What is the sthala katha — the legend — of Oorpazhachi Kavu?

Early modern · Hindu · India

Oorpazhachi Kavu

Edakkad (Kannur district), Kerala · 11.8251°, 75.4359°

Bhagavathy, Sree Oorpazhachi Daivathar and Vettakkorumakan (Kiratha sunu)UndeterminedKerala

Sacred since

1845 CE

first attestation / structure

Standing structure

enlarged 1845–1899

Undetermined

History & significance

A sacred-grove shrine at Edakkad in Kannur district with three principal deities, rebuilt and enlarged between 1845 and 1899 after its images had been moved for safety during Tipu Sultan's campaigns in the 1790s. Hereditary trustees drawn from nine Nambiar families administer it.

Sthala katha — the legend

Temple lore recounts Kali becoming the gentle Gauri through penance, Vishnu appearing in the guise of a hunter to Vettakkorumakan, and Rama coming here to seek relief from the affliction of Shani.

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