Mridanga Saileswari Temple

The Muzhakkunnu Mridanga Saileswari Temple, one of Kerala’s most revered shrines dedicated to Goddess Durga, is steeped in rich history and cultural significance. Located in Muzhakkunnu in the Kannur district, the temple honors the Goddess in her dual forms as Mridangaleswari and Sreeporkali.

According to popular lore, the temple’s origins are celestial. Long ago, a Mridanga, a percussion instrument, is said to have fallen from the heavens onto this very spot, leading to the name ‘Mridangashaila Nilayam,’ which translates to ‘the place where the Mridanga fell.’ Over time, this site became known as Muzhakkunnu.

The temple holds a special place in the hearts of the local royal dynasty of Kottayam (Kannur), serving as their family deity and the family temple of the legendary Pazhassi Raja. It was within these sacred grounds that the illustrious royal Kottayathu Thampuran composed several famous Kathakali plays, including Bakavadham, Kirmeeravadham, Kalyanasaugandhikam, and Nivathakavacha Kalakeyavadham.

Visitors to the Muzhakkunnu Mridanga Saileswari Temple can immerse themselves in its spiritual ambiance, appreciate its historical significance, and marvel at its cultural contributions to the classical art form of Kathakali.

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