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Ochira
Location: 34 kms north of Kollam town.
This is a unique place of worship, which has neither a structure to
house an idol nor an idol to worship. The abstract principle of the
Parabrahmam or the Universal consciousness is the presiding deity here.
Ochira Kali, the annual festival at the Parabrahma temple highlights
the martial skills of the participants. The historical background of
the festival is linked with the erstwhile rulers of princely states
of Kayamkulam and Ambalappuzha. The rulers of Kayamkulam and Ambalappuzha
are said to have fought a battle at this place, and the festival is
conducted to commemorate the historical event. On these days martial
displays are presented in the morning, turning the padanilam (battle
field) into an arena of action-packed artistry. Men irrespective of
age engage in mock duels wielding wooden sticks in their hands on a
vast ground filled with water up to the knee level.
Getting there:
Nearest railway station: Ochira, few minutes drive from the temple.
Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about
105 kms away.
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