--> Skip to main content


Irinav Thekke Kalari Bhagavathy Kavu Temple – Theyyam Kaliyattam Thira Festival

Irinav Thekke Kalari Bhagavathy Kavu temple is located at Irinav in Kannur district, Kerala. The shrine is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy and numerous other deities that are worshipped commonly in Kalari temples in Kannur region. The annual theyyam thira kaliyattam festival is observed for three days in Malayalam Meena Masam – Meenam 20 to 22 (April 3 to April 5).

The important theyyams that can be witnessed at Irinav Thekke Kalari Bhagavathy Kavu temple are Vishnumoorthi theyyam (Thee Chamundi), Veeran theyyam, Veerakali theyyam, Uchitta theyyam, Puthiya Bhagavathy theyyyam, Bhairavan theyyam, Bhootham theyyam, Gulikan theyyam, Karuval theyyam and Kuttichathan theyyam. Kazha Varavu and Thiruvayudham procession from Sri Kurumba Bhagavathy temple are important rituals here.

This a privately-maintained temple with a small chathura sreekovil – square sanctum sanctorum for the main deity. The roof of the sanctum is decorated with traditional motifs. Some deities are worshipped on small square platforms and under trees. Pujas are held mainly during Sankranti and Vishu.