Chettikulangara Bharani

Chettikulangara Bharani Festival, also known as Kumbha Bharani, is a renowned temple festival in Kerala celebrated with great fervour at the Chettikulangara Sree Bhagavathi Temple near Mavelikara in the Alleppey district. It occurs annually on the Bharani asterism during the month of Kumbham in the Malayalam calendar, typically falling between February and March. The festival begins on Maha Shivratri and ends on the Bharani day. It is coordinated by 13 'karas' or regions, popularly known as Onattukara, within the Chettikulangara town.

The Chettikulangara Bharani Festival, often held as a post-harvest float festival, serves as a gesture of gratitude to Goddess Bhadrakali for a bountiful harvest and protection from adversities and illnesses. With over 50,000 participants, it showcases a magnificent fusion of culture, art, architecture, and human dedication. The key attractions of Chettikulangara Bharani include the Kuthiyottam and Kettukazhcha ceremonies.

Kuthiyottam, a fusion of dance, music, and ritual, symbolizes an offering to Goddess Kali. Pre-pubescent boys, symbolically sacrificed, are trained and led in a procession to the temple for a ceremonial dance, signifying their symbolic death. Sumptuous feasts are served during the festival. Kettukazhcha is a ceremonial procession featuring elaborately decorated giant structures, offered to the Goddess as a gesture of gratitude and to seek blessings. It includes temple cars, chariots, and idols drawn to the Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple from the 13 regions of Chettikulangara, showcasing the communal harmony and architectural prowess of the region.

For the people of Onattukara, Kumbha Bharani is also a time to enjoy delectable dishes. Festival specialities include Kuthiramoottil Kanji (porridge prepared at the site of the Kettukazhcha), Konjum Manga (a dish made of prawns and raw mango), and Astram.

Specialty of Festival:

The specialty of the Chettikulangara Bharani festival lies in its vibrant celebration of devotion and tradition. It is marked by colorful Kettukazhcha processions, distinctive devotee offering known as 'Kuthiyottam', and fervent prayers at the Chettikulangara Devi Temple in Kerala.

Month of Festival:

The Chettikulangara Bharani festival typically occurs in the Malayalam month of Kumbham which usually falls between February and March.

How to reach?

By Air : Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport, 127 Km away from Chettikulangara Devi Temple.

By Train :Mavelikara Railway Station is the nearest railway station, 5.9 Km away from Chettikulangara Devi Temple.

By Road :Chettikulangara Devi Temple is easily accessible by road. You can choose private transportation, take a bus, or hire a cab to reach the temple.

FAQ

1.When is Chettikulangara Kumbha Bharani celebrated?

Chettikulangara Bharani Festival is celebrated every year in the Malayalam month of Kumbham which usually falls between February and March.

2.Which temple in Kerala is renowned for the Chettikulangara Bharani Festival?

Chettikulangara Sree Bhagavathy Temple near Mavelikara in the Alappuzha district of Kerala is renowned for the Chettikulangara Bharani Festival.

3.What are the main attractions of Chettikulangara Bharani?

The main attractions of Chettikulangara Bharani are the Kuthiyottam and Kettukazhcha.