Lokanarkavu Temple, an ancient Hindu shrine dedicated to goddess Durga Devi, is situated in Memunda, 4 km from Vatakara in the Kozhikode District of Kerala, South India. The temple's name, a shortened form of Lokamalayarkavu, signifies the region's abundant nature, with "lokam" meaning world, "mala" meaning mountain, "aaru" meaning river, and "kavu" meaning grove.
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| Lokanarkavu Temple, Memunda, Kerala templepurohit.com |
The temple is intricately linked with the heroic figures of the Vadakkan Pattukal ballads, which honor the brave exploits of past heroes and heroines such as Thacholi Othenan and Unniyarcha. Despite its simplicity, Lokanarkavu Temple, also known as Thacholi Manikoth Kavu, captivates visitors with its grand appearance, enhanced by beautiful murals and carvings. The main deity worshipped here is Lokanarkavilamma, or Goddess Durga.
The temple's most significant festival is Pooram, celebrated with great pomp and show in March or April. The week-long festivities begin with Kodiyettam, the ceremonial flag hoisting, and conclude with Arattu, a traditional ritual in Kerala. Another major festival, the Mandala Utsavam, takes place over 30 days in the Malayalam month of Vrischikam (November–December). These festivals are marked by the unique folk dance called Poorakkali, which is similar to the martial art of Kalarippayattu.
Lokanarkavu Temple holds a special place for Kalarippayattu artists, who traditionally seek the blessings of the deity before their debut. This practice stems from the temple's association with the legendary hero Thacholi Othenan, a prominent figure in Kalarippayattu lore. The dance performances and martial art demonstrations during the festivals draw numerous visitors and devotees, adding to the temple's cultural significance.
In addition to its religious and cultural importance, the temple's location amidst natural beauty attracts many tourists. The murals and carvings that adorn the temple walls depict scenes from Hindu mythology and local legends, offering a glimpse into the region's artistic heritage. The serene surroundings of the temple, coupled with its historical and cultural richness, make it a notable destination for both devotees and tourists.
The closest railway station to Lokanarkavu Temple is in Vatakara, approximately 5 km away, making it easily accessible by train. The nearest airport is Kannur Airport, located 54 km from the temple, providing convenient air travel options for visitors from afar. Lokanarkavu Temple's blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and religious significance makes it a cherished landmark in Kerala.
https://lokanarkavutemple.org/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lokanarkavu_Temple
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