The annual Thiruvutsavam of the temple is observed with profound devotion, strict ritual discipline, and age-old customs that reflect the temple’s legendary heritage.
Temple Address & Location
Muhamma Cheerappanchira Mukkalvettam Sree Ayyappa Swamy Temple
Muhamma P.O
Alappuzha District – 688525
Kerala, India
The temple is easily accessible from Alappuzha and nearby towns, and it attracts devotees from across Kerala and beyond.
Thiruvutsavam 2026 – Festival
The Thiruvutsavam of 2026 is scheduled to commence in the first half of March and will be celebrated through a sequence of sacred rituals and ceremonial processions.
Festival Commencement – Kappu Kettu
Date: Wednesday, 4 March 2026
The festival begins with Kappu Kettu, the ritual tying of the sacred wrist thread. This ceremony marks the formal commencement of the Thiruvutsavam and signifies the devotees’ vow of purity, discipline, and devotion throughout the festival period. From this day onward, the temple atmosphere becomes deeply spiritual, filled with prayers, chants, and traditional observances.
Sacred Procession from the Tharavad
Date: Tuesday, 10 March 2026
One of the most spiritually significant events of the festival is the procession from the ancestral tharavad (family home). On this day, the sacred Vaal (sword), Kacha (war attire), and the divine presence of Machile Bhagavathi are ceremoniously brought to the temple. This ritual symbolizes the martial and protective aspect of Lord Ayyappa and highlights the temple’s identity as His Ayodhana Kalari.
The procession is accompanied by traditional music, temple instruments, and devoted participation of the local community.
Pattum Thaliyum, Thiripidutham & Thalappoli
As the festival progresses, important ceremonial offerings such as Pattum Thaliyum (sacred silk and ornaments) are adorned to the deity. Thiripidutham, a powerful ritual involving sacred flames, represents divine energy, protection, and spiritual illumination. Thalappoli, with women carrying decorated lamps and offerings, adds grace, devotion, and cultural beauty to the celebrations.
Valiya Guruthi – Grand Ritual Offering
Date: Friday, 13 March 2026
The festival concludes with the powerful and awe-inspiring Valiya Guruthi, a grand ritual offering dedicated to the fierce and protective aspects of the divine. This ritual is believed to remove negative forces, protect devotees, and restore cosmic balance. The temple premises resonate with divine energy, marking a spiritually intense conclusion to the Thiruvutsavam.
Spiritual Significance
The Thiruvutsavam at Muhamma Cheerappanchira Mukkalvettam Sree Ayyappa Swamy Temple is not merely a festival but a living expression of devotion, valor, and divine protection. Participation in the rituals is believed to bestow courage, spiritual strength, and the blessings of Lord Ayyappa and Malikappurathamma.
The Thiruvutsavam 2026 at Muhamma Cheerappanchira Mukkalvettam Sree Ayyappa Swamy Temple stands as a sacred convergence of legend, ritual, and devotion. Devotees are invited to take part in the ceremonies with faith and humility and to receive the divine grace of Lord Ayyappa.
Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa