Chottanikkara Temple, Hindu temple in Ernakulam district, India
Chottanikkara Temple is a Hindu temple in Ernakulam district, India, known for its wooden carvings. The complex holds separate shrines for five deities grouped around a central courtyard.
Adi Shankara founded the temple in the 8th century after a meditation journey to the north and wished to encourage worship in Kerala. Later rulers expanded the site and added more shrines.
The name combines Chattan, a local ruler, with Kara, meaning place, recalling early support from regional leaders. Devotees today use the shrine to share personal worries and seek relief through prayer.
The temple opens before dawn for early rituals, and visitors can attend different ceremonies throughout the day. Proper dress is required, with traditional garments preferred.
A separate shrine at Kizhukkavu focuses on evening rituals aimed at mental healing and draws families with unusual ailments. Priests conduct these ceremonies after sunset using lamps and chants.
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