Sree Madiyan Koolom Kshetram

Sree Madiyan Koolom Kshetram is a sacred kaavu in Kanhangad, Ajannur, Kasargod, Kerala, where Theyyam is performed from May–June (Kalasam). Find theyyam forms, history, visitor info, and directions.

Location: Kanhangad, Ajannur, Kasargod

Performance dates: May–June (Kalasam)

Frequency: 1 year

Theyyams performed: 6 ritual forms

About This Temple

A 500-year-old temple at Ajannur, approximately 5 km from Kanhangad, Kasaragod, dedicated to Kshetrapalakan Eswaran and Kalarathri Amma (Bhadrakali). One of the most prominent temples in Kasaragod, its annual Kalasam in May–June marks a key point in the Nileshwar ritual calendar, after which the Theyyam festival at Mannanpurathu Kavu is held.

History

Sree Madiyan Koolom Kshetram is one of the most prominent and oldest temples in Kasaragod district, with a history spanning approximately 500 years.

The temple is dedicated to Kshetrapalakan Eswaran and Kalarathri Amma (a fierce form of Bhadrakali). Its name, Madiyan Koolom, refers to the sacred tank (koolom) associated with the Madiyan deity tradition.

The annual Kalasam festival in May–June is a key event in the Nileshwar area's ritual calendar. By tradition, the Theyyam festival at Mannanpurathu Kavu in Nileshwar town is held only after the Kalasam of Madiyan Koolom is completed, reflecting a deep ritual interdependency between the two shrines.

The temple is featured in Kerala Tourism's documentation of significant Theyyam venues in Kasaragod.

Rituals

• Kalasam: The annual Kalasam ceremony in May–June, which marks the ritual opening of the festival season for connected shrines including Mannanpurathu Kavu.
• Theyyam: Annual Theyyam performances dedicated to Kshetrapalakan and Kalarathri Amma during the festival season.

Visitor Guidelines

• Maintain respectful silence during rituals and Theyyam performances
• Dress modestly and traditionally
• Remove footwear before entering the temple