Kaviyoor Renuka: Kerala's Snake Godess

The Temple and the Rituals

Kaviyoor Devi temple is located at the Kaviyoor in Kannur district, Kerala, India. The main deity of the temple is Kaviyoor Renuka, also known as the Snake Goddess. The temple is believed to have been built in the 12th century by the king of Cannanore.

The temple is famous for its annual seven-day Theyyam festival, which is held in the month of April or May. During the festival, devotees from all over the state come to the temple to worship the goddess and to participate in the rituals. The main ritual of the festival is the Theyyam, a ritual dance in which the dancers wear elaborate costumes and makeup. Devotees believe that the goddess is present in the Theyyam dancer and that the dancer can cure diseases and grant wishes.

The Snake Goddess

Kaviyoor Renuka is a powerful and feared goddess. She is believed to be the daughter of the sage Parashurama and the goddess Mahishasura. Kaviyoor Renuka is said to have been married to the king of Chembakassery, but she was cursed by her father to become a snake. She later regained her human form with the help of Lord Shiva.

Kaviyoor Renuka is often depicted as a beautiful woman with a snake around her neck. She is also often associated with the goddess Kali. Devotees believe that Kaviyoor Renuka is a protector of the people and that she can help to ward off evil spirits.

The History of Kaviyoor Renuka

The origins of the Kaviyoor Devi temple are unknown, but it is believed to have been built in the 12th century. The temple is mentioned in several historical texts, including the 'Keralotpathi', a 16th-century work by the poet Cherusseri Namboothiri.

The Theyyam festival is also believed to have been started in the 12th century. The festival was originally performed by the lower castes, but it later became popular among all castes. The Theyyam is a unique and colorful ritual that is a major part of the cultural heritage of Kerala.

Conclusion

Kaviyoor Renuka is a powerful and feared goddess who is worshipped by people all over Kerala. The Kaviyoor Devi temple is a popular pilgrimage site and the Theyyam festival is a major cultural event. The goddess is believed to be a protector of the people and she can help to ward off evil spirits. Devotees believe that the goddess is present in the Theyyam dancer and that the dancer can cure diseases and grant wishes.