Kalarivathukkal Bhagavathy Temple is an ancient Bhadrakali shrine located near the Valapattanam River in Kannur district, Kerala. The temple is widely revered as the spiritual mother and patron deity of Kalaripayattu, the traditional martial art of Kerala.
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The temple has historical links with the ancient Chirakkal Kingdom and the Kolathiri rulers of North Malabar. It is believed that the shrine was originally under the ownership of Vadakke Illam before coming under the control of Chirakkal Kovilakam. Built in traditional Kerala architectural style with strong Shakta influences, the temple has remained an important center of worship, martial heritage, and ritual arts for centuries.
Kalarivathukkal Bhagavathy Temple is famous for its deep connection with Kalaripayattu and North Malabar’s ritual traditions. The temple is administered by the Malabar Devaswom Board and is considered one of the important Bhagavathy temples associated with the Chirakkal royal family. The grand Theyyam performances, especially the massive Thirumudi of Kalarivathukkal Amma, attract thousands of devotees and cultural enthusiasts every year.Known for its powerful Theyyam rituals and strong Shakta traditions, the temple is one of the prominent Devi temples of North Malabar.
According to local legend, Goddess Annapoorneshwari arrived from Kasi to the Chirakkal region by boat along with Kalarivathukkal Amma and Madayikkavil Amma. The goddesses came to visit the nearby Krishna temple but never returned, and later became the presiding deities of the region. Because of its association with ancient Kalari training centers, the goddess of Kalarivathukkal came to be worshipped as the protector and mother of Kalaripayattu warriors.
Valapattanam, Kannur, Kerala -670010
Valapattanam, Kannur, Kerala, India
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