Preparations are in full swing for the Nalambala Darsan, the annual pilgrimage to four temples in Central Kerala, during the month of Karkkidakam.
Karkkidakam evokes devotional fervour among Hindus. Nalambala Darsan is gaining popularity among a large number of devotees. It is believed that worshipping all the four deities in a single day would bring peace and solace.
The pilgrimage to the Thriprayar Sree Rama Temple, Moozhikkulam Lakshmana Temple, Irinjalakuda Koodalmanikyam Temple and Payammal Shathrughna Temple will begin on July 17. These temples are dedicated to Lord Rama, Lakshmana, Bharatha and Shathrughna.
The legend goes that fishermen gifted the idols of the Ramayana heroes to Vakkayil Kaimal, a minister with Ayirur Kovilakam. The idols were later installed at Thriprayar, Moozhikulam, Irinjalakuda and Payammal.
Temples have made elaborate arrangements to receive ten of thousands of pilgrims, who will pour throughout the month.
The pilgrims will first have darsan of Lord Sree Rama at Thriprayar Sree Rama Temple. The temple depicts Lord Rama as protector of the universe. The darsan will begin from 3.30 a.m. The main offerings include Avil Naivedyam, Kathina vedi (fireworks) and feeding fish. Facilities including drinking water, medical care, and the service of the police will be available for the devotees.
Koodalmanikyam Temple at Irinjalakuda depicts Lord Bharatha offering prayers to Lord Rama. It is 14 km away from Thriprayar temple. A wide queue complex has been arranged here for the devotees. Prasadam will be distributed at East Nada. The darsan will begin from 3 a.m. Lotus garland is the main offering here. Moozhikulam temple, one of the few temples in the State dedicated to Lord Lakshmana, is located on the banks of the Chalakudy River, around 30 km away from Koodalmanikyam temple. The tourism department has undertaken Rs. one crore development works in the temple.
The Payammal temple, around seven km from Irinjalakuda, is one of the few shrines in the State dedicated to Shathrughna. ‘Sudharsana Pushpanjali’ is the main offering here.
Nada will open at 5 a.m. The KSRTC will operate special services for the Nalambala Darsan. Service will begin from Irinjalakuda between 6 a.m. and 6.30 a.m.
