Chavarcode Thrikkunnathu Kavu Sree Indilayappan Temple is an ancient Sastha temple located in Chavarkode village, about 3 km south of Parippally, in Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala.
The Supreme Lord Dharma Sastha, who shines resplendent in the form of the Chinmudra (the gesture of pure consciousness) within the Shadadhara installation, resides here in the form of Indilayappan at Thrikkunnathu Kavu.
Shadadhara: A complex tantric installation representing the six energy centers (Chakras) of the body.
Chinmudra: A sacred hand gesture where the index finger touches the thumb, symbolizing the union of individual soul and supreme consciousness.
Neeranjanam: A specific ritual involving lighting a lamp (usually with sesame oil and black cloth) to appease Lord Shani (Saturn).
Devotees, regardless of caste or creed, offer Neeranjanam (traditional oil lamp offering) daily to Indilayappan to bring an end to the hardships of the Kali Yuga and to seek relief from the malevolent effects of Saturn (Shani Dosha). Known affectionately as ‘Vellappan’, Lord Dharma Sastha remains ever-responsive to the calls of his devotees, putting an end to their sorrows and afflictions.
The name "Indilayappan" signifies the deity who "extinguishes distress" (Indal Ilakkunna). There is also a sacred grove (Kavu) adjacent to the temple, which is likely why the place came to be known as Thrikkunnathu Kavu.
Main Deity and Sub-Deities
The main deity of the temple is Lord Dharma Sastha, worshipped here in the form of Indilayappan.
The temple also houses several sub-deities:
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Lord Ganapathy
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Lord Shiva
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Goddess Bhagavathi
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Yakshi Amma
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Serpent deities (Nagathans)
Spiritual Significance
Lord Indilayappan is believed to be the remover of sorrow and suffering. Devotees light lamps (Neeranjanam) daily to seek relief from the hardships of the Kali Yuga and to reduce the effects of Saturn (Shani dosha).
Affectionately known as “Vellappan”, the deity is believed to respond to devotees’ prayers and alleviate their troubles.
The name Indilayappan itself signifies “the one who removes distress.”
Temple and Sacred Grove
The temple is associated with a sacred grove (Kavu), which is why it is known as Thrikkunnathu Kavu.
Importance During Mandala Season
The temple holds special importance during the Mandala season.
It also serves as a resting and preparation point for Ayyappa devotees, many of whom begin their pilgrimage to Sabarimala from here after performing rituals.
Offerings and Rituals
The temple is especially known for rituals related to relief from Saturn-related astrological afflictions, including:
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Neeranjanam (lamp offering)
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Nagarootu (serpent-related ritual)
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Mrityunjaya Homam
Devotees visit to seek relief from:
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Sade Sati (seven-and-a-half Saturn period)
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Kantaka Shani
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Ashtama Shani
These rituals are believed to bring peace, prosperity, and well-being.
Important Days
Special days observed at the temple include:
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Vidyarambham (initiation into learning)
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Mandala season
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First Wednesday of every month
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First Saturday of every month
Annual Festival (Aswathi Thirunal Mahotsavam)
The grand annual festival is celebrated for 8 days during the Malayalam month of Kumbham.
Festival Highlights:
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Flag hoisting marks the beginning
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Pallivetta (royal hunt ritual)
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Arattu (holy bath ceremony) marks the conclusion
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Processions featuring serpent deities
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Nedumkuthira (giant horse effigy procession)
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Special poojas and rituals
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Urul Vazhipadu (rolling offering ritual)
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Decorative lighting and cultural programs
Bhagavathy Pongala Festival
Another major event is the Bhagavathy Pongala festival in the Malayalam month of Edavam.
Key Features:
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Community Pongala (offering prepared by devotees)
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Annadanam (free food distribution)
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Kalam ezhuthu and devotional songs
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Processions with Bhagavathy’s sword and anklets
Other Important Observances
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Vinayaka Chaturthi
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Mandala–Makaravilakku festival
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Pooja Vaippu
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Vidyarambham
This temple is revered as a powerful place of worship for devotees seeking blessings, peace, and relief from hardships, especially those related to Saturn’s influence.