Vettikulangara Devi Temple, located near Harippad in the Alappuzha district of Kerala, India, is one of the oldest temples in the state. This ancient temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is also known as Karthiyayini Devi Temple.
History:
In ancient times, people in the region worshipped Lord Mahadeva. The temple’s history is intertwined with the arrival of a Brahmin Scholar named Thampuran from Pazhore Padippura, who played a significant role in the incarnation of Devi in this area. Thampuran, who had come from the north, settled in Nedunagappally, Ramapuram, located to the south of this region. Later, when he returned to his native place, Thampuran took with him the idol of Devi, his deity of worship. During his journey, due to the divine will of Mahadeva, the idol accidentally fell into the pond in Kannirasi. Despite strenuous efforts, Thampuran was unable to retrieve the idol. With a heavy heart, he returned to his native place. Several years later, members of the Naluveettil family found the idol of Devi while digging the pond.
During the excavation, the digging implements accidentally hit the idol, causing blood to ooze from it. Realizing the sanctity and significance of Devi, the people took possession of the idol with great devotion and began worshipping it. Since the idol was discovered during the excavation of the pond, the temple came to be known as “Vettikulangara.” To this day, the temple maintains the purity and antiquity of the pond where the idol was found.
Deities:
The primary deity of the temple is Sri Karthyayani Devi, who is revered as Adi Parashakti, the mother of mercy and the giver of vitality. In addition to the main deity, the temple also houses several other deities, including Lord Mahadeva, Lord Ganesh, Lord Ayyappan, Nagaraja, and Nagayakshi.
Festivals:
Vettikulangara Devi Temple celebrates various festivals throughout the year, attracting devotees from far and wide. Some of the notable festivals observed at the temple include:
1. Koottamkottu during Utsav: This is a special event during the temple festival.
2. Navaham (Kanni): Navaham is a ritual conducted during the Malayalam month of Kanni.
3. Sapthaham (Vrischikam): Sapthaham is a significant ritual held during the Malayalam month of Vrischikam.
4. Thrikarthika Maholsavam (Vrischikam): Thrikarthika Maholsavam is a grand celebration held during the same month.
5. Para Ezhunnallathu (Makaram): This is another important ritual during the Makaram month.
6. Thiru Utsavam (Kumbham): Thiru Utsavam is celebrated during the Malayalam month of Kumbham.
These festivals are marked by traditional music, dance performances, and cultural activities, creating a vibrant atmosphere of devotion and celebration at the temple.
How To Reach
To reach Vettikulangara Devi Temple in Cheppad, near Harippad, Alappuzha, Kerala, you have multiple transportation options:
By Air:
The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, approximately 112 kilometers from the temple. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use local transportation.
By Rail:
The nearest railway stations are Cheppad Railway Station (1.5 kilometers away), Haripad Railway Station (6 kilometers away), and Kayamkulam Junction Railway Station (12 kilometers away). You can take a train to one of these stations and then hire a taxi or use local transportation to reach the temple.
By Road:
If you prefer road travel, you can reach the temple by bus or private vehicle. Nearby bus stations include Cheppad Bus Stop (1 kilometer away), Harippad KSRTC Bus Stand (5.8 kilometers away), Kayamkulam KSRTC Bus Stand (12 kilometers away), and Nangiarkulangara Bus Stop (3 kilometers away). You can take a bus to one of these stops or hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from nearby towns or bus stands to reach the temple.
Vettikulangara Devi Temple is well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it accessible from various parts of Kerala and beyond. Choose the most convenient mode of transportation based on your location and preferences to visit the temple.
