MOTHER KALI OF KODUNGALLUR

ARCHAMURTHI

It is quite interesting to learn that this temple of Kali was dedicated to Lord Siva in the beginning, and later a majestic six foot high wooden image of Kali facing the north was installed. Now both are adored in separate shrines. According to belief this imposing idol was made out of the trunk of a single jack fruit tree. It has eight arms and is holding different kinds of potent weapons. The Kirita adorning her head resembles that of kathakali type and is heightening the grandeur of her awe-some beauty.  She is covered with golden raiment all over excepting hands. 

The dazzling diamond decked necklaces and chains, sparkling by the rays of koil lamps hung up around, enhance her beauty and wring veneration at first sight. It is the same form, she assumed during the war against Daruka - fearful, yet approachable.  It is in this Srikoil, the much venerated secret chamber lies. It is made of a big boulder and supposed to contain in its hollow material remains of Kannaki. Strangely enough it has neither entrances nor windows, but believed to have an underground passage from here which opens at about hundred yards away. 

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