Punkunnam Kuttankulangara Sri Krishna Temple – Sanctum of Santanagopala Murthy in Thrissur

November 09, 2025 , , , , , , ,

Location

  • Temple Name: Kuttankulangara Sri Krishna Temple
  • Area: Punkunnam, Thrissur District
  • State: Kerala, India
  • Proximity: Just 500 meters from Punkunnam Railway Station

Main Deity and Sub-Shrines

Primary Deity

  • Lord Sri Krishna as Santanagopala Murthy
    • Worshipped for progeny blessings and family prosperity

Sub-Shrines

  • Lord Ganesha
  • Goddess Bhagavathy (Devi)
  • Serpent God (Nagarajavu)
  • Sacred Serpent Grove (Sarpakavu) – adds to the temple’s spiritual depth

Temple Significance

  • Historical Age: Estimated to be 300–700 years old, though it gained prominence in the last few decades
  • Architectural Style: Traditional Kerala temple architecture
  • Unique Ritual:
    • Pannivetta – A symbolic pig hunt ritual performed during the annual festival
      • A pig effigy is placed near the Banyan tree (Aalthara) and ceremonially shot with an arrow
  • Festivals:
    • Annual Utsavam held in Makaram month (January–February)
    • Includes Ayursooktha Pushpanjali and Avil Nivedyam offerings

History & Legends

  • The temple is believed to be over 300 years old, with local traditions suggesting its origins date back even further.
  • It is dedicated to Lord Sri Krishna as Santanagopala Murthy, a form revered for granting progeny and family well-being.
  • According to legend, the temple was built by local devotees who experienced divine visions of Lord Krishna near the sacred pond (kulangara)—hence the name Kuttankulangara.
  • The temple gained prominence in the 20th century due to its unique rituals and growing spiritual following in Thrissur.

Architectural Features

  • Built in traditional Kerala temple architecture, the temple features:
    • A square sanctum (sreekovil) with sloping tiled roof
    • A namaskara mandapam for offerings and prayers
    • A chuttambalam (outer hall) surrounding the sanctum
  • The temple’s layout emphasizes simplicity, symmetry, and spiritual intimacy, typical of Kerala’s temple design ethos

Rituals and Worship Practices

  • Daily Pujas: Traditional Kerala-style worship is offered to Sri Krishna as Santanagopala Murthy, focusing on blessings for children and family well-being.
  • Offerings: Devotees commonly offer:
    • Avil Nivedyam (flattened rice)
    • Ayursooktha Pushpanjali (flower offerings for health and longevity)
  • Special Pujas: Conducted during auspicious days and Krishna-related festivals, often accompanied by Vedic chanting and bhajans.

Major Festival – Makaram Utsavam

  • Timing: Celebrated annually in the Malayalam month of Makaram (January–February)
  • Highlight Ritual – Pannivetta:
    • A symbolic pig hunt ritual
    • A pig effigy is placed near the Aalthara (sacred banyan tree)
    • A ceremonial hunter shoots the effigy with an arrow
    • Symbolizes the destruction of evil and purification of the land
  • The festival includes:
    • Processions, cultural programs, and devotional music
    • Community participation and annadanam (food offerings)

Beliefs and Devotional Significance

  • Santanagopala Murthy is worshipped for:
    • Blessings of progeny (children)
    • Family harmony and prosperity
  • The temple is considered a powerful spiritual center for couples seeking children
  • The Pannivetta ritual is believed to ward off negativity and ensure community well-being
  • Devotees believe that sincere prayers here lead to fulfillment of heartfelt wishes, especially related to family life

Temple Hours

  • Morning: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM
  • Evening: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  • Note: Timings may vary slightly on festival days or special occasions like Makaram Utsavam

Getting There

  • Nearest Railway Station: Punkunnam Railway Station – just 500 meters from the temple
  • By Road: Easily reachable from Thrissur city center via auto, taxi, or local buses
  • Landmark: Located in the Kuttankulangara ward of Thrissur Municipal Corporation

Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning hours for serene darshan and to witness daily rituals
  • Dress Modestly: Traditional attire is preferred; avoid western or revealing clothing
  • Respect Local Customs: Observe silence near the sanctum and follow temple etiquette
  • Photography: May be restricted inside the sanctum; check with temple staff
  • Offerings: Avil Nivedyam and Ayursooktha Pushpanjali are popular; available at temple counters
  • Festival Days: Expect crowds during Makaram Utsavam and Pannivetta ritual; arrive early
  • Cleanliness: Maintain the sanctity of the premises; use designated bins for waste
  • Children: Keep ID cards with contact info for safety during festivals

Post a Comment

No comments

Subscribe to: Post Comments ( Atom )