Sree Mridanga Shaileshwari Temple Muzhakkunnu

Sree Mridanga Shaileshwari Temple Muzhakkunnu is one of the most revered Devi shrines in Kannur district, Kerala, located in the quiet village of Muzhakkunnu. Counted among the 108 Durga temples said to have been established by Lord Parasurama, this ancient shrine holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for devotees across the region. Surrounded by dense greenery, the temple often gives visitors the feeling of stepping into a sacred forest grove rather than a conventional temple complex.

The origin of the temple is tied to an interesting legend involving the Mridangam, a traditional percussion instrument. It is believed that the instrument descended from the heavens and landed at this very spot, and the Goddess rose to receive it, leaving behind a pit that can still be seen today. This divine event is said to have given the hill its name, Muzhakkunnu, meaning "the hill that echoes," and led to the Goddess being worshipped here as Mridanga Shaileshwari.

Inside the sanctum, the deity is worshipped in two forms, as Mridanga Shaileshwari, associated with Saraswati and the arts, and as Porkali, linked to Chamunda. The temple is closely connected to the artistic heritage of Kerala, with strong ties to the origins of Kathakali's female character portrayals. It also served as the family deity of the Kottayam royal dynasty and the legendary warrior king Veera Pazhassi Raja, adding historical weight to its spiritual stature.

Today, the temple continues to draw devotees for its peaceful atmosphere, well-maintained pond, and the daily annadhanam (food offering) served to visitors. Morning darshan runs from 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM and evening darshan from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Located at Muzhakkunnu, Kerala 670673, the temple remains an important spiritual and cultural landmark for those exploring Kannur's heritage sites.