Overview.

Parassinikkadavu Temple, also known as Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple, is a revered Hindu shrine located in the village of Parassinikkadavu near Kannur in Kerala, India. It is dedicated to the deity Muthappan, who is considered to be a manifestation of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. The temple attracts thousands of devotees and tourists from all over the country who come to seek blessings and experience the unique rituals and traditions associated with the temple.

The origin of Parassinikkadavu Temple dates back several centuries, and it holds a significant place in the cultural and religious history of Kerala. The temple is closely associated with the folklore and legends of the region. According to one popular legend, the temple came into existence when a local fisherman named Kunnathoor Adan found a baby boy floating on a coracle in the river Valapattanam. The child was taken to the nearby Madayikkavu temple, where he was adopted by the priest. The boy grew up to be Muthappan, the deity worshiped in the Parassinikkadavu Temple.

The temple's architecture is simple yet captivating. The main shrine, or sanctorum, is a small structure made of wood and thatched roof, reflecting the traditional Malabar architectural style. The temple complex also includes other structures such as the main entrance, elephant shed, and various auxiliary buildings. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery, adding to its serene and tranquil ambiance.

One of the unique aspects of the Parassinikkadavu Temple is its open-door policy, which is rare in Hindu temples. Devotees of all castes and religions are welcome to enter the temple and seek the blessings of Muthappan. This inclusive and egalitarian approach has earned the temple a reputation for its harmonious and tolerant atmosphere.

The main deity of the temple is Muthappan, who is depicted as a rustic hunter with a beard, mustache, and holding a bow and arrow. The idol is believed to be self-manifested and does not follow the conventional idol worship rituals. Instead, devotees offer prayers and offerings directly to the deity, who is considered to be ever-present and accessible.

The temple is renowned for its unique and fascinating rituals. The daily ritual of the temple involves the performance of a traditional dance form called "Theyyam" by the temple priests. They adorn themselves with elaborate costumes and masks representing various deities and perform intricate dance movements accompanied by the rhythmic beats of drums. This Theyyam performance is considered to be a form of divine worship and is a highlight of the temple's daily activities.

Another significant ritual associated with the Parassinikkadavu Temple is the offering of dried fish known as "Aaravana." Devotees believe that offering Aaravana to Muthappan brings good fortune and fulfills their wishes. The temple also has an Annadanam (free meal) program, where devotees can partake in a community meal served within the temple premises.

The temple is particularly famous for its annual festival called "Muthappan Thiruvoppana Mahotsavam." This grand festival is celebrated in the month of Kumbham (February-March) and lasts for nine days. The festival attracts a large number of devotees and features vibrant processions, cultural performances, traditional music, and dance shows. The highlight of the festival is the "Kettu Nira," where devotees carry decorated structures known as "Kettukazhcha" on their shoulders, showcasing different episodes from mythology and folklore.

The temple's location near the Valapattanam River adds to its charm. Devotees often take a dip in the river before visiting the temple, considering it to be a purifying ritual. The serene surroundings and the tranquil atmosphere of the temple create a spiritual ambiance that leaves visitors with a sense of peace and tranquility.

The Parassinikkadavu Temple is not only a religious center but also a hub of cultural activities. It promotes traditional art forms, music, and dance through regular performances and festivals. It also plays a vital role in preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the region.

In conclusion, the Parassinikkadavu Temple is a place of great spiritual significance and cultural heritage. Its inclusive nature, unique rituals, and rich history make it a popular destination for devotees and tourists alike. The temple's serene ambiance, combined with its stunning architecture and vibrant festivities, offers a memorable and immersive experience for all who visit.

5:30AM – 10:00PM