Erumeli sastha temple

Erumeli sastha temple

Erumely is a village in Kottayam district of Kerala, India. Its considered as holy by both Hindus and Muslims, and situated on the way toSabarimala.Erumely is also known for its religious harmony and Prosperity.

Erumely is the name extract from "erumakolli" (Killed the buffalo). Myth tells that Lord Ayyappa killed "Mahishi", sister of Mahishasur in this place on the way to collect leopard's milk. Mahish means buffalo and "Eruma" in Malayalam and hence the name extract "erumakolli". All Hindus who are going for Sabarimala visit this place. There are two temples in this town of Lord Ayyappa and the famous Petta Thullal is done in November, December & January months. Erumely Nainar Masjid is situated opposite to Erumely Cheriya Ambalam. Ayyaapan devotes visits Vavar Swamy at Nainar Masjid before visiting Ayyappa Swami. Vavar is considered as the companion of Ayyappa. Devotes believe that Vavar swami is at the masjid. Devotes goes to Cheriya Ambalam from the masjid. Then they will go to the Valiya Ambalam. The visit to Vavar Swamy and Valiyambalam is done in the form a dance known as Pettathulal. This is done by coloring self, holding wooden bows and arrows. The myth is that during the killing of Mahishi, the local tribals had helped Ayyapa Swamy and post the killing, they danced in joy. Pettathulal represents the joy amongst the people.At the end of the ayyappa season there is festival called Pettathullal where people from Ambalapuzha and Aalangattu will perform this. Ambalapuzha goes first and they will move to the Valiyambalam as usual. The Aalangattu will start this after the 'Krishnaparunth' and star is seen.