Guruvayur Temple in Thissure

 

In Thissure visited the   Guruvayur  Temple on 1st April, 2016. Visited here with Prof. Manimekhalai, Director Centre for Women's Studies, Bharti Dasan University  and Suresh.

Guruvayur is home to the historic Sree Krishna Temple, called the Dwaraka of the South. It is among the most revered and popular pilgrimage destinations in Kerala and the entire country. The central shrine is believed to have been rebuilt in 1638 C.E. The architectural style and individual elements inside the shrine are beautiful representations of the history of the place. As per tradition, the shrine faces the East with two Gopurams (tower), one in the East (Kizhakkenada) and other in the West (Padinjarenada).  In the front and the east side of the Nalambalam (a square shaped column) lie the pillars of light called Deepastambam. There are a number of such light pillars in the temple. The eastern side’s Deepastambam is 24 feet in height and has thirteen circular receptacles, making it an absolutely spectacular sight when lit. Another famous sight here is the Dwajasthamba. It is a flag-staff, around 70 feet tall, fully covered with gold.  Only Hindus are allowed inside the Temple. 

Guruvayur Temple is supposed to have been 5,000 years old. In those times, it was known as "Bhooloka Vaikunta" (Abode of God on Earth). The term 'Guruvayur' is said to have been derived from two words, 'Guru' (preceptor of the gods) and 'Vayu' (god of winds). The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is also known by the name of Guruvayoorappan. Due to its reverence, Guruvayur Temple is also known as 'Dakshina Dwaraka' (Southern Dwarka). 

The presiding deity is Lord Krishna is the form of Maha Vishnu (Lord Krishna is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu). The image is depicted in a standing posture, which has four hands holding Shankh (conch), Sudarshana Chakra (a serrated disk), Lotus and Mace. The image is worshipped as Balakrishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is carved out of a rare stone named Patala Anjana. The walls of the main shrine are festooned with beautiful mural paintings and intricate carvings.