Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the temple located?
Punnamkonam Sree Bhagavathy Temple is located at Kachani near Nettayam in Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala. It is a traditional community temple with strong local devotional importance.
Who is the main deity of the temple?
The main deity of the temple is Bala Durga (Baladurga), a youthful form of the Divine Mother. Devotees worship Bala Durga for protection, courage, children’s welfare, education, prosperity, and family harmony.
Where is the Nagarukavu located?
The sacred Nagarukavu (serpent grove) associated with the temple is located approximately 100 meters away from the main temple. Devotees visit the Nagarukavu to offer prayers to serpent deities such as Nagaraja and Nagayakshi for family well-being, fertility, and removal of naga dosha.
Is there a temple pond nearby?
Yes. A sacred temple pond (kulam) is situated about 50 meters from the main temple on the path leading to the Nagarukavu. Devotees consider the pond spiritually significant and may offer prayers or perform purification rituals before visiting the Nagarukavu.
Where is the Vazhiyambalam located?
The temple’s Vazhiyambalam is located at the Kachani High School Junction, approximately 250 meters from the main temple. It plays an important role during temple festivals and processions, serving as a ceremonial stop during the deity’s procession.
What rituals and poojas are commonly performed?
Daily poojas, deeparadhana, archana, and special offerings to Bala Durga are performed at the temple. Devotees also conduct naga-related rituals at the Nagarukavu. Special offerings are made for protection, prosperity, health, and family welfare.
What are the major festival observances?
The temple celebrates annual festival days, Navaratri, and other Bhagavathy-related observances according to the Malayalam calendar. During festivals, processions may include the temple, pond, Nagarukavu, and Vazhiyambalam as part of the traditional ritual route.
Why is this temple spiritually significant to locals?
The temple is considered special because of its traditional Kerala sacred layout that includes the Bala Durga main shrine, a separate Nagarukavu, a sacred pond on the pathway, and a Vazhiyambalam used during processions. Together, these create a spiritually complete temple ecosystem that holds deep devotional importance for the local community.