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Revival of Maghamaka Mahotsava

Kerala, nestled between the majestic Western Ghats and the vast Arabian Sea, has a history steeped in culture and tradition. The region now known as Malappuram district was once a thriving center of Vedic learning and religious practices. This sacred land, home to many deities and their temples, witnessed grand festivals celebrating divine traditions—some of which were lost over time due to historical upheavals.

reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava
reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava

Among these ancient celebrations, Maghamaka Mahotsava stands out as Kerala’s oldest river festival, held on the banks of the sacred Bharatapuzha River during the auspicious month of Makam. Rooted in Kerala’s deep Vedic heritage, this festival was traditionally conducted under the patronage of Kerala’s ruling kings. However, its observance came to an abrupt halt in 1766 AD following the invasions of Hyder Ali and later Tipu Sultan.

reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava

In 2019, in an earnest endeavor to revive this lost legacy, the Oral History Research Foundation and UgraNarasimha Charitable Trust rekindled the festival. This historic revival continues with the Maghamaka Mahotsava 2020, set to take place on the sacred banks of Bharatapuzha in the villages of Thirunavaya and Thavanur, Malappuram.

Maghamaka Mahotsava 2020

reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava
reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava

From January 10 to 12, 2020, under the spiritual guidance of the revered Devi Upasaka, Tantric Acharya, and Srividya Sadhaka, Shri Ramesh Nataraj Iyer (GRD Iyers Gurucool, Canada), over 100 ritwiks from Canada, the USA, Singapore, and various states across India gathered to perform the Dwi Shata Chandi Yagam and Maha Rudra Homam at Tavanoor—the Trimurti Sangam, where Parashurama is believed to have undertaken intense penance.

reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava

The spiritual celebrations culminated at sunrise on January 13, 2020, with a series of sacred rituals led by the esteemed Brahmashri Chidanandapuri. These included the Nila Puja, Nila Arati, Nila Snanam, Sanyasi Sangamam, and Yati Puja at the historic Navamukunda temple premises.

Shata Chandi Mahayajna

reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava

Conducted on January 10-11, 2020, this grand Yajna, performed as per the Sri Vidya tradition, took place in the very village where Sage Parashurama is said to have organized a similar sacred fire ritual eons ago.

Rudra Mahayajna

reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava

On January 12, 2020, the Rudra Mahayajna was conducted with great devotion. Devotees had the rare opportunity to perform the Abhisheka of a Shivling consecrated at the sacred Yagabhumi.

The Legacy of Maghamaka Mahotsava

reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava
reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava
reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava

The origins of Maghamaka Mahotsava are deeply embedded in Hindu scriptures. The Puranas and other Smritis attest to its conception by Parashurama. Literary works from the Sangha period, such as the Divyaprabandham, reaffirm this tradition. European historians like Hamilton and Jonathan Duncan, along with accounts from the Kozhikode Samoothiri Raja to the British throne in 1810, provide additional evidence of Bharatapuzha’s Maghamaka festivities.

According to legend, Parashurama, seeking prosperity and protection for Kerala, requested Brahma to conduct a grand yaga. The ritual was initially planned at Anamudi, Tamil Nadu. However, a dispute arose between Saraswati and Gayatri over the position of Yajamanapatni. Their subsequent curse upon each other resulted in their transformation into rivers that absorbed the sins of humanity, leading to the postponement of the Yaga. Eventually, the ceremony was conducted at Tapasannur (present-day Tavannur), a place sanctified by the penance of sages.

reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava
reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava

This grand Yajna, lasting 28 days, was attended by the Trimurtis—Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva—along with celestial beings and enlightened sages. The sanctity of the ritual led to the emergence of the holy Bharatapuzha River, enriched by the divine presence of Ganga, Gayatri, and Saraswati during the month of Magha. This spiritual significance led devotees from distant lands to flock to Nila River for a sacred dip, believing it would absolve them of sins accumulated over lifetimes.

