Valliyoorkkavu

rdf:langString Valliyoorkkavu

rdf:langString Valliyoorkkavu is an ancient Bhagavathy temple located near Mananthavady in the Wayanad district. The temple is for Goddess Durga as its presiding deity in three forms namely: Vana Durga, Bhadrakali, and Jala Durga. The idol of the temple is believed to be self-manifested and the annual festival falls in the month of March and will last for 14 days. It is a major event and thousands of people from all over the place takes part in this biggest event. The temple has many numerous rituals held during the festival include the oppana varavu, a procession from Cheramkode Bhagavathy temple at Kallody near Mananthavady and Adiyaras, a procession with tender coconut for abhishekam (ablution) marks the arattu of Valliyooramma. The festival concluded when the oppana varavu returns to Cheramkode Bhagavathy temple after the rudhirakkolam, a symbolic fight between Goddess and the demon king, Darika, in which the Bhagavathy wins. The festival is very important for the tribal people of Wayanad. The traditional ritual of Kalamezhuthu is performed during the nights of the festival. On the final day, the array of folk art forms are presented. The dances are performed by the local tribes with native percussion instruments, which is a major attraction. Also, the scenic beauty of the place with hillocks and the Kabani River is worth seeing.