Estimated to be at least 1500 years old, the Subrahmanya Swami Temple in Kidangoor is noteworthy for its unique rituals and remarkable architecture. Lord Subrahmanya, the eponymous presiding deity of the temple, is venerated here as 'Thrikidangoorappan'.
Lord Subrahmanya is worshipped here in his 'Brahmachari Bhava' (celibate form). It is believed that the Lord treats all women who enter the temple as his mother and as a son, it is his duty to stand up and greet her with respect. In order to avoid this situation, women are not permitted to enter the 'Nalambalam'.
The sculptural work inside the 'Koothambalam' (temple theatre) is exceptional because of its adherence to Bharata Muni's concept of Natya Shastra. Perumthachan, the legendary master carpenter, is believed to be the architect behind the construction of this theatre. Scenes from the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata are carved beautifully here. A huge pillar fashioned from the wood of 'Kurumthotti', a rare and valued medicinal plant is another speciality of Subrahmanya Swami Temple.
The annual ten-day festival of the temple is celebrated in the Malayalam month of Kumbham (February - March). 'Thaipooyam', a festival significant to Subramanya devotees all around the world, is also observed with great importance here. The traditional customs and the distinctive structural features add to the old-world charm of the temple.
