Ettumanoor located in proximity to Kottayam city at a distance of 10 km is famous for the oldest temple in Kerala, Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The architecture of the temple is a wonder to our eyes with beautiful murals, paintings, wooden carvings all dating back to the 16th century. Another peculiarity is the roof modelling which is covered with copper plates and the gopuram is extremely magnificent with the glorious painting of Nataraja, which is the depiction of Lord Shiva as a cosmic dancer.
Of all the other festivals Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is widely renowned for its “Ezhara Ponnana” procession held during the annual festival during the Malayalam month of Kumbham (February-March). “Ezhara” means “seven and a half” and “ponnana” means “golden elephants”. All the seven elephants are 2 feet high and the eight one has only one foot. All these eight statues made of gold are collectively called seven and a half golden elephants taken out on the eighth day of the annual festival for Ezhunnallathu or procession. The eighth day and the tenth day, which marks the end of the annual festival is a tremendous treat to the eyes of the devotees and the tourists.
It is believed that these seven and a half golden elephants were offered to the deity by the then ruler of Travancore dynasty, Anizham Thirunnal Marthanda Varma. It is also said that it was given to the deity when the army of Tipu Sultan came banging on the gates of Travancore to tear it apart. Visit Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple during the Ezhunnallathu to view the delightful and majestic tradition of our culture.
Contact Details
Ettumanoor Mahadevar Temple
Ettumanoor Temple Rd, Ettumanoor,
Kottayam, Kerala 686631
