|
|
Kodungalloor,
50 kms north of Kochi, was the ancient port
town of Muziris or Crangannore. Goddess Bhagavathi is the presiding deity
of the ancient temple here.
The Bharani Festival, which falls in the Malayalam month of Meenam
(March/ April) attracts the largest congregation of 'Velichappadu'
(Oracles), including women from different parts of the State.
Once in a trance, these Oracles perform a frenzied dance, repeatedly
slashing their foreheads with curved swords. As a supreme symbol of their
devotion, they make a sacrificial offering of their own blood to the
deity.