The first Cheraman Perumal, anointed in Tirunavaya, oversaw the organized conduct of this grand festival. From that point, the right to host Mamankam—an evolution of Maghamaka Mahotsava—was established. Over centuries, the festival transitioned from an annual event to being held every three years, and eventually, every 12 years.

reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava
reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava

However, the tides of history turned violent. During one such Mamankam, the ruling Valluvakonathiri was assassinated by a faction led by Tirumanassery, paving the way for Kozhikode’s Samoothiri to claim control. This marked the beginning of bloodshed at the once-sacred festival. The history of Mamankam that survives today is largely from the era of Chekavars (warriors), while its ancient traditions remain obscure to modern generations.

The last recorded Maghamaka Utsava took place in 1766 AD. Following the invasions of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, the festival faded into oblivion.

The Vision of Maghamaka Mahotsava

reclaimtemples - maghamaka mahotsava
reclaimtemples - maghamaka mahotsava
reclaimtemples - maghamaka mahotsava

The revival of Maghamaka Mahotsava aims not only to restore a lost tradition but also to rejuvenate the ancient Vedic villages of Thavanur and Thirunavaya. Thavanur, home to Kerala’s first Vedic Pathshala, now stands silent, devoid of its once-thriving scholarly pursuits. We believe that reviving this sacred river festival, along with its accompanying Yajnas, will restore prosperity to the region and bring spiritual enrichment to all participants.

Maghamaka Mahotsava 2020: A Glorious Revival

The Maha Rudra Yajna and Dwi Shata Chandi Yajna were successfully conducted with Shri Ramesh Natarajan and Smt. Gayatri Natarajan of GRD Iyer Gurucool as Acharyas. Over 100 Ritwiks from across Bharat and the world participated in this monumental Yajna from January 10-12, 2020.

reclaimtemples - maghamaka mahotsava

During these sacred days, thousands of devotees gathered at the Yajnabhumi, witnessing and partaking in the divine rituals. The Abhisheka of the consecrated Shivling became a highlight, symbolizing the sanctity of the land and the power of devotion.

reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava
reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava

On January 13, 2020, a magnificent Nila Arati and Nila Puja were conducted on the banks of Bharatapuzha, led by revered Sanyasis and Sadhus. The sacred waters, believed to embody the presence of all holy rivers during this auspicious period, saw the ceremonial dip of sages who had assembled for the event. Swami Chidananda Puri of Advaitashram delivered an inspiring discourse to the gathered ascetics.

reclaimtemples - maghamaka mahotsava
reclaimtemples - maghamaka mahotsava

After being lost for over 250 years, the Maghamaka Mahotsava has finally returned. With the unwavering support of organizations and individuals, we hope to see it grow in grandeur, reclaiming its status as one of the most revered festivals of ancient Bharat.

May the sacred traditions of Maghamaka continue to flourish, restoring Dharma and prosperity to this blessed land.

reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava
reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava
reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava
reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava
reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava
reclaimtemples-maghamaka mahotsava

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Thalakkadkavu Bhagavati Temple

Temple discovered in ruins

Initially the temple was discovered in ruins and the deities were missing and partially broken. This is the result of 1921 riots during which, many such temples in the region were found destroyed mercilessly.

Thalakkadkavu Bhagavati temple in Malappuram Kerala has been lying in ruins for many centuries. The temple was destroyed during the invasions of Hyder Ali, the father of Tipu Sultan.

Due to the religious persecution of Hindus in Malappuram, the local community has been unable to restore the temple. However the devotees has been lighting a lamp at the temple and praying for the restoration for many decades.

The temple was located as part of the #ReclaimTemples project to restore and revive 300 ancient temples.

The devotees of the locality has been organised into a committee and the initial steps in the restoration of temple has been completed.

Architecture

The restoration plan of the temple has also been prepared by vastushastra experts. The restoration of the Garbagriha is estimated to costs ten lakh rupees and is being undertaken.

