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Temples of Kerala - Thirunavaya Temple
by
V.A.Ponmelil
The Thiruvanaya Navamukunda Temple, located at 8 km south of Tirur, near Ponnani in Malappuram district on the banks of the river Bharathapuzha is popular for holding immense historical importance. In this place, Mamangam, a grand assembly of the rulers of Kerala was held once in every 12 years in ancient times. This assembly was held for the last time in 1755 AD.
This 6000 year old temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is also well-known for the performance of last rites to the departed, as it is on the banks of Bharathapuzha. The temple has envying exquisite sculptures carved around the sanctum sanctorum. There are also the carvings of ten avatars of Lord Vishnu and sculptures narrating how Lord Shiva in his kirata or the tribal avatar blessed Arjuna with Pasupathi Astra, the powerful arrow.
There is a ten-day annual festival held at this temple which begins with Kodiyettam and concludes with Arattu. The last three days are the most auspicious and have grand celebrations.
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