Kottarakkara Mahaganapathi temple കൊട്ടാരക്കര ശ്രീ മഹാഗണപതി ക്ഷേത്രം. скачать в хорошем качестве

Kottarakkara Mahaganapathi temple കൊട്ടാരക്കര ശ്രീ മഹാഗണപതി ക്ഷേത്രം.

1. The Main Deity ​While the temple is officially the Manikanteswaram Mahadeva Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva), the idol of Ganesha (Ganapathi) is the most popular. Legend says the idol was carved from a jackfruit tree root by the master craftsman Perumthachan. ​2. The Iconic Offering: Unniyappam ​The most famous ritual at this temple is the Udayastamana Unniyappam (a sweet fried dumpling made of rice, jaggery, banana, and ghee). ​It is prepared fresh in the temple kitchen throughout the day. ​It is considered highly auspicious to offer these to the Lord to remove obstacles in life. ​3. Key Features ​Architecture: The temple follows the traditional Kerala style of architecture, with tiled roofs and wooden carvings. ​Other Deities: Besides Shiva and Ganesha, the temple houses shrines for Parvati, Murugan, Ayyappan, and Nagaraja. ​No Discrimination: Historically, the temple is known for its welcoming atmosphere and is a major pilgrimage stop for devotees heading to Sabarimala. ​4. Important Festivals ​Vinayaka Chathurthi: The birthday of Lord Ganesha is celebrated with great pomp, featuring special pujas and elephant processions. ​Maha Shivaratri: As a Shiva temple, this is also a major day of celebration. ​Visitor Information ​Location: About 25 km from Kollam city and 70 km from Thiruvananthapuram. ​Dress Code: Traditional Kerala attire is strictly followed. Men must wear a mundu (dhoti) and remain bare-chested; women usually wear sarees or long skirts (set-mundu). ​Timing: Usually open from 4:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM (times may vary during festivals).