Chottanikkara Temple Kerala

The Dakshinamurthy Shrine at the Chottanikkara Temple is a significant part of this famous temple, located in Chottanikkara, near Kochi, in the Ernakulam district of Kerala. This shrine is dedicated to Lord Dakshinamurthy, the south-facing form of Lord Shiva, known as the ultimate Guru or teacher of wisdom, knowledge, and spiritual enlightenment.

Dakshinamurthy is one of the most revered forms of Lord Shiva. In this form, he is shown as a teacher who imparts divine wisdom to sages. He is often associated with sharing the ultimate knowledge of the universe.

At the temple, Lord Dakshinamurthy is also called “Guru” or “Bhagwan” because he represents the teacher-student relationship, guiding devotees towards spiritual wisdom and enlightenment. He is often depicted sitting under a banyan tree, a symbol of wisdom, with his right hand raised in a gesture of teaching.

The Chottanikkara Temple is primarily dedicated to Goddess Bhagavati, a form of Parvati. It is one of the most famous temples in Kerala, known for its powerful deity who is believed to cure mental illness and bring peace of mind. However, the temple also has a shrine for Lord Dakshinamurthy, highlighting the Guru’s importance in the lives of devotees.

The temple features traditional Kerala-style architecture, including a Nadapandhal (entrance hall), the Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum), and a Namaskara Mandapam (prayer hall). The sanctum sanctorum houses the main deity, Goddess Bhagavati, while Lord Dakshinamurthy’s shrine is located nearby. The idol of Dakshinamurthy is intricately carved, emphasizing the Guru’s role in the temple’s worship.

*Legend*

According to legend, Lord Shiva took the form of Dakshinamurthy to teach the sages and rishis in the forest. One significant story is about his teaching the four young sages (Sanaka, Sanandana, Sanatkumara, and Sanatsujata) the highest form of knowledge.

At the Chottanikkara Temple, it is believed that Goddess Bhagavati and Lord Dakshinamurthy work together to relieve mental illness and distress, offering a holistic healing approach.

The most important festival, *Guru Purnima, is dedicated to Dakshinamurthy as the divine teacher. Other festivals like **Maha Shivaratri, **Navaratri, and the **Chottanikkara Temple Festival* also highlight his significance as a source of enlightenment and guidance for devotees.