Sarkaradevi Temple
Sarkaradevi Temple is an iconic temple located in the Chirayinkeezhu town of Thiruvananthapuram district, South India. The temple holds a significant position for many reasons, especially due to the introduction of the famous Kaliyoot festival by Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma, the Travancore sovereign, in 1748. Interestingly, the Sarkaradevi Temple shares a close bond with Nakramcode Devi Temple located in Avanavanchery, Attingal.
The temple's origin story dates back to the time when the area had a sparse population. According to legend, a group of merchants who were trading molasses decided to halt at a roadside shelter in the area. As they resumed their journey, they found that one of their pots was immovable. Upon further inspection, the pot broke apart, and an idol emerged. Upon hearing about the miracle, the villagers constructed a temple and consecrated the idol there. The goddess, as she appeared from Sarkara (Malayalam word for Molasses), became popular as Sarkara Devi.
Kaliyoottu was initially a ritual that existed in the north Malabar region. The credit for bringing this ritual to the southern parts of Kerala goes to King Marthanda Varma of Odanad (1729–1758). Legend has it that King Marthanda Varma had attempted several times to annex the Kingdom of Kayamkulam. He eventually succeeded in his quest, and it was during one such attempt that he rested near the Sarkara temple. There, he learned about the powers of Sarkara Devi and promised to offer her a Kaliyoot if she blessed him to win the war. After he emerged victorious, he kept his promise and offered a Kaliyoot to the goddess.
Location
Chirayinkeezhu
Main Deity
Goddess Bhadrakali
Other Deities
Lord Ganesha, Yakshi Amma, Madan & Naga Deity.
Festivals
Pongala, Kaliyoottu & Meena Bharani.
Main Offerings
Ganapathi Homam, Ashthadravya Ganapathy Homam, Bhagavathi Seva, Ashtothara Archana, Raktha Pushpanjali, Ashtothara Archana & Raktha Pushpanjali.
How To Reach
By Air: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is situated 27.4 KM from the Temple.
By Rail: Thiruvananthapuram Railway Station is situated 32.4 KM from the Temple.
By Road: Thiruvananthapuram KSRTC Bus Stand is situated 32.6 KM from the Temple.