Sree Krishna Swamy Temple Ambalapuzha: Crafted in the distinctive architectural style of Kerala, the Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple stands as a sacred homage to Lord Krishna. Revered across India for its everyday offering of Pal Payasam, a delightful sweet milk porridge, the temple is a beacon of artistic and religious value.
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Adding to its mystique, the temple hosts the unique Pallipaana performance every 12 years, conducted by Velans, known as sorcerers.
Adorned with a majestic display of paintings illustrating the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu, or Dasavatharam, the temple acts as a visual treat for devotees. It is also the birthplace of Ottanthullal, a powerful satirical folk art addressing different socio-political issues. This captivating dance form was first performed within the temple’s sacred precincts.
Location
Situated in Ambalappuzha, Alappuzha district of Kerala, South India, the Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple is acknowledged to have been constructed between the 15th and 17th centuries by the local ruler Chembakasserry Pooradam Thirunal-Devanarayanan Thampuran. The presiding deity, in the form of Parthasarathy, represents Lord Krishna as the charioteer for Arjuna during the great Kurukshetra battle.
Religious Significance
The temple carries a key place in the religious history of South India, renowned not only for its spiritual atmosphere but also for its architectural splendor. With a direct connection to the Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Temple, Ambalapuzha served as a sanctuary for the idol of the Guruvayoor temple during the tumultuous raid by Tipu Sultan in 1789.
The savory payasam offered at the temple carries immense importance for devotees, with beliefs that even Guruvayoor himself partakes in this divine offering. Another myth surrounds Guruvayoor visiting during the Palpayasa Nedyam ritual. The temple’s interiors boast a treasure trove of rich Kerala paintings, portraying the Dasavatharam, or the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu.
History of Sree Krishna Swamy Temple Ambalapuzha
Embedded in a fascinating history, the temple tells the tale of Lord Krishna appearing as a sage challenging a local king to a game of chess. The apparently modest request for a few grains of rice led to an astronomical debt, ultimately resolved through the humble offering of Paalpayasam to pilgrims over time.
Architecture
Designed in the unique Kerala style, the temple’s architecture is a marvel to behold. A captivating painting depicting the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu serves as a central attraction for devotees. Beyond its architectural charm, the Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple is famous for its magicians and the annual Ottanthullal performance.
How to Reach Sree Krishna Swamy
For pilgrims and travelers, reaching Ambalapuzha is facilitated by the proximity of the Ambalapuzha railway station (2 km away) and Alappuzha railway station (14 km away). The Trivandrum International Airport, approximately 139 km away, serves as the nearest air transit point. By road, Ambalapuzha is accessible via NH 47, with the temple located just 1.5 km from the town junction.
Festivals Celebrated
The Chambakulam Moolam Festival celebrated annually on the Moolam Day, attracts pilgrims and tourists seeking blessings from Lord Krishna. The Aaraattu festival, commencing in March and April with the flag hoisting on the Atham star, adds vibrancy to the temple’s calendar. Additionally, the Pallipana festival is celebrated once every 12 years, contributing to the festive spirit of Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple.