One of the famous temples in Kerala, Ernakulam Shiva Temple, also known as Ernakulathappan Temple, is located in the heart of Ernakulam, in the port city of Kochi. The Ernakulam Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is believed to be the protector of the city as per the locals.
Ernakulam Shiva Temple History
The temple’s history goes a long way back. Ernakulum Shiva Temple has also been mentioned in the Mahabharata. It has been stated in the Sangam Literature and is believed as one of the Ernakulam famous temples under the Chera Dynasty.
Another notable story dates back to the 16th century. During the Siege of Fort Kochi, the Kochi rulers moved their capital to Ernakulam and made a Palace overlooking the pond of this temple. Later, the temple was declared the protector of Ernakulam.
Inside the Ernakulam Shiva Temple
The main deity of the Ernakulam temple, the Gourishankar form of Lord Shiva, is housed in the main sanctum sanctorum. The lingam in the main sanctum is called “Swayambhoo”. On the northern side of the main sanctum is the small shrine of ‘Kirthamoorthy’. It is believed to shelter the real Lingam, worshiped by Arjuna.
The southern side of the temple has a small shrine of Lord Ganesha. Located behind the main sanctum is an idol of Goddess Parvati. The temple also offers the pilgrims the blessings of Lord Ayappa and Nagaraja.
Ernakulam Shiva Temple Festivals
The Ernakulam Shiva Temple is the center of festivities and celebrations in Ernakulam ‘Uthsavom’, celebrated in December-January. The festival begins with Kodiyettam, the hoisting of the temple flag.
Pakalpooram is a procession arranged on the seventh day, where the deity is taken for a yatra on dressed-up elephants. On the last day of the festival, a solemn ceremony is held in the evening. The temple flag is brought down, and the deity is taken for the holy bath (Arattu) to the tank of the temple.
Various cultural programs then follow the festival. Temple arts like Paatakam, Thayambaka, Ottamthullal, Classical dances, Kathakali, Classical music concerts, Bhajans, etc., make the occasion all the more wonderful.
Plan a trip to Kochi with our Kochi holiday packages and take blessings of the supreme being, Lord Shiva.
