The Maramkulangara Krishna Temple, situated on the Vennala – Eroor route in the state of Kerala, India, is a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna in his child form, known as Bala Krishna. This temple holds a special place in the hearts of devotees and is easily accessible by road from several key locations, including Palarivattom, Thrippunithura, and Vyttila.
Legend:
The temple has a significant legend associated with its name. It relates to the divine purpose of Lord Krishna’s incarnation, which was to vanquish the demon king Kamsa. According to the legend, Poothana, an evil demoness, attempted to harm the infant Krishna by breastfeeding him with deadly poison. However, the divine child, Lord Bala Krishna, thwarted her efforts by pulling out her soul, granting her salvation. The temple derives its name, “Maramkulangara,” from this event, which translates to “the one who killed the woman who came to kill.”
In another part of the legend, it is said that when Yashoda, Krishna’s mother, became suspicious about the poison and cried, Lord Vishnu appeared and poured nectar on the child from a well, ensuring his well-being. This well, bearing the history of the temple’s name, is believed to have water with special qualities, including the ability to protect children from evil forces. It is used to bathe infants before their “Choroonu,” a ritual of introducing solid food to a child.
History:
The temple has a rich historical connection, with Elamprakkodathu Mana, an ancient Namboodiri family that owned numerous temples in the region, including the renowned Sree Poornathrayesa Temple and Pishari Kovil Bhagavathi Temple. Elamprakkodathu Mana played a pivotal role in the construction and management of the Maramkulangara Krishna Temple.
Deities:
The Maramkulangara Krishna Temple is not limited to Lord Krishna alone. It houses several deities, including Ayyappan, Anthimahakalan, Ayayakshi, Shiva and Parvati, and Nagas (serpent deities). The temple’s diversity of deities reflects the pluralistic nature of Hindu worship in Kerala.
Specialty:
The uniqueness of this temple lies in its devotion to Lord Bala Krishna, who is believed to offer protection to young children from evil birds, a condition known as “Pakshipeeda.” Families bring their infants to the temple even before the “Choroonu” ceremony, a ritual marking a child’s first introduction to solid food. During this visit, the children are bathed in the holy water from the temple (theertham), and without wiping, they are allowed to dry naturally before entering for Darshan (viewing of the deities). This ritual is believed to invoke the blessings and protection of Lord Bala Krishna.
Festivals
The Maramkulangara Krishna Temple in Kerala celebrates various festivals and events throughout the year, with Janmashtami being one of the most significant and grandly celebrated festivals. Janmashtami, also known as Krishna Janmashtami, is the annual celebration of Lord Krishna’s birth and is one of the most revered festivals at the Maramkulangara Krishna Temple. It falls on the eighth day of the Hindu month of Bhadrapada, which usually occurs in August or September. The temple comes alive with devotion and festivity during Janmashtami. Elaborate decorations, including floral arrangements and traditional lamps, adorn the temple premises. Special pujas (prayers) and rituals are conducted to honor Lord Krishna, and devotees throng to the temple to witness and participate in these celebrations.
How to reach the temple
To reach the Maramkulangara Krishna Temple in Kerala, India, you can follow these directions:
By Air:
1. The nearest major airport is Kannur International Airport, located approximately 100-120 kilometers away from the temple.
2. After arriving at Kannur International Airport, you can hire a taxi or use other local transportation options to reach the temple.
By Rail:
1. The nearest railway station to Maramkulangara is Payyanur Railway Station, well-connected to major cities in Kerala and other parts of India.
2. From Payyanur Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or take a local train or bus to reach the temple.
By Road:
1. Maramkulangara is accessible by road and can be reached by private vehicles, taxis, or buses.
2. If you are traveling by bus, check with local bus operators for routes that pass through or terminate at Maramkulangara or nearby towns and villages.
For a more specific route from Ernakulam to the temple:
– Travel from Ernakulam to Tripunithura, heading towards Butter – Erur on Erur Main Road.
– The temple is located close to this route, making it easily accessible.
– The temple is approximately three and a half kilometers from Tripunithura.
These directions should help you reach the Maramkulangara Krishna Temple conveniently from various locations in Kerala, depending on your mode of transportation.
