.png "Pilgrim center, Sabarimala Temple, Erumeli/Erumely, Gateway town,Kerala Koratty River, Communal harmony, Erumeli Sastha Temple, Erumeli Mosque, Vavar Swamy, Lord Ayyappa, Petta Thullal, Legends, Mahishi Mardanam, Etymology, Malayalam, Pathinettam padi, Sacred spot, Muslim warrior, Kurumulakku (whole pepper), Sandalwood paste (chandan),Karpooram Agarbhati,Cultural heritage, Spiritual significance,")
Erumeli, also spelled Erumely, holds great significance as a prominent pilgrim center located approximately 65 km from Kottayam and 13 km south of Kanjirappally, in the Kottayam District of Kerala. It serves as a tranquil base camp for those on their way to the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple, with the Koratty River demarcating the entrance to the town.
What sets Erumeli apart is its reputation as a place of communal harmony, exemplified by the coexistence of the Erumeli Sastha Temple (Kochambalam) and the Erumeli Mosque, facing each other. The Erumeli mosque is dedicated to Vavar Swamy, believed to be the trusted companion of Lord Ayyappa. Pilgrims also pay their respects at the mosque. An intriguing aspect of Erumeli is the Petta Thullal (Erumeli Pettathullal or Erumeli Petta Thullal), a ritual dance performed by Sabarimala pilgrims.
.png "Pilgrim center, Sabarimala Temple, Erumeli/Erumely, Gateway town,Kerala Koratty River, Communal harmony, Erumeli Sastha Temple, Erumeli Mosque, Vavar Swamy, Lord Ayyappa, Petta Thullal, Legends, Mahishi Mardanam, Etymology, Malayalam, Pathinettam padi, Sacred spot, Muslim warrior, Kurumulakku (whole pepper), Sandalwood paste (chandan),Karpooram Agarbhati,Cultural heritage, Spiritual significance,")
The etymology of Erumely can be traced back to the Malayalam words "Eruma Kolly." According to legends, it is the place where Lord Ayyappa vanquished the demon buffalo Mahishi while on his quest to collect tiger milk. As a result, Lord Sree Ayyappa Swamy is also referred to as "Mahishi Mardanam." Over time, the name Erumakolli evolved into Erumely.
Vavarswami, or Vavar, played a pivotal role as the trusted lieutenant of Lord Ayyappa. This Muslim warrior led Ayyappa's army in various battles against the enemies of the land. The sacred spot of Vavar can be found below the eastern side of the "pathinettam padi" or the holy eighteen steps at the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple.
Originally a thug, Vavar's life and perspective underwent a transformation after being defeated by Ayyappa. Following Lord Ayyappa's guidance, Vavar became his closest friend. One notable event in their history was when Vavar led Ayyappa's army against Maravappada from Erumeli. This event is commemorated through the Petta Thulla ceremony held at the Erumeli temple and mosque.
At the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple, Vavar is honored with offerings of kurumulakku (whole pepper), sandalwood paste (chandan), karpooram, and agarbhati.
Erumeli stands as a town of rich cultural heritage and profound spiritual significance, drawing people from different walks of life to experience its unique blend of traditions.