| And it is with
the same awe that we viewed the life-size idol of Bhagawati when we visited the temple
Years later. Both fierce and benign aspects of Sakti appear to be intermingled in the
idol. With her eight hands carrying deadly weapons like the sword she strikes terror at
first. But one is irresistibly drawn towards her as one contemplates her benign aspects,
her eyes being full of compassion and her form exuding love, kindness and protection. Kodungallur (also called Cranganore) is 40 km, south-west of Trichur
in central Kerala. Situated at the kutungal or junction of the river and the sea, it is
almost an island bounded by the Arabian sea in the west, by the river mouths of Chetvai
and Azhikode on the north and south respectively and by backwaters in the east. It is a
picturesque place with plenty of flora consisting of Coconuts, arecanuts and fruit trees
like jack-fruit, mango, etc., and a vast expanse of shimmering waters forming the
backdrop. |
