Killikkurussi Mahadeva Dakshinamurthy Temple is in Killikkurussimangalam village near Ottapalam in Palakkad district. It stands near the Bharathapuzha River and is one of the 108 Shiva temples believed to have been consecrated by Parashurama
The temple is very old, with traditions and references pointing to its antiquity. It has been a place of worship for many centuries and is considered one of the ancient shrines of Kerala.
The main deity is Lord Shiva in his Dakshinamurthy form, worshipped as the divine teacher who gives wisdom. Other deities include Ganapathi, Subramanya, Ayyappa, and serpent gods.
The temple is built in Kerala’s traditional style with laterite and granite sanctum, tiled roofs, and wooden carvings. A sacred pond called Ambalakkulam is part of the temple, used for purification before worship.
The temple has been a place of worship for many centuries. It was once under the Perumpadappu Swaroopam and later supported by Kochi kings and the British in Malabar. Kunjan Nambiar, the famous poet and creator of Ottan Thullal, was born nearby and often mentioned this temple in his works.
The legend says Sage Shuka, son of Vyasa, consecrated the idol at Killikkurussi. This connects directly with Lord Dakshinamurthy, because Shuka was a disciple who spread wisdom, and Dakshinamurthy is Shiva as the eternal teacher. By installing Shiva in this form, the temple became a place of learning and meditation.
Another belief says the idol was once worshipped by Brahma, which adds sanctity to the shrine. The temple is also counted among the 108 Shiva temples established by Parashurama to protect Kerala’s spiritual heritage.
According to a local legend, a Nambiar woman was blessed near the temple pond and later gave birth to Kunjan Nambiar, who became a legend in Kerala’s performing arts. His devotion ensured that gifts from kings were used for temple welfare, and inscriptions near the bali stone record his contributions.
Another story tells of a devotee named Satyasoman. While cutting branches, he accidentally caused the death of a Brahmachari. Saddened, he performed penance until Shiva appeared and granted him liberation through a ritual dance. This dance became Mattavilasam Koothu, which is still performed at the temple.
Maha Shivaratri is the main festival, celebrated with night-long prayers and gatherings of devotees. Vaikathashtami is also observed here, showing its link with Vaikom temple traditions. Thursday is also considered special at this temple, as devotees believe worshipping Dakshinamurthy on this day brings blessings of wisdom, clarity, and guidance.
