Every place has stories to tell. Certain legends, beliefs, and historical memories passed down through generations by time... Thevarthumala, situated in the 9th ward of Kattampack within Neezhoor Grama Panchayat, is a region holding numerous such stories close to its heart. There is a fascinating legend behind the name of this hill, which is linked with the history of the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple.

A Divine Vision and the Discovery of the Shiva Idol

According to legend, during the construction period of the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple, the king of that time had a vision in a dream that the Shiva idol to be consecrated in the temple would manifest as a Swayambhu (self-manifested) at the right time.

Elders recount that around the time the temple construction was nearing completion, a miraculous event took place on a hill rising between the eastern and western parts of Kattampack.

It is believed that an Adivasi woman who came to unearth wild tubers suddenly saw blood while digging the soil with her spade and fled in fear. A Shiva lingam reportedly appeared in that exact spot.

That event, said to have taken place in an ordinary forested area, later became a significant chapter in the belief history of a community.

Kottaram Devi Temple and Rituals of the Idol

Following the dream vision received by the king, royal attendants arrived at the site, cleared the forest, and discovered the Shiva idol, according to legend.

As per beliefs passed down by elders, rituals were performed for three days at the Kottaram Devi Temple in Kattampack until preparations for consecrating the idol in the Ettumanoor temple were finalized.

Subsequently, legend states that the idol was taken to the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple for the necessary consecration ceremonies.

How Did the Name 'Thevarthumala' Originate?

Local legend says that the hill where the Shiva idol was reportedly discovered came to be known as Thevarthumala. A theological interpretation that "Thevar uyarthumala" (the hill raised by the Lord) is also associated with this name.

Mannathikkallu – An Indelible Mark

It is said that near the spot where the idol was supposedly discovered, a unique granite stone distinct from the surrounding laterite rocks of the area where the Adivasi woman dug the soil still stands today. This stone is known among local residents as Mannathikkallu (The Washerwoman's Stone).

Another fascinating fact about this area is that the hollow in the laterite rock where the idol is believed to have emerged still retains water even during the summer season.

Historical Connection with Ettumanoor Temple

Another important piece of information associated with the ancient history of Kattampack is its connection with the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple.

Old revenue records reportedly document properties in Kattampack under the name of Ettumanoor Devaswom Thottam (Garden). This reference serves as a historical clue to learn more about the region's ancient temple connections.

The Tradition of Velakali Passed Through Generations

The right to perform Velakali at the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple still rests with the people of Kattampack, which is highlighted as a unique heritage of this region.

The history of a region is not confined merely to its buildings and place names. It survives through the customs, rights, and beliefs handed down through generations. Kattampack's heritage is a testament to this.