Chittoorkavu Devi Temple

Chittoorkavu Devi Temple, an ancient Hindu temple reciting the interesting tales of Goddess Kali, is located in the township boundary of Chittoor municipality in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. The temple is located at a distance of almost 15 kms from Palakkad town. Goddess Durga in the form of Chittoorkavu is worshipped in the temple.

Legend of Chittoorkavu Devi Temple
An interesting legend associated with the deity of the temple narrates the story of the divine birth of Goddess Kali. Daruka, a wicked demon, once with his severe penances pleased Lord Brahma who bestowed upon him the miraculous boon of being triumphant over all beings. With his power he thus, conquered the three worlds terrorising humans and devas likewise. The Devas, enduring the continuous torment of the demon, approached Lord Shiva for help. Raged and infuriated the Lord out of his fire of anger gave birth to Goddess Kali and entrusted her with job of annihilating the demon. However, killing the demon was not an easy task to accomplish as he was blessed with the boon that each drop of blood that oozed out his body and fell on the earth would multiply into another demon. Thus, to prevent the blood from spilling on the ground Lord Shiva created a genie (evil spirit). The goddess then mounted on the neck of the genie and fought against Daruka. Finally, the Goddess chopped off Daruka`s head and held it on a triple pointed lance. The blood that gushed out was sucked by the genie and the other evil spirits.

History of Chittoorkavu Devi Temple
The historical records of Malabar suggest that long ago the Kongan army once penetrated into Chittoor through the mountain pass. A fierce later ensued between the residents of Chittoor and the Kongan army. It is said that in the fight the denizens were assisted by Goddess Chittoorkavu that helped win against the intruders.

Thus, to commemorate the event every year the Chittoorkavu Devi Temple celebrates the `Konganpada` festival with great enthusiasm and gusto. `Chanthattom` serves as the significant ritualistic offering of the goddess presented by devotees to the deity.