Navarathri festival at Kollur Mookambika Temple

The Navarathri festival at Kollur Mookambika Temple is regarded as a sacred time for devotees to offer prayers to Goddess Shakthi and her various manifestations. Each year, millions of pilgrims flock to the temple over these nine auspicious days. In South India, Vijayadashami is particularly significant for young children, marking the beginning of their education, known as Vidya Arambam.

During the Navarathri festivities, a variety of special poojas are conducted, including the Shatha Rudrabhishekas and the Kalpoktha Navarathri Special Pooja held each night. This nine-day celebration features the Navadurgalankara, a ritual honoring the nine forms of the Goddess. On Mahanavami Day, the ninth day of the festival, a grand Car Festival (Rathotsava) takes place, showcasing the Devi on a beautifully adorned Pushparatha. Throughout the nine days, the “Chandi” Sthotra is recited daily, along with the performance of the Chandika Homa. The celebrations culminate on Vijayadashami Day, when thousands of devotees participate in the Aksharabhyasa Seva at the Saraswathi Mantapa, marking a significant moment for new learners.