മാവേലിക്കോണം ദേവീ ക്ഷേത്രം കേരളത്തിലെ തിരുവനന്തപുരം ജില്ലയിലെ നന്തൈവനം, നാഗറൂരിൽ സ്ഥിതിചെയ്യുന്ന ഒരു വിശിഷ്ടമായ ഹിന്ദു ക്ഷേത്രമാണ്. ദേവി ഭദ്രകാളിക്കും ദേവി ദുർഗ്ഗേക്കുമാണ് ഈ ക്ഷേത്രത്തിലെ പ്രതിഷ്ഠ.
ഈ ഐതിഹാസിക ക്ഷേത്രം കുംഭ മാസത്തിൽ (ഫെബ്രുവരി-മാർച്ച്) നടക്കുന്ന വാർഷിക ഉത്സവത്തിനായി പ്രസിദ്ധമാണ്. ഉത്സവത്തിന്റെ പ്രധാന ആകർഷണങ്ങളിലൊന്നായി ഗരുഡൻ തൂക്കം, കാവടിയാട്ടം, അലങ്കരിച്ച ആനകളുടെ ഘോഷയാത്ര, വിപുലമായ മേളം എന്നിവ ഉൾപ്പെടുന്നു.
ക്ഷേത്രത്തിന്റെ മനോഹരമായ ശില്പകലയും ശാന്തതയോടുകൂടിയ പരിസരവും ഭക്തർക്കും സന്ദർശകർക്കും ആത്മീയമായ അനുഭവം നൽകുന്നു.
Garudan Thookam is a ritualistic dance and offering performed in some temples of Kerala, especially in Bhadrakali temples. It is a unique tradition where devotees, dressed as Garuda (the eagle mount of Lord Vishnu), perform a dance and later undergo a symbolic “hanging” ritual as an act of devotion.
Key Features of Garudan Thookam:
- Performed mainly in Bhadrakali temples.
- Devotees dress as Garuda, with elaborate costumes and makeup.
- The ritual includes energetic dance sequences.
- In the final stage, devotees are suspended on a wooden structure using metal hooks, symbolizing their surrender to the goddess.
- The ritual is believed to please Goddess Bhadrakali and seek her blessings.
This tradition is part of the grand temple festivals, attracting large crowds. It reflects the deep-rooted faith and cultural heritage of Kerala.
History of Garudan Thookam in the Puranas
Garudan Thookam is linked to the legend of Goddess Bhadrakali and her battle against the demon Darika, as described in the Devi Mahatmyam and other Puranic stories. The ritual is primarily performed in Bhadrakali temples as a symbolic reenactment of events from Hindu mythology.
Legend Behind Garudan Thookam
- The Battle Between Bhadrakali and Darika
According to the Devi Purana, the powerful demon Darika obtained a boon that made him nearly invincible. He started terrorizing the three worlds, and the gods, unable to defeat him, sought help from Lord Shiva. Shiva created Goddess Bhadrakali from his third eye to destroy Darika. - Goddess Bhadrakali’s Hunger for Blood
After slaying Darika in a fierce battle, Bhadrakali became overwhelmed with rage and bloodlust. The gods and sages feared that if she continued in this form, the world would be destroyed. - Garuda’s Role in Pacifying Bhadrakali
It is believed that Garuda, the mighty eagle vehicle of Lord Vishnu, was sent to pacify Bhadrakali. To please her, Garuda performed a special dance and offered his own blood as a sacrifice. Seeing his devotion, the goddess calmed down and blessed him.
Symbolism in Garudan Thookam
- The dance of Garuda in the ritual represents his attempt to appease Bhadrakali.
- The hanging ritual (Thookam) symbolizes Garuda’s self-sacrifice and surrender to the goddess.
- Devotees perform this ritual to seek Bhadrakali’s blessings and protection.
Even today, this dramatic and sacred offering is performed in temples, reflecting devotion, sacrifice, and Kerala’s deep-rooted cultural traditions.
