Guruvayur Temple, Features and Udayasthamana Pooja

About Guruvayur Temple

• It is located in Guruvayur, Thrissur District, Kerala, and is dedicated to Lord Krishna, worshipped as Guruvayurappan. It is also called “Dwarka of South”.
• In 1931-32, A satyagraha was initiated by Kelappan (known as Kerala Gandhi) to advocate for the inclusion of untouchables into the temple.
• Adi Shankaracharya, the 8th-century Indian philosopher is credited with streamlining and the temple’s rituals.

Features of Temple

• The temple is built in the traditional Kerala architectural style.
• Structures like the Nalambalam (temple structure surrounding the sanctum sanctorum), Balikkal (sacrificial stone) and Deepastambam (pillar of lights) are situated on the temple premises.
• Dwajasthamba: It is a flagstaff, around 70 feet tall, fully covered with gold.
• The temple is also famous for being home to a large population of captive male Asian elephants.

Udayasthamana Pooja

It is an elaborate ritual conducted to offer continuous prayers and offerings to the deity throughout the day.

• The pooja includes multiple rounds of Abhishekams (ritualistic bathing of the idol), Naivedyams (food offerings), and Aartis (offerings of light).
• The ritual is particularly significant on Vrishchikam Ekadashi, one of the holiest days in the Hindu calendar, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
• Performing this pooja on this day is believed to enhance the spiritual energy of the deity and bring prosperity and blessings to devotees.

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