The locality has many devotees and the temple will play a major role in community development and strengthening initiatives in the region.
UPDATES:

28 Dec 2020; Devaprashnam to identify the nature of Divine and the the restoration and rituals require

5 Apr 2021: Measurements of the temple marked on ground

15 Jul 2021: Deity shifted to Balalaya / Temporary Garbagriha (Thalakkadkavu Bhagavati temple

25 Aug 2021: Shilanyas of the temple (Thalakkadkavu Bhagavati temple)

13 Dec 2021: Stone door frames installation

Apr 2022:

Oct 2022:

The Garbagriha has been completed and the temple has been handed over to the committee of devotees.

Keezhsserry Mahavishnu Temple

THEN – THE TEMPLE WAS LYING IN RUINS, AND THE DEITIES WERE BROKEN, WHICH WERE THE RESULT OF THE RIOTS.

NOW – TEMPLE STANDS IN A REVIVED CONDITION, REGULAR PUJAS ARE NOW OFFERED.

ABOUT THE TEMPLE – Keezhsserry Mahavishnu temple in Pattithara Panchayat in Palakkad district of Kerala has been lying in ruins for many decades. This is a very ancient temple where large festivals happened once. The situation of this ancient temple will bring gloom to the minds of every devotee.

A section of the Garbagriha has fallen down and wild trees has invaded the temple compound. The Deity Mahavishnu who was once worshiped by the people of whole village is now in ruins without worship and devoid of any prayers.

The people of the locality has been trying to restore the temple but couldn’t do it for lack of resources. UgraNarasimha Charitable Trust has resolved to restore the temple and revive worship. We believe that the restoration of this ancient Heritage temple will help in the revival of the culture. Also the temple can be developed as an institution that will help in the social, mental and spiritual well being of the society.

This is the eighth ancient Heritage temple being restored by UgraNarasimha Charitable Trust as part of the project to restore 300 ancient temples that are now lying in ruins.

Dismantling of the old Garbagriha – Restoration of the temple is proceeding well. The restoration work started with dismantling of the old Garbagriha which was completely ruined.

Shilanyas Ceremony – The Shilanyas ceremony was conducted on 21.10.2020. The foundation of the temple was strengthened so that it can remain intact for centuries to come. Next important was the installation of the door frames of the temple which happened on 11.12.2020.

Sanctum Sanctorum – Keezhsserry Mahavishnu temple has two walls, one that of the Garbagriha and another that of the sanctum sanctorum. In other words, the Garbagriha of this Mahavishnu temple is a separate enclosure within the sanctum.

Celeing work update – We have progresseed with ceiling work and it will be soon over after the plastering is completed. We are looking forward to complete the restoration in another 90 days.

Garbagriha nearing completion – We lost a few months to lockdowns. We have restarted the work by arranging accommodation to the artisans nearby the temple and work has been happening continuously ever since.

The work is in progress. Next is the stone works of the Garbagriha which adds to the traditional looks and also as required as per shilpa shastras and agamas. We are planning to finish the restoration of Garbagriha in another 90 days.

Garbagriha complete – The Garbagriha of the ancient Keezhserry Mahavishnu temple has been completely redone with a new foundation.

The Garbagriha will be beautified before the Punah Pratishta ceremonies. We have started the work now and are looking forward to finish the Namaskara Mandapam in another two months.

Namaskara Mandapam – Now Namaskara Mandapa stands complete infront of the Garbagriha. This is the structure where pujaris postrate before the Deity while entering and exiting the Garbagriha. This is also where important havans and rituals are performed infont of the Deity.

Well Work – The well work has also started and we will soon complete the construction. This will ensure that the water used by devotees is pure and can be used for pujas and other temple related uses.

We are very happy to share that the restoration of the Keezhsserry Mahavishnu temple is complete.

When we first arrived, the temple was like below. And when we see temples and Deities in such condition, all we can think of is to start the revival of the temple and restart worship. Same happened in the case of this temple. The restoration of the temple went through many difficult phases during the pandemic when we had to stop the work and later work in very difficult situations. Everyone who took part in the project had undertook great efforts and surmounted many difficulties. The temple was handed over to devotees at a function held on 14 Jul 2022. The function was widely covered in regional newspapers and media.

Ayinikkattu Mahavishnu temple

THEN – THE TEMPLE WAS LYING IN RUINS, AND THE DEITIES WERE BROKEN, WHICH WERE THE RESULT OF THE RIOTS.

