Ashtami at Vaikom - The Mahadeva Temple at Vaikom is one of the most
famous and oldest Siva temples in Kerala. The utsavam in this temple
is celebrated for twelve days during the dark lunar fortnight of Vrischikam,
(November-December) the Ashtami falling on the last day. During the
night on the Ashtami day the deities of the neighbouring temples will
be ceremoniously brought in procession to this temple. This is a very
colourful and important function. After dusk, the deity of the Vaikom
temple will be taken out in procession and kept in the Anakkottil
(elephant shed). At about midnight the deities of other temples will
also be brought in procession to the Anakkottil. Thereafter a ceremony
called Kanikkiduka (offering of presents) is performed. This is considered
to be an important feature. Kanikkiduka function is indeed unique
in that it is found in no other temples.
Ashtami at vaikom - The kootipuja performed during the festival,
at the temple deserves special mention. The Arattu in conclusion of
the utsava in the Udayanapuram temple, is performed at Vaikom temple.
The Arattu is performed at the Arattu tank located at a distance of
one mile east of the temple. The Arattu celebration over, both the
deities are taken to Vaikom temple, where they are worshipped together.
This is what is known as Kootipuja. This puja is performed on the
fifth day after Kodiyettu, the hoisting of the temple flag. On the
next day after Ashtami, Arattu is performed to the deity in this temple.
The Ashtami in the dark lunar fortnight of Kumbhom, is also quite
important.
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