Kottankulangara Sree Bhagavathy Temple, located in Chavara, Kollam, is a unique and revered Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy. It is especially famous for the annual Chamayavilakku festival, where thousands of male devotees dress as women to seek the blessings of the goddess, blending devotion, tradition, and inclusivity in a rare cultural expression.
Kottankulangara Sree Bhagavathy Temple is a prominent shrine in Kerala known not only for its spiritual significance but also for the distinctive Chamayavilakku festival. Devotees believe that sincere prayers to the goddess bring peace, prosperity, and personal transformation. The temple stands as a symbol of devotion transcending gender norms, with the festival drawing devotees and curious visitors from all over the country.
The temple architecture reflects traditional Kerala style, featuring a sanctum sanctorum, tiled roof, and a serene temple pond. The deity is worshipped in the form of Durga Bhagavathy, and rituals are performed with utmost discipline by the temple priests and volunteers. The surrounding area becomes vibrant during festivals, especially Chamayavilakku, held annually in the Malayalam month of Meenam (March–April).
Apart from the main festival, the temple holds regular poojas, special homams, and cultural programs. It is also a place of social harmony and community participation, reflecting Kerala’s inclusive spiritual fabric.