About Arattupuzha Sree Sastha Temple
The Arattupuzha Sree Sastha Temple is an ancient Hindu temple situated in Arattupuzha village in Thrissur district of Kerala. Believed to be over 3000 years old, it is dedicated to Lord Dharmasastha (Ayyappa) and Sage Vasishta. The temple is renowned for hosting the Arattupuzha Pooram, considered the oldest temple festival in Kerala and known as the Mother of all Poorams.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore a traditional Kerala-style temple complex set amidst serene surroundings. The temple features daily poojas and rituals including abhishekam and deeparadhana. During the annual Arattupuzha Pooram festival, visitors witness grand elephant processions with deities from 23 temples assembling here. The temple is located near the river where the unique Meenoottu (fish feeding) ritual takes place.
Key highlights
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Ancient temple believed to be over 3000 years old
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Hosts Arattupuzha Pooram, the oldest temple festival in Kerala
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Dedicated to Lord Dharmasastha and Sage Vasishta
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Traditional Kerala temple architecture
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Venue for annual Devamela when 23 temple deities assemble
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Unique Meenoottu fish feeding ritual in the river
History of Arattupuzha Sree Sastha Temple
According to legends, the temple dates back 3000 years. It has been the host of the most ancient and well-known yearly Devamela, a festival when all gods and goddesses assemble at Arattupuzha. The temple is administered by Cochin Devaswom Board.
Culture & Context
The temple is culturally significant as the venue for Arattupuzha Pooram, regarded as the Mother of all Poorams in Kerala. The main deity Sree Dharam Sastha is believed to contain the divine vital force of Guru Vasishta, the kulaguru of Raghu vamsha and master of Lord Rama. The temple showcases exceptional cultural ethos of Kerala.
Route
| By air | Nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, approximately 44-58 km away |
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