Deities of the Sanctum
Six sannidhis, each with its own place, ritual, and season within the temple complex.
Shivan
The presiding deity — a six-foot-tall Maha Shivalinga facing east, held in the Dravidian-style circular sanctum. Here Shiva resides in raudra bhava following the renunciation of Sati, the underlying concept being of Shiva standing to perform Sivathandavam.
Narasimha Murthy
Enshrined in a separate sanctum on the northwest side, near the circumambulatory path. Special poojas are held here on the day of Shri Mahadev's consecration, during Thiruvutsavam, and on Ashtami Rohini.
Ganapathy
Resides in the southern part of the Thirumuttam. Offering a garland of green karuka grass to Ganapathy is considered especially meritorious.
Bhadrakali
Seen along the southern circumambulation together with Vettakkorumakan, Vana Durga and the Nagas. The Muttirakkal ritual, performed with coconut, is considered vital to end the suffering of devotees.
Nagas
Nagaraja and Nagayakshi are enshrined on the south side of Shasta's shrine. Devotees perform Naga pooja and offer Noorum Paalum and lit wicks for the Nagas' blessing.
Saasthavu
Consecrated together with Purna Pushkala Devi. Thousands of devotees leave for Sabarimala from this Shasta Sannidhi each year; on Saturdays, sesame wicks are offered for the family's wellbeing.
Vazhipadu for each deity
Every deity here has a specific set of vazhipadus devotees can offer — from a simple vilakku to Sahasranama Pushpanjali and Kudam Dhaara for Shivan.
See the full vazhipadu listSpecial poojas through the year
Each Malayalam month brings its own special pooja calendar — Navratri for Bhagavathi, Vishukani darshan, the 1000 Kudam Dhaara, and more.
See the pooja calendar