Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple

Introduction to Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple

Muthappan temple is the temple of the deity Sree Muthappan; the temple is located in the Kannur district, Kerala. Here the deity has two versions Thiruvappan and Vellattam. Today we will know many things about this temple so you can be sure about your trip to the Muthappan temple.

Legends of Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple

There was a couple, Ayyankara Naduvazhi and Padikutty; they were childless and miserable. Since Padikutty was a devotee of Lord Shiva, she used to worship the Lord and made a sacrifice for having a child. A few days passed, and Padikutty was passing by the side of a river. There she found a baby boy lying down on the ground without anyone.

Padikutty hence took the boy home and considered him as her own son. The couple brought up the boy and raised him well. The boy grew into a great archer, and he used to hunt with his bows and arrows. The prize money he used to distribute among the poor and people from backward communities.

However, the boy's father was not happy with his son's behavior and told him to stop. The boy then came in his true avatar, his cosmic form, which then revealed to his parents that he was an avatar of God who came to the Earth to fulfill his purpose of saving poor and needy people.

There is another legend that says that Muthappan was part of a tribe, so he was interested in his community and made a friend there. His friend's name was Chantan, who was once tapping the toddy. Muthappan asks him for Toddy and his friend denies it. This angers Muthappan, and he curses Chantan.

Upon this, Chantan became a stone. Then in the Dhanu month, his wife prayed and performed Amruthakalasam, Tiruvappana, and Oottu rituals. This pleased Muthappan, and he took away the pain of the woman by giving her husband back. Since then, Chantan’s family worships Muthappan.

Some people also believe that when Chantan was not present, Muthappan went up the coconut tree and used the entire toddy jug. This made Chantan furious, and they both started arguing. This was the moment when Muthappan cursed Chantan out of rage.

In the temple, dogs also hold a significant place. Hence, people who come to worship the devotee also make offerings to the pack of dogs. The Poojas and rituals are done by the elder of the Thiyya family or Madayans.

Architecture of Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple

The temple architecture is a blend of traditional Kerala and North Indian styles. The main temple building, or sanctum sanctorum, is a square structure with a pyramid-shaped roof. The exterior of the temple is adorned with intricate carvings and ornamental motifs, and the interior is richly decorated with murals and sculptures.

The temple also has a number of other structures, including a large assembly hall, a stage for performing rituals and cultural programs, and a number of smaller shrines dedicated to other deities.

In the temple, there are two idols representing Lord Shiva and Vishnu. Here Vishnu has a fish-shaped crown, and Shiva wears a green crown with a crescent moon. Here the priest performs Theyyam, an important ritual that takes place twice a day. Special Theyyams are there for months, like Thulam and Karkidakam.

Festivals of Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple

An annual festival happens on December 1, during which the entire temple receives decoration, and the environment becomes pious. This is a great time to see the temple in its full glory. So if you are planning to visit Sri Muthappan Temple, you can plan a trip this December. Also, this is the best month to visit the temple as the weather in Kerala remains pleasant.

God is given different offerings, such as kallu and dried fish. Sometimes the offering of coconut water also. Special offerings are made on special occasions.

The temple is open to any religion and not just Hindus. You also receive the meal, which is free of cost. Devotees receive black beans and tea as Prasadam.

Benefits of worshipping in Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple

Since the Lord was into helping poor and backward communities, many charitable events take place. The temple authorities provide free education to children and free meals. They also provide medical assistance to some extent and help those who don't have enough resources.