Thirumandhamkunnu Bhagavathy temple is one of the ancient and famous Mahakshethras of Kerala. This shrine which is the foremost in the Bhadrakali temples. This Temple is located at Angadippuram in Malappuram district. This temple is one of the most ancient and revered temples in Kerala, dedicated to Goddess Kali, an incarnation of Goddess Parvathi. The temple stands prominently on the top of a hillock with an attractive look and majestic appearance.
The temple is built in the traditional Kerala style of architecture, with a majestic gopuram, a circular sanctum, and a spacious mandapam.
The main shrine houses the idol of Goddess Kali, also known as Thirumandhamkunnilamma or Bhagavathy. The idol is made of a rare stone called Katu Anjanam, which is believed to have medicinal and magical properties. It is adorned with gold ornaments and jewels and covered with red silk cloth. The idol is said to be very powerful and benevolent and fulfills the wishes of the devotees who pray to her with faith and devotion.
King Mandhatha of the Surya dynasty, after renouncing his kingdom, meditated on Lord Shiva, seeking a divine idol for worship. Pleased with his devotion, Lord Shiva gifted him a sacred Shiva Linga from Kailash, worshiped even by Goddess Parvathi. While carrying the Linga, Mandhatha reached the present-day Thirumandhamkunnu, where he placed it on the ground. The Linga immediately got fixed to the earth.
When Goddess Parvathi got to know about this, she wanted the Linga back as it was dear to her. She sent Goddess Bhadrakali and her Bhoothas (celestial beings) to retrieve it. A fierce battle ensued between Bhadrakali’s forces and Mandhatha’s ascetics. Using divine powers, the ascetics defended themselves with Attanga nuts, which transformed into arrows. The battle lasted for 15 days and is commemorated even today as the ritual “Attanga Yeru” in the temple.
Eventually, Goddess Parvathi appeared in her cosmic form, accompanied by Goddess Bhadrakali. Realizing the significance of the Shiva Linga, Parvathi stayed within the idol, allowing Bhadrakali to be worshipped alongside her. The split Shiva Linga, symbolizing this divine event, is still present in the temple and is revealed only during special rituals.
The temple remains a centre of devotion and tradition, attracting devotees who honour its rich history and divine energy. The rituals and festivals continue to celebrate the unity of the deities and the legacy of King Mandhatha’s devotion.
Thirumandhamkunnu Temple is famous for its festivals like Pooram (Festival of Elephants), Thiruvathira (Festival of Dance) and Navaratri.
