Kanjiramattom Sree Mahadeva Temple, Thodupuzha

Kanjiramattom Sree Mahadeva Temple, located on the banks of Thodupuzha River in Idukki district, is one of the famous 108 Shiva temples in Kerala. The history and legend of this temple, which is believed to be more than 1500 years old, are as follows: ​Legend and Deity ​Parashurama Deity: The main deity of the temple is the Shiva Lingam installed by Parashurama. The Lord is depicted here in a meditative posture with Goddess Parvati under the shade of a Kalpa tree. ​Fierce Aspect and West Facing: Since the deity faces west, the Lord is in a fierce posture here (Sadasivamurthy). However, to reduce this fierceness, the Thodupuzha River flows calmly just in front of the temple. ​Shiva-Parvati Yatra: Another legend says that Shiva and Parvati, who were traveling in disguise, reached the banks of this river and after bathing in the river, met on a nearby hill (rock). ​History ​Vadakkumkur Dynasty: The Shivalinga present here was visible when this area, which was previously covered in forest, was cleared for agriculture. Historical records indicate that the then Vadakkumkur king then built this temple in its present form. The structure of the temple is in the Kerala architectural style. ​Sub-deities and Celebrations ​Sub-deities: Ganapati, Amritakalasha Shasta (a separate shrine in the south-east), Durga, Vana Durga, Naga gods, Mookambika Devi, and Rakshas are the main sub-deities. ​Main Festival: Mahashivratri in the month of Kumbha is the biggest festival of this temple. Devotees from even far-off places participate in it with Yama Puja, Kalashabhishekam and Kavadi procession. ​Offerings: The main offerings here are Ilanir Abhishekam, Paneer Abhishekam, Shankhabhishekam and Rudradhara.