Thiruvarkadu Bhagavathi Temple, Madayi

Madayi, Kerala

At the heart of Madayi, Thiruvarkadu Bhagavathi Temple offers a divine and uplifting ambience where devotees come together to seek blessings, peace, and guidance. This sacred shrine has been a beacon of faith for centuries, standing as a reminder of the community’s shared devotion and spiritual connection. From the moment one enters its premises, the calming chants, fragrant incense, and gentle temple bells create an atmosphere that soothes the soul. The temple is not only a place for prayer but also a centre for cultural gatherings, festivals, and traditional rituals that strengthen communal ties. Whether during quiet daily worship or grand celebrations, Thiruvarkadu Bhagavathi Temple continues to touch hearts and minds, making it one of the most cherished spiritual destinations in Madayi. It also proudly reflects the timeless traditions seen in many Ancient temples in Kerala.

Thiruvarkadu Bhagavathi Temple History and Significance

The Thiruvarkadu Bhagavathi Temple, also known as Madayi Kavu, is believed to be the coronation ceremony center of the Mooshika kingdom. The 11th king of the Mooshika dynasty, Shatasoman, renovated the Perinchallur temple, where Bhadrakali was worshipped. In 344 AD, Kola swaroopam raised the Bhagavathi temple.

During Hyder Ali's incursion into Malabar around 1780, the temple was desecrated. A local Nair warrior named Vengayil Chathukutty beheaded the miscreant responsible, earning the title of Nayanar for his family.

Thiruvarkadu Bhagavathi Temple Pooja Timing
Thiruvarkadu Bhagavathi Temple Interesting Facts
Thiruvarkadu Bhagavathi Temple Nearby Temples
Other Bhadrakali Temples
Famous Temples from around

Thiruvarkadu Bhagavathi Temple Pooja Timing

Pooja Name	Timings
Nirmalyam	4:30 AM
Usha Pooja	6:00 AM
Deeparadhana	6:30 PM
Athazha Pooja	8:00 PM

Thiruvarkadu Bhagavathi Temple Location Details

How to Reach Thiruvarkadu Bhagavathi Temple

By Road:

Kannur is well-connected by road to major towns in Kerala. State Transport Buses and private taxis operate regularly.

By Train:

Nearest railway stations: Kannur Railway Station and Payyanur Railway Station. From these stations, buses or taxis are available to the temple's location.

By Air:

Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport (Kozhikode). From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Kannur via connecting cities.

Thiruvarkadu Bhagavathi Temple Nearby Temples

Best time to visit (season/months):

October to March. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall. Summers can be hot, so winter months are ideal for a pleasant visit.

Other Bhadrakali Temples

Legends Beliefs

Legends and BeliefsOne legend says that the Bhagavathi, Madayikkavilamma, resided in the Rajarajeshwara Temple but required animal sacrifice, which was incompatible with Shiva worship. She ordered the king to build a separate shrine for her.Another legend states that Madayi was troubled by a demon named Darika, whom Madayikavilamma killed. She requested Shiva to enshrine her near him, and Parashurama invoked her in a conch, which fell on Madayippara.The temple is considered a last resort for removing occult sorcery. The Piradar Brahmins from Kashmir, who practice Saaktheya pujas, perform the rituals here.
Deities and Sub Deities

Deities and Sub-DeitiesThe main deity of the temple is Bhadrakali, in her fierce form. Other deities include Shiva, Saptha Mathrika, Ganapathy, Veerabhadra, and Kshetrapalaka. The temple follows a tantric architecture called Rurujith Vidhanam, with sanctums for these deities arranged in a specific manner.
Offerings

OfferingsA unique aspect of the temple is the 'Kozhi Kalasham,' a ritual involving the sacrifice of poultry for the goddess. This offering is held in high regard and is a significant part of the temple's practices.
Architecture

ArchitectureThe temple follows Kerala architecture and features four sanctums. The main sanctum sanctorum of Shiva faces east, while the sanctum of Bhagavathi faces west. The temple's layout follows the Rurujith Vidhanam, a tantric architectural style.
Festivals

FestivalsThe temple originally celebrated four annual festivals. Currently, the two main festivals are Pooram and Kalasham. Pooram is celebrated in March-April and lasts for seven days. Kalasham, held in April-May, is a shorter event lasting a few hours.During the Kalasham festival, a ritual called 'Kalasha Uthsavam' takes place, involving eight participants dressed as various goddesses. Another important practice is 'Kavu Pidi,' which involves fishing in a nearby river on specific dates.
Religious Practices

Religious PracticesThe temple rites are performed by Piradar Brahmins who follow Koula Sampradaya. The head priest is Kattumadom Esanan Namboothirippad. The temple is also associated with the Bhadrakali temple of Mannanpurathu Kavu and Vadukunnu Shiva Temple.The main idol of Bhagavathi is crafted using a rare technique called 'Kadu Sarkara Yogam.' This method involves a six-stage construction process and is used in only a few temples in Kerala.

FAQ's

Where is the Thiruvarkadu Bhagavathi Temple located?

The Thiruvarkadu Bhagavathi Temple is located in Madayi, Kerala, India. Specifically, it is situated in the Kannur district.

Which God is Bhadrakali?

Bhadrakali is a major Hindu deity.

What is the best time to visit Thiruvarkadu Bhagavathi Temple?

October to March. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall. Summers can be hot, so winter months are ideal for a pleasant visit.

How to reach Thiruvarkadu Bhagavathi Temple from near City or Town?

Nearest railway stations: Kannur Railway Station and Payyanur Railway Station. From these stations, buses or taxis are available to the temple's location. Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport (Kozhikode). From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Kannur via connecting cities.