Ambalapuzha
17 Oct, 2024
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Sree Krishna Swamy Temple Ambalapuzha, A Spiritual Icon of Kerala

The Sree Krishna Swamy Temple in Ambalapuzha, Kerala, is one of the most revered Hindu temples in South India, dedicated to Lord Krishna. Known for its exquisite Kerala-style architecture, legendary history, and the world-famous Palpayasam (a sweet rice pudding served as prasadam), the temple holds a significant place in the hearts of devotees. This blog takes you on a spiritual journey through the history, religious importance, and cultural significance of this ancient temple.

A Brief History of the Ambalapuzha Temple

The Sree Krishna Swamy Temple was built in the early 15th century by the ruler of the Chembakassery Kingdom, Pooradam Thirunal-Devanarayanan Thampuran. Legend has it that the king was a devout follower of Lord Krishna, and the temple was constructed to honor the deity in his infant form, also known as “Unnikrishna.”

During the reign of Tipu Sultan in the 18th century, the idol of Lord Krishna from the Guruvayur Temple was shifted to Ambalapuzha to protect it from invasion. This event further elevated the importance of the temple, and since then, it has been a key religious site in Kerala.

Architectural Marvel: The Kerala-Style Ambalapuzha Temple

Kerala is known for its distinct temple architecture, characterized by sloping roofs, intricate woodwork, and stone carvings, and the Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Swamy Temple is a quintessential example. The sanctum sanctorum (Sreekovil) is built with stone and copper, and the temple boasts beautiful murals that depict scenes from Hindu mythology, particularly focusing on Lord Krishna.

The temple has an open courtyard surrounded by pillared corridors. The namaskara mandapam (prayer hall) stands out for its elaborate wooden ceiling adorned with carvings of deities, adding to the spiritual atmosphere of the temple. The temple pond (Kulam), situated within the premises, is not only a scenic spot but is also used during various rituals, making it a significant part of temple life.

**The Iconic Palpayasam: A Divine Offering**

One of the most famous aspects of the Ambalapuzha Temple is the offering of Palpayasam, a sweet rice pudding made of milk and sugar. The Palpayasam has a legendary origin. It is said that Lord Krishna appeared in front of the king in disguise and played a game of chess. Upon losing, the king was asked to provide Palpayasam to devotees every day as payment, a tradition that continues to this day.

Devotees believe that consuming the Palpayasam brings divine blessings from Lord Krishna, and many travel long distances to receive this prasadam. The sweetness and divine aura of the pudding symbolize the compassionate and playful nature of Lord Krishna.

Religious Significance: Worship and Rituals

The temple follows traditional Kerala rituals, adhering to strict customs and timings for daily poojas and offerings. The deity of Lord Krishna, represented as “Parthasarathy” (charioteer of Arjuna in the Mahabharata), is worshipped in his childlike form. Devotees flock to the temple seeking his blessings for prosperity, peace, and happiness.

Several important festivals are celebrated in the temple, including:

Ambalapuzha Arattu Festival: Held annually in March or April, this festival is a grand spectacle with elephant processions, temple music, and elaborate rituals. The highlight is the ceremonial bath (Arattu) of the deity in the temple pond.
Janmashtami: The birthday of Lord Krishna is celebrated with great devotion. The temple is beautifully decorated, and various cultural programs, including devotional singing and Krishna Leela performances, take place during this festival.
Aarattu Utsavam: This 10-day festival marks the end of the temple’s annual festival, with a grand procession of the deity taken to the temple pond for the ceremonial dip.

Mythological Legends Surrounding the Temple

Sree Krishna Swamy Temple is deeply intertwined with several myths and legends. One popular legend revolves around the origin of the Palpayasam as mentioned earlier, but there’s another fascinating tale that draws even more devotees to the temple.

According to local lore, Lord Krishna himself visited the temple disguised as a sage. Upon meeting the king, he was offered food, and in return, the sage blessed the land and instructed the king to serve the Palpayasam as prasadam eternally. It is believed that every bowl of Palpayasam served at the temple contains the divine presence of Lord Krishna, adding to its spiritual importance.

Another legend speaks of the temple’s connection to the famous “Guruvayurappan” deity. When the Guruvayur Temple was threatened by Tipu Sultan’s invasion, the idol was secretly brought to Ambalapuzha and remained safe for many years. This historical incident has bound the two temples in a unique spiritual connection.

Visitor’s Guide: How to Reach and What to Expect

Visiting the Sree Krishna Swamy Temple is an experience steeped in spirituality and peace. The temple is located in the town of Ambalapuzha, which is about 14 kilometers south of Alappuzha (Alleppey) in Kerala. The nearest railway station is Ambalapuzha, and the nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 85 kilometers away.

The temple opens early in the morning, around 3:00 AM, and remains open until 12:30 PM. It reopens in the evening from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Morning poojas, particularly the Nirmalya Darshanam (the first sight of the deity), are considered highly auspicious.

During festivals, the temple becomes a hub of activity with cultural performances, elephant processions, and traditional Panchavadyam (temple music). The sight of the decorated deity on an elephant during the Arattu procession is truly a mesmerizing experience.

Nearby Attractions: Enhancing Your Visit

While visiting the Sree Krishna Swamy Temple, you can explore several nearby attractions to complete your spiritual journey:

Alleppey Backwaters: Just a short drive from Ambalapuzha, the Alleppey backwaters offer scenic houseboat rides, allowing you to experience the tranquil beauty of Kerala’s landscape.
Karumadikuttan: Located a few kilometers from the temple, this 11th-century statue of Buddha is another spiritual site worth visiting.
Krishnapuram Palace: A historical palace showcasing Kerala’s traditional architecture, murals, and an archaeological museum.

Conclusion: A Timeless Spiritual Haven

The Sree Krishna Swamy Temple in Ambalapuzha stands as a testament to Kerala’s rich spiritual heritage. The blend of architectural beauty, deep-rooted myths, and centuries-old traditions make this temple a significant pilgrimage site. Whether it’s the soothing ambiance, the sacred Palpayasam, or the vibrant festivals, the temple offers an unparalleled spiritual experience.

For anyone traveling to Kerala, a visit to the Ambalapuzha Temple is a must to witness the devotion and spirituality that have remained unchanged for centuries.