Based on the evidence available about formation of the eleven Sthanams, the Kadangot Nellikal Bhagawathi Kshetra is considered to be the first one. When the Bhagawathis decided to step out of their ship and settle down at a place, Kadangotu was the pleasant surroundings they foUnd first The place where they disembarked is known as “Oriyar Kavu”. The Daivas being worshipped here and the complex Two idols are there at this Sthanam. These are reflex idols. i.e. Mirror with halo decoration around it and not regular idols as elsewhere. There are three main weapons. 10 bent swords and 5 shields During festivals two red “Asarkode” and two colourful umbrellas as well two fans made of peacock feathers are used There are no palanquins. There is only one Poojari. “Gosampage” flower finds place of prominence here Hanging lamp with a chain is used for aarathi here. There is one “Shankha” decorated in silver kept before the idols. At this Kshetra a normal pooja known as “Cheva Velak” is performed around 36 times in a year on the days of Karthike star. Besides “Pooram” and “Patu” festivals, they also hold functions on “Tulapath” and 12 Sankramana days. The original Kshetra of this Sthanam is said to be situated at Charvathur There Punnakkal Bhagawathi Sthanam is in existence. On the first day of the “Pooram” festival. Bhagawathis visit this place. Here “Patu” festival is being held for 8 days in the Dhenu month and Pooram festival in the month of Meena for 7 days_ During “Patu” twice a day (Noon & Night) Bhagawathis visit “Oriyar Kavu”. The panda’ is being decorated with tender coconut leaves and different flowers.
All the weapons available at the Sthanam are brought out and displayed nicely “Patu” consisting of different mythological stories is being narrated by “Kaniyaru”, day in and day out during these days. On the 8th day chicken sacrifice is held outside the complex wherein Punyakal Bhagawathi and Veeramar do not participate_ Pooram festival is held with various programmes The Pooramkali Patu will initially begin at Charvathur Kshetra On the first day a visit is paid to the Veerabhadra Kshetra at Charvathur. Pooramkali is held at the Kshetra complex wherein young and old alike participate. All will wear only ‘mundu’ cfuring this and well experienced “Panikkar” will sing and direct the dance. Participants will go round a lighted lamp repeating the songs sung by the Panikkar. At various level of singing, participants will loudly snout “Aa”. While dancing they keep one hand on one of the ears and the other hand will be stretched out. It is said that there are about 18 different forms of dance being performed to different talas On the last evening “Pooram bath” is held at Madikkava river near the Kshetrapala Temple. Idols and weapons are kept outside on coconut leaves. Idols. jewellery and weapons will then be washed. Small idols of expired daiva sevakas are also kept The ‘daiva pathris’ wear ceremonious dress Then the procession starts with all the finery After reaching the riverside the pathris remove all their ceremonious dress, jewellery and keep them aside with their weapons. Thereafter they and Karnavas take a dip in the river water, come out and take a fresh bath Thereafter they dress up again. After paying their respect to the Kshetrapala. the procession returns taking a different route. Kaliyata Utsava was held here around 50 years back once and again in 1955.
Image Source :MBSS
Contents Source : Bhagavathi Aradhane (Dr. Amritha Someshwar) & MBSS
