Valayanad Bhagavathi , honored as the family goddess of the Zamorin Kings of Kozhikode, is linked to a well-known legend. In a fierce battle with Valluva Konathiri, the king of Valluvanad, the Zamorin was surprisingly defeated, even though he had a stronger army and more wealth. Wondering why he lost, the Zamorin believed that Valluva Konathiri success was due to Bhagavathi’s blessings. Disguised, the Zamorin went to the Thirumanthamkunnu temple, the family temple of Valluva Konathiri, to meditate and seek her favor.
The annual festival begins each year on the day of Karthika in the month of Makaram and lasts for seven days. During this time, the Devi Udaval is kept at the Tali Mahadeva Temple. A few days prior, it is taken to the Valayanad Temple. The festival features Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, Thiruvathira, Chendamelam (Tayambaka), Ganamela, and Nadakam. Palivetta and Arattu are key rituals. Thottam Pattu is also held in April at Tarakal Kavu.
