Tavanur Sri Vasudevapuram Temple is one among the three ancient great temples (Maha Kshetram) on the Southern bank of the holy river Bharathapuzha. Sri Vasudevapuram Temple is situated to the east of the other two great temples viz. Maha Siva Temple and Brahma temple (these temples along with the famous Thirunavaya Maha Vishnu temple across the river forms the great trilogy in Sanatana Dharma) [1] The area of Tavanur in which the temple is located is called Muvaankara (മൂവ്വാങ്കര). Since Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva are the presiding deities of the area, it was initially known as Muvalankara, which later became Muvaankara.
This temple is situated in a serene atmosphere in the middle of a wooded area (42 cents) resembling that of Sabarimala. The temple belonged to Maravanchery Mana and now it has been handed over to a registered trust of devotees.
The beautiful and unique Sri Krishna idol made of jet black stone is in the form of child Sri Krishna with butter in both hands. It is believed to have been the idol worshiped by Vilwamangalam Swamiyar.
"Sri Vasudevapuram" temple is built for Vilwamangalam Swamiyar's mother for offering prayer during her old age. Vilwamangalam Swamiyar was so great a Bhaktha (devotee of) Sri Krishna that he was said to possess the ability to actually "see" him. He was instrumental in setting up several famous temples in Kerala such as Thiruvananthapuram, Thiruvaarppu, and Cherthala Kaarthiaayani.[2][3]
Legends
Lord Sri Krishna as a child appeared to a mahatma who was a devout Brahmin and a yathi varyan (Vilwamangalam Swamiyar). He worshiped Lord Sri Krishna in child form in a unique idol. After the disappearance of his mortal body, that devine idol was installed in a temple as per temple rituals for the benefit of common people. The village was dedicated to the Lord of this temple and was rechristened Vasudevapuram. Later a devotee of Lord Shiva brought a Shiva lingam and installed it in the temple for his worship. Ganapathi and Sastha idols were also installed in the temple.[4]
Festivals
Ashtami Rohini in Chingam (August-September) is the birthday of Lord Krishna.[5] That is celebrated every year with cultural programs, procession, and special poojas including Guru pooja (Yatheeswara pooja). The devotees are given special feast on this day.
Niraputhari: This takes place in the month of Chingam. Puthari means new rice. It is the formal beginning of the use of rice after the new harvest season. It is a tradition in Sanatana Dharma that any food, item or work is offered (dedicated) to Lord before it is used. Puthari payasam is offered to Lord.
Kuchela Dinam: The first Wednesday of the month of Dhanu (December) is celebrated as Kuchela Dinam. It is based on the belief that it was on this day that Kuchela, an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna offered Avil (parched rice) to him and in return attained eternal bliss and material prosperity . Avil offering is considered auspicious on this day.
References:
1. Sri Vasudevapuram Kshetram (Malayalam), Published by Sri Vasudevapuram Kshetrasamrakshana Samiti, Tavanur-679573. Ph:9895694935
2. http://www.namboothiri.com/articles/vilwamangalam-swaamiyaar.htm
3. "Aithihyamaala" Kottarathil Sankunni. 1909; Latest edition: Oct. 1985; Published by Kottarathil Sankunny Memorial Committee, Kottayam - 686 001.
4. Proceedings of the Deva Prasnam by Jyothisha Panditha Sri. Mezhathur A. P. Kuttikrishnan Nair, 17th May 1985
5. http://www.guruvayurdevaswom.org/oreligious.shtml
