Thriputharattu festival
The Thriputharattu festival at Chengannur Mahadeva Temple is a one-of-a-kind ritual celebrated only at this sacred shrine in Kerala. It is a rare observance linked to the menstruation cycle of Goddess Parvathy, symbolising divine feminine power and fertility. Devotees and spiritual seekers regard it as a deeply meaningful and sacred celebration. When signs of menstruation are seen on the Goddess’s vesture, known as Udayada, the main priest (Melsanthi) examines and removes it every morning during the period. This vesture is then verified by senior women from traditional convents before temple rituals are modified. The process follows strict customs passed down through generations. Once the confirmation is completed, the inner shrine is closed for three days, and worship continues at a separate ceremonial shrine within the temple complex. This period highlights ritual purity, spiritual discipline, and deep respect for ancient traditions. Temple authorities carefully preserve and observe these customs. On the fourth day, the idol of the Goddess is taken in a sacred procession for Arattu, the holy bath, in a nearby river. This is followed by elaborate rituals and traditional ceremonies. The Goddess then returns to the temple on a decorated elephant, accompanied by Lord Shiva. The festival concludes with both deities circumambulating the temple together before re-entering their sanctums. Lord Shiva enters from the eastern side, while Goddess Parvathy enters from the western side. This sacred act marks the completion of the Thriputharattu festival.
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