by an ardent Murugan devotee. There is a pure bronze Dhwajasthambam before the sanctum of the temple. Its roof and pillars were built with ancient wood, and it has survived hundreds of harsh monsoons in Kerala. The divine vehicle of Murugan, a peacock, is in the temple premises.

The temple's main deity is Balamurugan, also known as Karthikeya. The east-facing idol of Balamurugan, the commander of the divine armies, holds his mighty golden spear in one arm. His other arm bestows blessings on his devotees. The silver border surrounding the deity is decorated with lemon garlands.

Other temples typically distribute sandal paste and fruits as Prasad, but the Munch Murugan Temple is an exception. The deity listens only to the prayers of true devotees prayers and accepts sincere offerings.

Worship in Munch Murugan Temple

A huge traditional copper vessel is in the temple. It is used for the daily Pooja of Murugan and can carry 8 kg rice. After gaining popularity as Munch Murugan Temple, a new tradition, Munch Para (a big vessel full of Munch) began in the temple. The entire vessel is filled with Munch chocolates and offered to the deity in the Munch Para. Devotees believe that offering 8 Kg of Munch chocolates to the deity will fulfill their wishes. Munch Thulabharam is another quaint tradition in the temple. After this, the chocolates are offered to Balamurugan, and devotees get them as Prasad.

Festivals in the Munch Murugan Temple

The Munch Murugan Temple enthusiastically celebrates all Hindu festivals, especially Thai Poosam, Kanda Shasti, and Karthikai Deepam.

Benefits of Worshipping at the Munch Murugan Temple

The Munch Murugan Temple is very crowded in May, as it happens to be the exam season. Many students arrive here with their Munch bars to request the deity to grant them good luck during exams. They believe praying to Balamurugan will help them improve their memory and concentration.

Devotees strongly believe that worshipping Balamurugan here makes them confident and removes tension. Many devotees meditate within the temple premises, focusing on the deity to protect them from bad luck, nightmares, curses, and evil eyes.