NOW – TEMPLE STANDS IN A REVIVED CONDITION, REGULAR PUJAS ARE NOW OFFERED.

ABOUT THE TEMPLE – Ayinikkatttu Mahavishnu temple is an ancient temple that is lying in ruins at Challissery in Palakkad district of Kerala. The temple has a beautiful architecture. The sight of Lord Mahavishnu smiling amidst the ruins is enough for devotees to do whatever is required for restoring the temple and restarting worship at the temple site. The temple ruins is in a region that was ravaged during the invasion of Tipu Sultan many centuries back. The temple compound bears visible marks of destruction. Another idol can be found in the temple site, which has been badly mutilated with the face and legs cut off using sharp weapons.

We have started the revival of the temple by lighting the lamp and prayers for Lord Mahavishnu. Agnisooktham was chanted along with another Mantra and ceremonial offerings were made as part of the Upacharas for Lord Mahavishnu.

As the news spread, the entire village has now come together for restarting worship at the temple.

UgraNarasimha Charitable Trust has undertaken to restore the temple and revive worship at the temple site. As the temple resurrect from the ruins, this will also cause a revival of Dharma in the region.

Restoration work started – Restoration work started on 24.9.2020. Abhisheka was performed on Lord Mahavishnu and Lord Ganesha who were lying in ruins for decades. The entire premises were cleaned up.

Shifting of the Deities to temporary Garbagriha – A temporary Garbagriha called Balalaya will be next built to house the Deities till the restoration of the temple is complete. The temple will be dismantled completely and foundation strengthened. The old stones at base will be reused if found intact or will be replaced where necessary.

The Deities Bhagavan Mahavishnu and Ganesha was shifted to a temporary Garbagriha on 8 Oct 2020. The pujas and all the rituals were performed as per the Agamas by the Chief Priest of the temple assisted by other priests.

Dismantling of the Garbagriha – The temple was completely dismantled after the Deities were shifted to the Balalaya. Each of the stones will be checked and reused if found intact and strong.

Shilanyas – The Shilanyas of the temple was conducted on 21 Oct 2020 . The rituals were performed by Chief Priest in the presence of Stapathis and devotees.

Foundation of temple redone – After Shilanyas, the foundation of the temple was strengthened. This was needed as the old temple structure had been weakened by roots of trees and other reasons induced by time.

Base of Garbagriha – As of now the work of the base of the Garbagriha is being done. The old stones are being checked, cleaned and reused if found strong. The broken stones will be replaced.

Walls of the temple completed – The second stage of restoration, ie the walls are complete. The Dwarapalakas were fitted back to the Garbagriha. The temple has a separate sanctum inside the Garbagriha and the work of sanctum is also complete. Next stage is the work of the ceiling which we are planning to start this month.

We are trying our best to complete restoration of this temple at the earliest even if there are some pandemic related restrictions. Our vision is to develop this ancient temple as an institution which will cause revival of Culture and Dharma in the village. Also as an institution which will help the devotees during distress thereby ensuring social security as well.

Garbagriha structure complete and Namaskara Mandapam is being built – The structure of the Garbagriha is complete. Beautification and ceiling works are remaining which will be completed soon. The work of Namaskara Mandapa is going on now, which is opposite to the Garbagriha. This is the place where hymns and chantings are done on special occasions. The priests prostrate here before the Deity while entering and after exiting the Garbagriha. This temple complex will become a major spiritual centre in the region, because of the Deity, Lord Mahavishnu.

Ceiling work complete – We are very happy to share that the ceiling work of the Garbagriha of Ayinikkattu Mahavishnu temple is complete.

Now only the polishing work of the stones of the Garbagriha remains. And also the work of the Namaskara Mandapa infront.

Revival of temple is complete – We are very happy to announce the successful completion of the revival of Ayinikkattu Mahavishnu temple in Palakkad Kerala. This has been made possible due to the support and contributions from your end and we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for same. This is the fifth ancient temple successfully restored by us in the past four years.

