Prathistadina Mahotsavam

The Prathistadina Mahotsavam at Sree Meenkulathi Bhagavathi-Sastha Temple, located in Muthukurushi, Palakkad, Kerala is one of the most ancient and revered temple festivals in the region. Celebrated with grandeur on April 20 and 21, 2026 (Kollam Era 1201, Medam 7 and 8), this festival marks the installation anniversary of the deities. The temple is dedicated to Bhagavathi, the fierce yet benevolent goddess and Shastha, the hunter deity and is renowned for its strict adherence to traditional rituals and tantric poojas.

The two-day celebrations feature a spectacular Panchavadyam, Chenda Melam, Thiruvathirakali and devotional Bhajans. Devotees participate in the Pradakshinam to Sree Kirathamurthi Temple and engage in offerings such as Nirapar Vazhipadu and Annadanam. The festival also includes cultural performances by local artists, lighting of sacred lamps (Deepaaradhana) and other traditional ceremonies.

This grand celebration not only honors the divine but also encourages devotees to contribute toward the temple’s development and renovation including the temple pond, mandapam and surrounding structures. The festival promises an immersive experience of Kerala’s rich temple heritage and spirituality.

🕉️ Panchavadyam Performance

🪔 Deepaaradhana & Niramaala Offering

💃 Thiruvathirakali

🎶 Vrinda Bhajans

🥁 Chenda Melam & Thayampaka

Prathistadina Mahotsavam Notice

📅 Prathistadina Mahotsavam 2026 Schedule

Ganapathi Pooja

Morning pooja dedicated to Lord Ganapathi to start the Prathistadina Mahotsavam with blessings.

Special Poojas

Evening special poojas performed to honor the deities with devotion and rituals.

Bhadradeepam Lighting

Sacred lamps are lit to invoke divine blessings and create a serene spiritual ambiance.

Deepaaradhana & Niramaala Offering

Lamp worship and offering of sacred garlands to the deities, performed with reverence by devotees.

Cultural Evening

Performances by RCL Active and local artists showcasing traditional art forms and devotional expressions.

Thiruvathirakali

Traditional dance performed by women in devotion to the Goddess, celebrating Kerala’s cultural heritage.

Vrinda Bhajans

Devotional singing by Mannarkkad artists to conclude the first day of the festival on a spiritual note.

Nadathurakkal

The temple is officially opened to devotees, marking the second day of festival celebrations with devotion.

Ganapathi Homam

A sacred fire ritual dedicated to Lord Ganapathi for blessings and removal of obstacles.

Ushapooja

Morning pooja performed to start the day with divine energy and devotion.

Special Poojas

Various rituals conducted for the deities, following traditional temple practices.

Narayaniya Parayanam

Devotional chanting of Narayaniya by Narayaniya Parayana Samithi, Muthukurushi.

Kalash Pooja, Brahmarakshas Pooja, Nagapooja, Bhairava Pooja

Special rituals performed to honor deities and seek their divine blessings.

Chenda Melam

Traditional percussion performance by Kalarikkal Ramadasan & team, creating a festive atmosphere.

Uchappooja & Prasadam Distribution

Midday pooja followed by distribution of prasadam to devotees.

Thayampaka Performance

Traditional percussion art performed by Kalarikkal Ramadasan & team to celebrate the festival spirit.

Panchavadyam Performance

Grand traditional orchestra led by Sadanam Aneesh & team, enhancing the festive mood.

Pradakshinam

Circumambulation to Sree Kirathamurthi Temple with Panchavadyam and Chenda Melam, returning to the main temple.

Kavil Keral

Ritual performed at the temple pond as part of the traditional ceremonies.

Deepaaradhana & Niramaala Offering

Evening lamp worship and garland offerings to the deities.

Thiruvathirakali

Traditional dance performance by women in devotion to the Goddess.

Vrinda Bhajans

Devotional singing by Mannarkkad artists to conclude the festival celebrations.

Lucky Draw of Gift Coupons

Conducted in the temple sanctum as part of the concluding festivities.

Key Highlights of Prathistadina Mahotsavam

Nadathurakkal

The ceremonial opening of the temple, marking the official start of Prathistadina Mahotsavam.

Ganapathi Pooja & Homam

Special morning rituals to invoke Lord Ganapathi's blessings for a smooth and prosperous festival.

Pradakshinam

Circumambulation to Sree Kirathamurthi Temple accompanied by Panchavadyam and Chenda Melam.

Deepaaradhana & Niramaala

Lighting of lamps and offering of sacred garlands to the deities during the evening rituals.

Panchavadyam & Chenda Melam

Traditional percussion performances creating a festive and devotional atmosphere for devotees.

Thiruvathirakali & Vrinda Bhajans

Devotional dance and bhajan performances by local artists celebrating Kerala’s temple culture.

Prathistadina Mahotsavam

Location & Access

Venue: Meenkulathi Bhagavathi Sastha Temple, Palakkad

Nearest Town: Palakkad (5 km)

Railway: Palakkad Junction Railway Station (6 km)

Airport: Cochin International Airport (35 km)

Road: Well connected via NH 966 and local state highways; regular KSRTC and private buses, taxis available to Meenkulathi Bhagavathi Sastha Temple, Muthukurushi, Palakkad