Kodakkad Sri Panayakkattu Bhagavathy Sthanam

Kodakkad Sri Panayakkattu Bhagavathy Sthanam is a sacred kaavu in Kodakkad, Karivellur, Kannur, Kerala, where Theyyam is performed. Find theyyam forms, history, visitor info, and directions.

Location: Kodakkad, Karivellur, Kannur

Frequency: 1 year

Theyyams performed: 6 ritual forms

About This Temple

Located in the Olat area of Kodakkad, northeast of Karivellur, this sacred site is the abode of the renowned Panayakkattu Bhagavathy and her attendant deities. Regarded as a source of prosperity and blessing for the entire region, the shrine is distinguished by its unique Theyyam form and rich ritual traditions belonging to the Maniyani community.

History

Located in the Olat area of Kodakkad, northeast of Karivellur, this sacred site is regarded as a source of prosperity and blessing for the entire region. It is the abode of the renowned Panayakkattu Bhagavathy and her attendant deities. The shrine traditionally belongs to the Maniyani community.

According to tradition, the members of the community originally intended to build a shrine and install Kannangattu Bhagavathy at the present location. With this purpose in mind, a local representative travelled to Alappadamba Kannangattu to pay homage to the goddess. On his return journey, he passed through Kankol. At that time, Panayakkattu Bhagavathy, who resided in the Kankol region, became captivated by the beauty of Kodakkad and followed him back. Upon reaching home, the man's ceremonial umbrella was seen trembling and moving on its own. A ritual divination (Prashna) was conducted, which revealed that Panayakkattu Bhagavathy had arrived at the site. It was further revealed that the place intended for Kannangattu Bhagavathy should instead house a combined manifestation of both goddesses. Accordingly, a sacred shrine (Palliyara) was constructed amidst the lush green landscape beside the paddy fields, and the deity was ceremonially installed there.

The form of Panayakkattu Bhagavathy worshipped here is distinct from other manifestations of the goddess. The ritual begins with a slow and restrained style of dance and gradually culminates in a fast and energetic performance. Ceremonies associated with Kannangattu Bhagavathy are performed before the Bhagavathy Theyyam emerges. Rituals such as Meleri Kaiyelkkal, the participation of the Velichappadu (oracle), and many ceremonies connected with Pandal Mangalam can be witnessed here. The goddess appears adorned with Arayoda (waist ornament), Pantham (ritual torch), and Vattamudi (circular headgear). The hanging garland attached to the headgear recalls the iconography of Kannangattu Bhagavathy. The Theyyam concludes with the ritual known as Aradikkal.

The annual Kaliyattam is conducted over three days, and every year enormous crowds gather seeking the blessings of the goddess. Alongside Panayakkattu Bhagavathy, the Theyyams of Pulikandan, Vishnumoorthi, Raktha Chamundi, Pallakkari Vedan, and Kattu Moorthi are also performed. One of the most notable features of the festival is the ritual meeting and conversation between Bhagavathy and Kattu Moorthi. Over the years, Panayakkattu has also produced and nurtured many distinguished Theyyam performers who have become part of the temple's ritual tradition.

Even today, Panayakkattamma continues to stand as the source of prosperity, protection, and divine grace for the entire region.

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