Restoration of ancient temples and revival of worship of Deities has huge significance in a person’s life and karma. And we always believe that the Gods themselves select those who can be part of this noble deed.

Challisserry Siva Temple

THEN – THE TEMPLE WAS LYING IN RUINS, AND THE DEITIES WERE BROKEN, WHICH WERE THE RESULT OF THE RIOTS.

NOW – TEMPLE STANDS IN A REVIVED CONDITION, REGULAR PUJAS ARE NOW OFFERED.

ABOUT THE TEMPLE – Challissery in Palakkad district of Kerala is a region that was ravaged during the Mysorean invasion of Kerala.

Kizhakke Pattissery Prani Mahadeva temple is one of the many ancient temples that is lying in ruins in the region.

INITIAL STATUS – Shivling is intact. But all the structures including the Garbagriha is in ruins and has to be restored. A lamp is lighted everyday by devotees of the temple.

The devotees has been trying for more than a decade to restore the temple, but couldn’t do it for lack of support. UgraNarasimha Charitable Trust has therefore undertaken to rebuild this ancient Siva temple.

Architecture – The design of the Garbagriha has been made by Sadanandan Achary, a noted expert in temple architecture. The restoration of the temple will conform to Tantrashastras.

Revival – The restoration of the temple started with strengthening the temporary roof so that work can happen even during the rains. The first stage is the construction of temporary Garbagriha where the Shivling will be shifted to during the restoration of the temple. The old Garbagriha will be dismantled and reworked after that.

The restoration of the temple will cause a revival of Dharma as all devotees and families in the village take part in the various rituals and stages involved in reviving the Siva temple.

Restoration is proceeding well – The restoration of the temple started with strengthening the temporary roof so that work can happen even during the rains. The first stage is the construction of temporary Garbagriha where the Shivling will be shifted to during the restoration of the temple. The old Garbagriha will be dismantled and reworked after that.

The restoration of the temple will cause a revival of Dharma as all devotees and families in the village take part in the various rituals and stages involved in reviving the Siva temple.

GARBAGRIHA WORK STARTED – The work of Gargbagriha has started successfully, the walls are now brought up and are starting to form the structure.

Stage 1 of walls starts to take up shape. The walls which were in crumbled condition were first dismantled and replaced with new stones.

Celeing work – The next work in line was the celeing of the garbagriha.

After decades of poor condition of the temple, the celeing had fallen down. We have replaced the roof with new celeing ensuring the architectural plan of the temple.

Plastering work completed

Namaskara Mandapam – The work of Namaskara Mandapam has started.

Namaskara mandapam is situated in front of the sanctum where the devotees and priests offer prayers and perform prostrations to the deity.

Restoration of ancient Challissery Siva temple is complete – Its a great pleasure to share with you that the restoration of Kizhakke Pattissery Prani Mahadeva temple in Palakkad Kerala is complete. The temple is restored after two and half centuries in ruins lying buried under the earth.

This restoration and revival has been made possible by you and we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for same. The entire village and devotees of Lord Shiva will forever be indebted for your support. The devotees has been trying for many decades to restore the temple and it finally has happened. I am attaching a few pictures after restoration.

The temple will be handed over to a committee of devotees who will manage the temple in a democratic manner and ensure daily Pujas and rituals.

UgraNarasimha Charitable Trust will continue to work with village community in developing the temple as a charitable institution which will ensure social security and spiritual progress for all devotees.

Punah Pratishta of Prani Mahadeva – Thanks to your support and contribution towards the restoration of the ancient Prani Mahadeva temple in Palakkad Kerala which was destroyed by Tipu Sultan many centuries back.

The restoration has been successfully undertaken and Punah Pratishta ceremonies were conducted on 17 Feb 2021. Shivlinga was shifted back to Garbagriha and worship in the temple has restarted.

There was wide participation of devotees and everybody is excited that after many centuries, Shivratri will be celebrated in the temple.

Malayambadi Narasimha Temple

THEN – THE TEMPLE WAS LYING IN RUINS, AND THE DEITIES WERE BROKEN, WHICH WERE THE RESULT OF THE RIOTS.

