One of the renowned Devi temples in Kerala
is Chettikulangara temple, Kayamkulam in Alappuzha. Highlights of Bharani festival,
celebrated in February-March, are Kuthiyottam and Kettukazhcha. Of these , the
former is performed as an offering to Bhagavathy.
The man who makes the offering teaches an adolescent boy religious rites for
seven days from Sivarathri day (in February) to Bharani asterism, During the
period the boy will have to observe fast. On Bharani morning, after feast and
other rituals, the boy with his body coiled with silver wires is taken in procession
to the temple with accompaniment of percussion. On the way to the temple, tender
coconut water will be sprinkled on the boy. Later the boy dances facing the
Sreekovil (Sanctum Sanctorum).
This ceremony ends with the his presentation of prizes to Gurus (teachers).
This dance if performed in pairs is called Iratta Kuthiyottam. Afternoon, locals
bring huge decorated effigies of chariots, horses, epic figures such as Bhima,
Panchali and Hanuman, and place on wheeled platforms. After darshan, the parties
take up their respective position in the paddy field lying east of the temple.
During the night, the image of Devi will be carried in procession to the effigies
stationed in the paddy field. This is what is known as Kettukazhcha. Next day,
these effigies will be taken to their respective Kavus (place of worship of
different families).
On the tenth day after the festival, another festival is being celebrated in
the temple for thirteen days. On each day, residents of a particular Kavu take
up the onus of celebration.
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