Sri Moozhikkalathaan Perumal Temple is also known as Thirumoozhikkulam Sri Lakshmana Perumal Temple. It is in Thirumoozhikkulam, Ernakulam and revered as one of the 108 Divya Desam Temple, that is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The shrine is enclosed in an extensive area.
Legends state that Hareetha Maharshi, a sage performed penance towards Lord Vishnu for years on the banks of Chalakudy or Poorna River. Pleased by his unshakable devotion, Lord Vishnu appeared before him at the beginning of the Kali Yuga and advised Hareetha Maharshi to overcome the hurdles in the dark age. As Lord Vishnu gave some advice, it is named as “Thirumozhi” (sacred words). And thus the place is called as Thirumozhikalam. Later the locals called it Thirumoozhikkulam.
The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Vishnu. Thirumoozhikkulam Lakshmana Perumal Temple is closely associated with the Ramayana. It was believed that the idols of Sreerama, Bharatha, Lakshmana and Shathrukhna were the idols of Lord Krishna. At the end of the Dvapara Yuga, the idols were descended into the sea. And the four idols were found near Triprayar by fishermen.
The idols were handed over to Vakkay Kaimal, landlord of the region. One night Vakkay Kaimal dreamt that the four idols have been washed ashore and should be installed in four different places. The places for installation were also mentioned to Vakkay Kaimal.
The locations of the four idols are:
It is believed that visiting the four temples on the same day is exceptionally worthy. During the festival conducted in July – August, the pilgrims visit all the four temples, which is termed as “Nalambalam”.
Three main festivals celebrated in Thirumoozhikkulam Lakshmana Perumal Temple are: