Alappuzha Chandanakkavu Saraswathi temple is located in Alappuzha town in Kerala. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi, the Goddess of learning, arts and music in Hindu religion. The temple was earlier known as Annavi Veedu Saraswathi Kshetram.
Alappuzha Chandanakkavu Saraswathi – History
As per history the temple was built by Saiva Vellalars who arrived here from Tamil Nadu during ancient times. They arrived here from Sankarankovil. The murti of Goddess Saraswati belonged to Annavi family, who were famous for poojas, jyotish and Ayurveda. Goddess Saraswati and Goddess Bhadra were their family deity.
The upa devatas worshipped in the temple are Ganapathi, Shiva, Valkannadi, Karnavar, Paradesi and Yakshi. A Muslim Sufi - Siddha who was a friend of the family head who built the shrine is worshipped here in the form of Kapiri,
The temple is famous for Ezhuthiniruthu or Vidyarambham held on the Vijayadashami day after the nine-day Navratri festival. Ashtami, Pooja Vaippu and Navami are observed in the temple.
The important festivals held in the temple are Navratri, Shivratri and 41-day Mandala Kalam beginning on Vrischikam 1.
The annual Kavadi procession to Chandanakkavu Pillayar Koil begins from Chandanakkavu Saraswathi temple.