Soorya, a resident of Kannur, bought his new-born puppy to the Parisinni Temple for his naming ceremony. The Theyyam, a human incarnation of Lord Muthappan, dressed in an intricate costume blessed the baby chanting a few mantras and offered the family some prasadum.
This ceremony is just one out of the thousands held in the Parisinni Temple in Kannur. Lord Muthappa, to whom this temple is devoted, was extremely fond of dogs. Muthappan is a unified form of two gods — Maha Vishnu and Param Shiva. According to legend, the street dogs accompanied him wherever he went. Hence, the temple sees the dogs as avatars of Lord Muthappa and welcomes them with open arms. Two huge bronze sculptures of dogs also welcome the devotees reaching the sanctum sanctorum.
Numerous fluffy dogs can be seen lazily pacing the temple grounds while they eat, sleep, and relax. The dogs' presence doesn't bother the devotees either. For the naming ritual, a number of individuals from various districts bring their puppies to the temple. The naming ceremony for the dogs is held without any payment or receipt.
During the Thiruvappana Vellattam, a popular festival of Kerala, everyone is welcome to bring their pets and seek Sree Muthappan's blessings. These dogs exist not only inside the temple but also in front of the shops around the temple. The shopowners generally keep food to please Muthappan’s friends. They are served vellayappam, a fluffy pancake made of rice, banana fritters They all have access to food and water.
Whether you are a dog-lover or an admirer of Indian culture, this temple definitely offers a unique experience leaving a lasting impression with tails wagging and barks mingling in the prayer hall.
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