Chengannur Mahadeva Temple
Chengannur Mahadeva Temple is one of the oldest and famous temple, situated in the Allappuzha district of Kerala. It is a sprawling temple complex with a circular Sanctum. Differing from other temples, there are two main Shrines in this temple - Lord Shiva facing the East and Goddess facing the West. The main shrine is a conical copper plated one. Devi’s main Idol is made with an alloy of five metals (PANCHALOHAM). The Shivalingam, is covered with a gold plate bearing an image of Ardhanareeswara (Shiva-Shakti manifestation of Shiva).
The temple was constructed centuries back in accordance with an architectural design evolved by the famous Perunthachan. In the 18th Century the temple complex was damaged by fire and renovated later by Vanghipuzha Thampuran except the Kuthambalam (Performance Hall). This could not be restored to its original position as it had been designed and constructed by Perunthachan. The structure of the Kuthambalam originally constructed by Perunthachan was in such a manner that the shadow of the performer would not fall on the stage if all the lamps were lit on each of the post of the Kuthambalam. The mukhamandapam in front of the temple and other mandapams in this temple are full of exquisite woodwork.
Compared to other temples, this temple has a peculiarity of its own, quiet distinct from other temples.
Location
Chengannur
Main Deity
Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi
Other Deities
Lord Ganesha, Lord Ayyappa, Chandikeswaran, Neelagrivan, Ganga, and Naagas
Festivals
Triputharattu
Main Offerings
Aravana, Vella Nivedyam, Appam, Palpayasam, Thrimadhuram
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