Mandalam Pilgrimage Gateway: Akamala Sree Dharmasastha Temple, Thrissur

 

Location

• Address: SH22, Mullurkara, Thrissur District, Kerala 680590
• Nearest Railway Station: Mullurkara Railway Station (approx. 1.5 km away)
• Route Access: Located on the Wadakkanchery–Chelakkara–Palakkad route

Main Deity and Subshrines

• Presiding Deity: Lord Dharmasastha (Ayyappa), depicted holding a bow and arrow, carved in stone, facing east
• Upa Devatas (Subshrines):
• Durga – symbolizing Shakti
• Rakshas – guardian spirit
• Nagam – serpent deity associated with fertility and protection

Temple Significance

• Spiritual Importance:
• Recognized as one of the 108 Ayyappa temples in Kerala, making it a vital pilgrimage site
• Known in Thottam Pattu traditions as Paruthipuraikavu, linking it to local folklore and oral traditions
• Ritual Highlights:
• Mandalam season and first Saturdays of Malayalam months are especially auspicious
• Devotees perform Kettunira and Malaidal rituals here before embarking on Sabarimala pilgrimage
• Theeyattu, a ritualistic dance-drama, is performed with great reverence
• Offerings:
• Elluthiri and Dhaara are popular offerings
• Annadhanam (free meals) is served during major observances

History and Legends

• Parasurama’s Vision: According to Keralotpatti and Ayyappan Theeyattu traditions, Sage Parasurama performed penance to Lord Sastha, who promised to reside in Kerala to protect the land. He then established 108 Sastha shrines, including Akamala.
• Paruthipuraikavu Connection: The temple is referred to as Paruthipuraikavu in Thottam Pattu, linking it to a sacred grove tradition. A nearby place called Paruthipara (2 km away) reinforces this association.
• Forest Shrine Ethos: Sastha temples were often built in dense groves or hillocks, symbolizing the deity’s role as a guardian of nature and dharma. Akamala’s location and rituals reflect this ethos.

Architecture

• Sanctum Orientation: The main sanctum (sreekovil) faces east, housing a stone-carved image of Lord Dharmasastha holding a bow and arrow.
• Traditional Kerala Style: The temple follows the nalukettu layout with tiled roofs, wooden beams, and a serene forest backdrop, typical of Sastha shrines.
• Subshrines: Dedicated spaces for Durga, Rakshas, and Nagam are integrated into the temple complex, enhancing its ritual diversity.
• Ritual Space: The temple courtyard accommodates Theeyattu performances and Kettunira rituals, with offerings like Elluthiri and Dhaara performed in designated areas.

Key Rituals

• Kettunira & Malaidal: Performed by devotees before embarking on the Sabarimala pilgrimage. The temple is a preparatory spiritual stop for Ayyappa devotees.
• Elluthiri: A unique offering involving lighting lamps with sesame oil and wicks, symbolizing purification and devotion.
• Dhaara: Continuous pouring of sacred water or oil over the deity, invoking blessings and spiritual cleansing.
• Theeyattu: A ritualistic dance-drama performed in front of the sanctum, narrating Sastha legends and invoking divine presence.
• Aayursooktha Pushpanjali: A special flower offering ritual for long life and well-being.

Major Festivals

• Mandalam Season (Mid-Nov to Mid-Jan):
• Most significant period for Sastha worship.
• Daily poojas, annadhanam (free meals), and special rituals attract hundreds of devotees.
• First Saturday of Every Malayalam Month:
• Considered highly auspicious.
• Special darshan, offerings, and annadhanam are organized.

Beliefs and Devotional Significance

• Protector of Dharma: Devotees believe Lord Dharmasastha safeguards righteousness and offers strength to overcome obstacles.
• Pilgrimage Blessings: The temple is a spiritual gateway for Sabarimala pilgrims, believed to purify and empower them for the journey.
• Healing and Longevity: Rituals like Aayursooktha Pushpanjali are performed for health, longevity, and relief from ailments.
• Nature and Spirit Connection: The temple’s forested setting and association with Paruthipuraikavu reflect Sastha’s role as a guardian of nature and sacred groves.

Temple Hours

• Morning Hours: 4:30 AM to 11:30 AM
• Evening Hours: 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
• Peak Ritual Times: Early morning poojas and Saturday evenings during Mandalam season (mid-Nov to mid-Jan) are most vibrant.

Getting Here

• Location: SH22, Mullurkara, Thrissur District, Kerala 680590
• Nearest Railway Station: Mullurkara Railway Station – approx. 1.5 km from the temple
• By Road:
• From Thrissur: Take the Wadakkanchery–Chelakkara–Palakkad route
• From Palakkad: Accessible via Chelakkara and Mullurkara junction
• Public Transport: Local buses and autos are available from Mullurkara town

Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Mandalam season (mid-Nov to mid-Jan) and first Saturdays of Malayalam months for full ritual experience
• Footwear & Dress Code: Traditional Kerala temples require removal of footwear and modest attire (dhoti/saree preferred)
• Offerings to Prepare: Elluthiri, Dhaara, and Aayursooktha Pushpanjali are popular; check with temple office for rates
• Nearby Sites: Visit Paruthipara (2 km away), linked to the temple’s legend as Paruthipuraikavu
• Photography: Usually restricted inside sanctum; seek permission for outer premises
• Language: Malayalam is predominant; basic Tamil and English are understood by temple staff