NOW – TEMPLE STANDS IN A REVIVED CONDITION, REGULAR PUJAS ARE NOW OFFERED.

About the temple – Malayambadi Narasimha temple at Tirur Taluk in Malappuram district of Kerala is now lying in ruins with the idols of various Gods lying mutilated in the temple compound.

The temple is believed to be destroyed during the riots that happened in the region. The recovery of idols with mutilations reveal that the damage is deliberate. Also the idols were recovered from the temple well few decades back when devotees attempted renovation.

The temple has a big pond which was encroached and taken over by the village Panchayat and which is now used as a public pond. The size of the pond reveal that the Deity is Narasimha in his fierce nature.

An old woman of the locality now lights lamp in the temple. The devotees of the village has been trying their best for the renovation and restoration of the temple, but was not able to due to lack of resources.

Design Stage – The first step in the restoration is making architecture plan and design of the Garbagriha as it existed in the past. This is done by Shilpashastra experts with knowledge of temple architecture.

Noted Tantrashastra and Shilpashastra expert Kanippayyur Kuttan Namboothirippad was entrusted the task of making the design sketch of Garbagriha.

He visited temple on 20 March 2019 to take measurement of the temple ruins. The various temple structures and their extant were also accurately identified.

Construction of temporary Garbagriha and Shifting of Deity – The first step is the construction of a temporary Garbagriha where the Lord Narasimha will be shifted to and worship till the restoration of the original Garbagriha is over. The Deity was shifted on 11.5.2019 at an auspicious time. The Deity was shifted after all due rituals as per Tantrashastra. Lamps will be lighted and regular Poojas will be held for the Deity after this.

Dismantling old Garbagriha and Shilanyas – The next process was the dismantling of the dilapidated Garbagriha and removing all stones. This was also completed within a week of the shifting of the Deity.

The Shilanyas ceremony where the stones were laid again after cleaning the foundation of the temple was held on 24.5.2019 after Poojas and rituals by the Chief Priest of the temple.

Restoration of temple well – The temple well was lying in an unusable state. The water for purpose of Poojas and Prasadam are to be taken from this temple well. Hence the temple well restoration work was undertaken and successfully completed.

Foundation and Stone Base of the Garbagriha – The first two stages of the restoration of the Garbagriha are complete as of now which is the foundation work below the ground and the stone layers which form the lower part of the Garbagriha. The stones were reused after polishing and cleaning.

Shadadhara Rituals – The temple is having Shadadhara Pratishta, which as per Tantrashastra is giving the Deity six energy centres as in human body. This involves certain elements to be placed below the ground beneath the idol. The Shadadhara rituals are scheduled on 12 July 2019. The construction of sidewalls of the temple will happen after that.

The UgraNarasimha Deity at the temple had Shadadhara Pratishta, which means six energy centres existed for the Deity. Shadadhara Pratishta involves six elements which are installed below ground and two elements above. The Shadadhara rituals for six elements below ground was conducted on 12 and 13 July 2019 by Priests trained in Tantrashastra.

After the Shadadhara rituals, the third stage of restoration started which is the walls of the Garbagriha.

Restoration of Garbagriha completed – We are very happy to share that the restoration of the Garbagriha of Malayambadi Narasimha temple.

The Punar Pratishta will happen after March 2020. Few more works are remaining like commissioning the Vigraha of Narasimha Swamy, Mandapas for other Deities and constructing Thidappally where Naivedyam for Deity will be prepared.

The Punah Pratishta Ceremonies – The Punah Pratishta ceremonies of Malayambadi Narasimha temple in Alathiyur village of Malappuram district Kerala is scheduled on 6 June 2022.

The rituals will start on 30 May 2022 evening with Acharya Varanam and will end on 6 June 2022 morning with Lord Narasmiha opening his eyes.

In this temple, Bhagwan Narasimha will consecrated as per shadadhara rituals which is very complex and powerful method of consecration.

Yajnas and Homams that will be done as part of the consecration.

Alathiyur Subrahmanya Temple

THEN – THE TEMPLE WAS LYING IN RUINS, AND THE DEITIES WERE BROKEN, WHICH WERE THE RESULT OF THE RIOTS.

