Located a short distance from Trichambaram in Taliparamba, Kannur, the Sri Rajarajeswara Temple is one of the most powerful and historically significant Shaivite shrines in South India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva as the “Emperor of Emperors” (Rajarajeswara), this vast six-acre complex holds a high status as a royal spiritual headquarters. According to the sacred geographical texts, it is one of the 108 ancient Shiva temples established by Parashurama, and Taliparamba itself is revered as an ancient Shakti Peetha, where the head of Goddess Sati traditionally fell. The legendary Jyotirlinga enshrined here carries an epic background: it is believed to be the third of the three sacred lingas gifted by Lord Shiva to Goddess Parvati. After the first two disappeared into the earth under the previous sages, the last lingam was handed over to the local Musika king, Satasoma, who, under the guidance of sage Agastya, permanently fixed it into the earth.
Architecturally, the temple is a magnificent example of traditional Malabar design, and was once one of the tallest structural towers of its period. Interestingly, unlike all other temples in Kerala, the Rajarajeshwara temple does not have a flagpole (kodimar), and does not hold a regular annual festival or take the deity outside the walls. Another attractive feature is its namaskara mandapam (prayer hall in front). Local history says that Lord Rama stopped here to pay obeisance to Lord Shiva after his triumphant return from Lanka. The spiritual authority of the temple is so deep throughout South India that whenever an astrological or functional crisis afflicts another prominent southern temple, scholars traditionally go to the Taliparamba and find a solution to the problem (the Astrological Tribunal) at a special elevated seat outside these walls.
What sets the Rajarajeshwara temple apart among modern travel and culture writers is its highly unique and active social customs. Most notably, women are strictly prohibited from entering the courtyard of the Nalambalam during the day, and entry is only permitted in the evening after the last Athaj Puja (around 7:45 PM). According to tradition, at this particular time, the Lord, along with his consort Parvati, is in an unusually happy and gracious mood, making it the most auspicious window for women to get their prayers answered. Additionally, the temple is a legendary patron of classical performing arts, especially Koodiyattam and Chakyar Kooth. The temple has the unique distinction of awarding the prestigious gold bangle called Veerashringkhala to artists who have excelled in their field. The temple is also surrounded by many fascinating local legends, including stories of surviving historical attacks.
