Mridanga Saileswari Temple, Muzhakunnu

Muzhakunnu, Kerala

Mridanga Saileswari Temple in Muzhakunnu is a revered and time-honoured place of worship that continues to inspire deep devotion among countless devotees. Surrounded by a serene atmosphere and enriched with cultural charm, the temple stands as a symbol of faith, tradition, and community bonding. Its sacred premises have witnessed generations of prayers, festivals, and rituals that reflect the spiritual heartbeat of the region. Visitors are often drawn not only by the temple’s divine presence but also by its beautiful surroundings, intricate craftsmanship, and the sense of peace it offers. Whether you are a pilgrim seeking blessings or a traveller exploring heritage sites, Mridanga Saileswari Temple remains an unmissable spiritual landmark that speaks of the region’s enduring cultural and religious legacy. As part of the broader heritage of Famous temples in Kerala, it continues to attract devotees and travellers alike.

Mridanga Saileswari Temple History and Significance

The Mridanga Saileswari Temple is one of the 108 Durga temples in ancient Kerala. It is believed to have been installed by Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu. The temple was in ruins for a long time but gained prominence after a story revealed by Alexander Jacob, a retired DGP of Kerala Police.

Mridanga Saileswari Temple Pooja Timing
Mridanga Saileswari Temple Interesting Facts
Mridanga Saileswari Temple Nearby Temples
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Mridanga Saileswari Temple Pooja Timing

Pooja Name	Timings
Nirmalya Darshanam	5:00 AM
Usha Pooja	6:30 AM
Deeparadhana	6:30 PM
Athazha Pooja	8:00 PM

Mridanga Saileswari Temple Location Details

How to Reach Mridanga Saileswari Temple

By Road:

The temple is located near Thalassery and is well-connected by road to major towns in Kerala. State Transport Buses and private taxis operate regularly from cities like Kannur, Kozhikode, and Kasaragod.

By Train:

Nearest railway stations: Kannur Railway Station and Thalassery Railway Station. From these stations, buses or taxis are available to reach the temple.

By Air:

Nearest airport: Kannur International Airport (approximately 50 km away). From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Thalassery or Kannur and then proceed to the temple via connecting towns.

Mridanga Saileswari Temple Nearby Temples

Best time to visit (season/months):

October to March is the best time to visit due to pleasant weather. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall that may disrupt travel plans.

Other Durga Temples

Legends Beliefs

The temple is closely associated with the legend of Pazhassi Raja. It is said that thieves tried to steal the temple idol three times but failed due to strange reasons. Each time, the idol was returned by the thieves themselves because of paranormal activity. This story was revealed by Alexander Jacob in a television interview.
Deities and Sub Deities

The main deity is Durga, also called Mizhavil Bhagavathi in a separate sanctum. Mizhavil Bhagavathi exists as Chandi and Chamunda in this temple. She exhibits herself as Saraswati, also called Mridanga Shaileshwari, with a predominant power of knowledge. She is the goddess of arts, especially music.Mridanga Shaileshwari can also be worshipped as Saraswati, Parvati, Lakshmi, or Chandi depending on the need. The worship is said to be incomplete unless one worships the secret Mizhavil Bhagavati in the inner sanctum.
Offerings

Devotees offer various items to the deities, including flowers, fruits, and sweets. Special offerings are made during festivals and important rituals. The temple is known for its unique offerings related to arts and music, reflecting the deity's association with knowledge and skill.
Architecture

The temple follows traditional Kerala architecture. It features a sanctum sanctorum (Srikovil) where the main deity is housed. The architecture reflects the cultural and historical significance of the region, with intricate designs and carvings.
Festivals

The temple celebrates various Hindu festivals with great fervour. Major festivals include Navaratri, which is dedicated to the worship of Durga. During these festivals, special rituals and ceremonies are conducted, attracting devotees from far and wide.
Religious Practices

Daily rituals include morning and evening prayers, along with special poojas on auspicious days. Devotees participate in these rituals to seek blessings and fulfil their vows. The temple also conducts special ceremonies for arts and music, reflecting the deity's patronage of these fields.

FAQ's

Where is the Mridanga Saileswari Temple located?

The Mridanga Saileswari Temple is located in Muzhakunnu, Kerala, India. Specifically, it is situated in the Kannur district.

Which God is Durga as Saraswati (Mridanga Shaileshwari) and Chamunda (Porkali)?

Durga as Saraswati (Mridanga Shaileshwari) and Chamunda (Porkali) is a major Hindu deity.

What is the best time to visit Mridanga Saileswari Temple?

October to March is the best time to visit due to pleasant weather. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall that may disrupt travel plans.

How to reach Mridanga Saileswari Temple from near City or Town?

Nearest railway stations: Kannur Railway Station and Thalassery Railway Station. From these stations, buses or taxis are available to reach the temple. Nearest airport: Kannur International Airport (approximately 50 km away). From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Thalassery or Kannur and then proceed to the temple via connecting towns.