NOW – TEMPLE STANDS IN A REVIVED CONDITION, REGULAR PUJAS ARE NOW OFFERED.

Restart of Worship – As part of the revival of the temple, Swami Bharati Maharaj lighted lamp and restarted worship of the Gods on 29 April 2018. A committee of devotees of the locality was also formed to ensure the worship and work for the revival.

Devaprashnam – The next process was Devaprashnam where astrologers find as per Tantrashastra the Deities to be worshipped in the temple, the temple plan and other details. The Devaprashnam rituals was conducted on 14-15 June 2018. All the devotees of the area came together in conduct for the temple rituals.

Construction work started on 23 Aug 2018, building of Balalayam complete – The construction work has started on 23 Aug 2018 with lighting lamp and prayers. The first step is the construction of a temporary building called Balalayam for housing the Subrahmanya and Ganesha Deity till the reconstruction of the Garbhagriha is complete. The construction work of the Balalayam is complete as on date.

The next step is the shifting of Deities to this Balalayam. This will be done by Priests on 10 Sep 2018. The Poojas of Deities will henceforth be done here till the construction of temple is complete.

After the Deities are shifted, the old dilapidated Garbhagriha will be dismantled, along with the foundation stones.

Foundation work of Garbagriha complete, stone work is next – Last update we mentioned that the old Garbagriha has been dismantled and the foundation work of new Garbagriha is next.

The land to the temple was under encroachment and we found difficulty in bringing in stones and heavy materials for the construction. Finally after discussion with all stakeholders volunteers cleared the way to the temple using JCB and we could bring stones and construction materials to temple on 4 Nov 2018.

The Shilanyas ceremony – The Shilanyas ceremony of the temple was held on 8 Nov 2018. The stones were laid by devotees and sthapathi after poojas by the Chief Priest. The devotees from entire village were in witness. The foundation work of the temple ie the portion below the ground is complete as on date.

The next stage involves stone works. This requires around 45 days since the Garbagriha is circular and hence the stone has to be chiselled in circular form.

The Garbagriha will be more visible after the next stage of work is completed.

Stone layers at base of Garbagriha complete – In last update we mentioned that the foundation work is complete. We are very excited to inform that the construction of stone layers which is the 2nd stage of the restoration is also now complete.

The 2nd stage consists of five stone layers. The work of door frames and other temple sculptures are also ongoing, being made by shilpis whose family has been undertaking temple work for generations.

Next is 3rd stage of construction which is the walls of the Garbagriha. The work has already started and will be completed in another 3 weeks.

The restoration work is nearing completion – We are very excited to share with you that the restoration work of the temple is nearing completion.

Stage 3 of the restoration was making the walls of the Garbagriha which was over last month ie February 2019.

Presently Stage 4 of the restoration is ongoing which is making the ceiling of the temple. The ceiling of the temple involves the stones placed in concentric circles decreasing in radius.

Though the Garbagriha will be circular in shape, the inside of the Garbagriha will be square. This is as per the Shilpa Shastra and traditional way of construction. The stage 4 will be completed this week. We are accelerating the restoration work so as to finish the entire project by this month end.

Restoration of Garbagriha of Alathiyur Subrahmanya temple is complete – On 13 April 2019, the Sthapathi handed over the key of Garbagriha to Keshavan Namboodiri, the 95 year old Namboodiri Brahmin who had protected the temple ruins for decades.

Keshavan Namboodiri inturn offered the key to the Deity who is the rightful owner of the temple. Later the key was handed over to committee formed for administration of the temple. The committee consists of all devotees in the village and the temple will be administered in a democratic manner.

Punar Prathishta ceremony – he rituals will start on 6 July 2019 and the Kumbabishekam will be on 11 Jul 2019.

The temple was lying in ruins for close to a century and the same could be revived only due to the support provided by you. The credit for revival of this temple goes to our esteemed donors like yourself and the team on ground who have gone through many difficulties in reviving this temple.

A committee of devotees from the locality has been formed for administration of the temple in a democratic manner and the Poojas and rituals will be handled by the traditional priest family attached to the temple.