Vaikathashtami

Vaikom Mahadeva temple, situated on the banks of the Vembanad Lake at Vaikom (Vaikkom), with its fascinating Kerala style temple architecture is a spectacle in itself. The temple is known as Dakshinakasi of the south. (Kasi is considered the holiest of Hindu pilgrim centres, which is in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh). But come December the temple and its surroundings will be all the more gorgeous, for it is the time of Vaikathashtami - the twelve-day annual festival. The festival falls in the Malayalam month of Vrischikam, corresponding to the months of November / December.The legend behind this festival is that years ago a saint man named Vyaghrapada prayed to God Siva for years after many years God Siva and his wife Parvathy Devi appeared in front of him. It is believed that god Siva appeared in front of him in the day of Krishna Ashtami. So as a memory of this Vaikathashtami is celebrated. 12th day of 13 days festival is celebrated as Vaikathashtami. The festival starts with Thrikkodiyettu (Holy Flag Hoisting ceremony). Sreebali and Vilakku will be held in the following days. On Fifth, Sixth and Seventh day, Poothalam Varavu is held. One of the major highlights during the festival is the Ashtami Vilakku or lamps. Another major ritual during the festival is the Udayanapurathappante Varavu (arrival of Lord Murga (Subrahmanya) from the nearby Udayanapuram Subrahamanya Temple) to pay respects to his father Lord Shiva at the Vaikom Temple. Panchavadyam, Gajapooja, Aanayoottu etc will ba held as a part of the festival. Colorful processions are carried out from one place to another, joined by different deities. The festival celebrations also include Dance Performances and Musical Shows spreading throughout the night. Popular dance forms like Kathakalli are also performed here. The most important day is the Ashtami day which is the eighth day after full moon. On the final day of festival there will be Koodipooja Vilakku, Thrikkarthika and Athazhamoottu in addition to Arattu.