Mannil Thrikovu Temple – The Only Brahma Temple in Kerala

According to Hindu beliefs, due to a curse from Lord Shiva, Hindus generally do not worship Lord Brahma. However, in rare cases, there are a few temples where Brahma is still worshipped. The most famous example is the Brahma Temple in Pushkar, Rajasthan. Similarly, Kerala also has a rare temple dedicated to Lord Brahma—the Mannil Thrikovu Temple, situated on the northern banks of the Bharathapuzha River in Malappuram district.

Brahma Temple in Kerala – A Rare Place of Worship

It is extremely rare to find a temple dedicated solely to Brahma, not just in Kerala but across the world. While many temples worship the Trimurti (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva) together, a temple exclusively for Brahma is a unique feature.

The Mannil Thrikovu Temple is located in Tavanur, on the Kuttippuram-Chamravattam bus route. The main deity is Chaturmukha Brahma, depicted standing on a lotus emerging from Lord Vishnu’s navel. Lord Ganesha is the sub-deity (Upadevata). The idol of Brahma, facing east, is approximately three feet tall.

Spiritual Beliefs & Worship

According to beliefs, the Navagrahas (nine planets), Pancha Bhootas (five elements), and stars worship Brahma in this temple. It is also believed that Brahma’s divine presence has existed here since the beginning of Satya Yuga, after the great deluge (Mahapralaya).

The temple’s Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum) is circular, known as Vatta Sreekovil in Kerala temple architecture. Below the Chaturmukha Brahma idol, intricate carvings depict Shiva, Parvati, celestial beings, spirits, the five elements, Saraswati, zodiac signs, Navagrahas, serpents, Saptamatrikas, Tithis (lunar phases), seasons, and the five senses.

Located Near Thirunavaya Temple

The famous Cheruthirunavaya Temple is nearby, situated on the southern banks of the Bharathapuzha River. On the other side of the river lies the world famous Thirunavaya Temple, also called Dakshina Kashi (Southern Kashi). Because of its proximity, this sacred land is believed to be a confluence of the Trimurti—Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.

The Mannil Thrikkovil Temple is also said to have been a renowned Vedic learning center in ancient times. It is sometimes referred to as Tavanur Cheruthirunavaya Brahma Temple.

Temple Visit & Worship Timings

The temple is accessible through the south entrance, near Kelappaji Memorial Vocational Higher Secondary School. The north entrance leads to the riverbank, near a Shiva temple. Daily pooja (worship) is conducted once a day, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM.

Also read Malayalam version of same topic.