About Koottala Sree Rama Temple
The Story
Nestled in the serene village of Koottala in Palakkad, Kerala, the Sree Rama Temple stands as a timeless symbol of devotion and spirituality. Shrouded in mystery, no one knows when or by whom it was built, but it is believed to be several hundreds of years old. The temple's main deity is Lord Rama, revered as the Mahavishnu Swaroopy, radiating divine grace and protection. The sanctum also houses Sri Ganapathy, Subramania Swamy, and Vettakkorumakan (Sastha) as the other deities, while Nagam and Rakshas reside outside the temple premises, with Vanadurga nearby. Ramanavami is celebrated as the temple’s grandest festival, accompanied by joyous rituals and devotion. Special poojas are performed during Karkitaka month, and on Ayilyam star days, poojas and milk abhishekam are offered to Naga Devata. For generations, the Koottala family has regarded the temple as their sacred cornerstone, dedicating themselves to its upkeep. They faithfully conduct daily rituals, special poojas, and grand festivals, preserving the temple's divine essence and rich heritage while honoring their ancestral legacy.
Koottala Family
The Koottala family, originating from the tranquil village of Koottala in Palakkad, has been deeply rooted in tradition and devotion for generations. Blessed by the grace of Lord Sree Rama, the family has taken on the noble responsibility of preserving and maintaining the sacred Sree Rama Temple of Koottala. Their unwavering faith and dedication drive them to conduct rituals, poojas, and festivals with heartfelt devotion, ensuring the temple remains a vibrant center of spirituality. Through their efforts, the Koottala family continues to honor their ancestral legacy and uphold the divine blessings bestowed upon them.
The Agraharam
Koottala, our quaint agraharam village in Palakkad District, Kerala, is a hidden gem nestled in a remote area, about a 30-minute drive from Palakkad town. For visitors traveling by bus, you can get down at Erimayur bus stop, just before Alathur, and take an auto to the Koottala Sree Rama Temple, usually costing around ₹25.
Once home to 18 closely-knit families, all related as ‘dhayadhis,’ Koottala flourished on the values of mutual respect and shared traditions. These deeply rooted principles fostered a strong sense of unity, with temple functions serving as a vital platform for resolving differences and strengthening community bonds. The temple, built by the ancestors, became the heart of the village, bringing harmony and joy to its people.
Though time has weathered most of the houses, the Sree Rama Temple remains a lasting symbol of unity and devotion. In the past, each family owned land and contributed a portion to the temple to ensure a steady income for its maintenance and rituals, a tradition that continues to uphold the temple’s legacy.