Ayilyam Nakshatra or birth star in Kumbha Masam as per
Malayalam calendar followed in Kerala is of great significance at Memunda Madam
Temple, which is famous for Nagaraja worship. On this day, special rituals and
pujas dedicated to Snakes including Nagaraja and Nagayakshi are performed. The
shrine is located at Memunda in near Vadakara, Kerala.
The offerings made on the day include Noorum Palum and
Kadalipazham. Special nagapooja and sarpabali are offered in the Naga shrine
here.
It is considered highly auspicious to offer prayers to Nagas
or Snakes on the day. It is believed that people get relief from Naga Doshas by
performing pujas on the day.
Thousands of devotees arrive from various parts of Kerala to
offer prayers at the temple.