The Kottiyoor Vysakha Mahotsavam, is a famous annual festival held in the northern part of Kerala, India. It is one of the most significant and ancient temple festivals in Kerala and is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. The festival takes place at the Kottiyoor Temple, also known as Akkare Kottiyoor or Ikkare Kottiyoor, which is situated in the serene and lush forests of the Western Ghats.
Vysakha Mahotsavam is a 28-day annual pilgrimage observed by Hindus commemorating the Mythology of Daksha Yaga. The pilgrimage is similar to the Kumbh Mela of Prayag, where ablutions are performed. The temple and grounds are also known as Dakshina Kasi.
The Vaisakha Maholsavam festival is held every year during the months of June – June. The twenty eight day festival commences with the Neyyattam ritual on the Swati Day in Edavam and concludes with the Thrikkalashaattu.
The Vaisakha Maholsavam celebrations begin with the ritual of bringing a sword from Muthirerikavu from Wayanad. On the following day, on Visakham star Bhandaram Ezhunnallath ritual is held. Gold, Silver vessels, heavenly ornaments etc are brought from nearby Manathana village to Kottiyoor.
An important ritual during the festival is the ‘Elaneer Vayppu’ or submitting tender coconuts before the swayambhu Shiva linga. On this special day, thousands of tender coconuts carried from different parts of Malabar by the devotees are submitted. The following day, the main priest of the temple, pours the collected coconut water on to the idol which is known as ‘Elaneeraattam’.
Rohini Aaradhana is a very important ritual which is not seen in any other temple. The priest embraces the swayambhu Shiva linga as part of the ritual. The belief behind this ritual is that Brahma himself worships Lord Shiva to pacify for the loss of Sati.
As a part of the festival, a procession (Ezhunnallippu) is held with two elephants carrying the idols of Lord Shiva and Parvathi. After the procession, the elephants are fed well (Aanayootu) and given a formal farewell.
The temple’s location in the Western Ghats adds to the festival’s charm. The lush greenery, flowing rivers, and serene atmosphere make it a unique and spiritually enriching experience.
Kottiyoor Vysakha Mahotsavam is not only a religious event but also a cultural and social gathering that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. It draws devotees, tourists, and artists from various parts of the country and offers a unique glimpse into the traditions and spirituality of the region.
