Parassini Kadavu Muthappan Temple is a very famous pilgrimage center located on the banks of the Valapattanam river in a place called Parassini Kadavu in Kannur district. Parassini Kadavu is the primary worship center of the North Malabar people, especially the people of Kannur. The main deity of the Malabar people, Sree Muthappan, is worshipped here. This temple is also known as Parassini Muthappan Kavu.
The fact that anyone can visit this temple without any restrictions, regardless of caste or religion, makes this temple different from other temples and makes it more popular. The people of this place believe that Muthappan’s saying is that those who come will not be stopped and those who go will not be called (Vannore vaannore vaannore ponnore vaannore). Therefore, people living in different religions and beliefs also come and go to this temple. Many people from outside Kannur district as well as from outside Kerala visit this temple as visitors. Another unique feature of this temple is that many dogs can be seen near and inside the temple. It is believed that dogs were the constant companions of Sree Muthappan, so dogs are given first priority in this temple.
Another special feature of this temple is that Muthappan Theyyam is performed here daily. Theyyam is a ritual art form of North Kerala. Here, you can see the tying of Theyyam in the morning and evening. Many people, both natives and foreigners, come here to watch Muthappan Theyyam.
Annadanam is an important ceremony for the devotees who visit the temple. Rice and curry are served to the devotees every day in the afternoon and evening. In addition, during the day, tea and a dish made of broad beans are served here. In the past, dried fish was also served here as prasad along with broad beans, but today, since thousands of devotees visit, dried fish is not offered due to lack of practical wisdom.
There are many legends and beliefs behind this temple. The customs and beliefs here are very intertwined with the lives of the people of Kannur. This temple visit will not only help you see and pray, but also help you get to know the cultural heritage of Malabar.
The river in front of Parassini Kadavin and the surrounding area are also very beautiful. Today, there are various types of boating facilities in this river.
If you want to know more about the legend of Sree Muthappan, click here.
