Guruvayur Temple

Guruvayur Temple Latest News

A record 416 marriages were solemnised at Guruvayur Temple on a single day recently. 

About Guruvayur Temple

• Guruvayur Temple, also known as the Dwarka of the South, is a Hindu temple located in the small town of Guruvayur, in the Thrissur District of Kerala.
• It is dedicated to Guruvayurappan, a beloved form of Lord Vishnu worshipped as Baby Krishna. 

‹ ›

Guruvayur Temple History

• It is ascertained that the main presiding deity is 5,000 years old. 
• In fact, the word ‘’Kuruvayur’’ has been mentioned in the Tamil literature called ‘’Kokasandesam’’ in the 14th century CE. 
• References to Kuruvayur have also been made in the 16th century C.E. 
• However, the earliest recorded history of the Guruvayur temple can be traced back to the 17th century C.E. 
• The present structure, which devotees throng today, was rebuilt in the year 1638 C.E. 
• In 1716 AD, the Dutch plundered and set fire to the temple. It was rebuilt in 1747 AD.
• In 1766, Hyder Ali of Mysore captured Kozhikkode (Calicut) and then Guruvayur. He demanded 10,000 fanams in ransom to spare the temple. The ransom was paid, but due to insecurity, pilgrims receded. 
• Later, in 1789 AD, Tippu destroyed the smaller shrines and set fire to the temple, but it was saved due to timely rain.  
• Tippu lost to the Travancore and the English in 1792. 
• The idol, which had been hidden underground in anticipation of Tippu’s takeover, was reinstalled in 1792.  
• In terms of devotees every day, it is the fourth biggest shrine in India.

Guruvayur Temple Features

• It is renowned for its traditional Kerala style of temple architecture, characterized by its gabled roof, wooden carvings, and intricate sculptures.  
• Structures like the Nalambalam (temple structure surrounding the sanctum sanctorum), Balikkal (sacrificial stone), and Deepastambam (pillar of lights) are situated on the temple premises.
• The wall of the sanctum sanctorum is decked with ancient 17th-century murals.
• Another famous sight here is the Dwajasthamba. It is a flagstaff, around 70 feet tall, fully covered with gold.
• The Thulabharam is one of the most popular offerings at Guruvayur Temple. In this ritual, devotees are weighed against jaggery, coconuts, sugar, or bananas on a giant set of scales. This quantity is then given to the Lord as an offering.
• The temple is also noted for being home to a large population of captive male Asian elephants.
• The Punnathur Kotta elephant sanctuary, where 56 elephants live, is very close to the temple.

News:TOI