KOZHIKODE: Lokanarkavu temple, the well-known pilgrim centre in North Malabar is situated 4 kms off Vadakara in Memunda. Lokanarkavu is frequently referred in the ballads of North Kerala as the legendary hero Thacholi Othenan who was a devotee of the goddess, 'Lokanarkavilamma'.
The temple, with Bhagavati as the main idol and Shiva, Durga as other idols, was built by Aryan's Vaishya Brahmins who migrated to Vadakara some 1500 years back.
They were Brahmins who took up trade as their main occupation. Aryan successors gradually began to accept some of the traditions of local Nairs and forged marital relationships with them.
"From those successors, the administration of the temple went to the Kadathanadu King, then the government. Now the temple is under the Malabar Devasom board," said Venu P.K, the trustee board member of Lokanarkavu temple.
Eight days of pooram held in March is the major festival here. Lokanarkavu is the only temple where a peculiar folk dance called, Poorakkali, which resembles the martial art, Kalaripayattu is presented during festivals.
Even today, all Kalaripayattu artistes seek the blessings of the deity before their debut due to the temple's association with Thacholi Othenan.
Another annual festival is being held in November. During this festival, Thacholikkali, a variant of Poorakkali is presented.
"Most other godess temples in Kerala are in Madhyama and rarely in Uthama state. But this temple is in Athyuthama state," explained Mr Venu.
