Some temples are renowned for their divine sacredness. Some others might be known for the festivals they hold. However, there are only a few temples that attain fame for both of these. The Attukal Bhagavathy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram is one such divine abode. Widely known as the Sabarimala of women, the temple has women as a major portion of its devotees. Located in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram city, the temple has the goddess Bhadrakali as the main deity. On a daily basis, the temple is visited by hundreds of devotees from all parts of the world.
The architecture of the temple speaks volumes of the traditional Tamil and Kerala styles. The figure of goddess Kali is intricately and beautifully carved, and so are the idols of Lord Shiva, goddess Sree Parvathy and the ten incarnations of lord Vishnu. One of the unique aspects that have made the temple world famous is the renowned Attukal Ponkala festival, a ritual performed exclusively by women. This festival has entered the Guinness Book of World Records for being the largest congregation of women assembled in a single place. Women from all parts of Kerala and many parts of India come together for the Ponkala, making the entire city and surroundings a festival venue.
