Traditional Sivalaya Ottam in Kanyakumari: Devotees Run 108 km to Worship 12 Shiva Temples
Ahead of Maha Shivaratri, the Sivalaya Ottam (Shiva Temple Run) commenced in Kanyakumari district with great devotion. Thousands of devotees, undeterred by the scorching heat, embark on a 108-kilometer spiritual marathon, running across 12 ancient Shiva temples to seek divine blessings.
A Historic and Traditional Spiritual Event
The Sivalaya Ottam is a centuries-old tradition, believed to have originated during the Travancore royal era. It is a unique religious event where devotees undertake an arduous journey, running barefoot to visit all 12 Shiva temples in a single day. The practice is seen as a way to attain both physical purification and spiritual enlightenment.
Observing Fasting and Wearing the Sacred Mala
Seven days before Maha Shivaratri, devotees adorn the sacred Rudraksha mala (garland) and follow strict fasting rituals. They refrain from consuming certain foods, maintain celibacy, and immerse themselves in meditation and devotional prayers to prepare for the sacred run.
Commencement of the Sacred Run
On the eve of Maha Shivaratri, the event begins at the Munchirai Thirumalai Mahadevar Temple, where devotees gather in large numbers. As the first temple in the sequence, special abhishekams (holy baths), prayers, and rituals are performed before the devotees start their journey. While the crowd assembles early in the morning, the momentum peaks around midday, with thousands joining the run.
The 12 Shiva Temples of Sivalaya Ottam
The devotees run barefoot to visit the following 12 temples in order:
- Munchirai Thirumalai Mahadevar Temple
- Thikkurichi Mahadevar Temple
- Tirparappu Veerabhadra Temple
- Thirunanthikkarai Shiva Temple
- Ponmanai Mahadevar Temple
- Pannippagam Shiva Temple
- Kalkulam Neelakandeswarar Temple
- Melancode Mahadevar Temple
- Thiruvithamcode Sadaiyappar Temple
- Thiruvidaicode Mahadevar Temple
- Thirupanrikodu Mahadevar Temple
- Thirunattalam Sankaranarayanar Temple
Final Destination and Maha Shivaratri Celebrations
The sacred run concludes at the Thirunattalam Sankaranarayanar Temple, where devotees stay awake throughout the night in devotion, observing Maha Shivaratri. Special pujas, Rudrabhishekams, and bhajans take place, creating an atmosphere of deep spirituality.
Support for the Devotees Along the Route
Given the 108-kilometer distance covered in a single day, local communities and organizations set up refreshment stalls along the route. They provide herbal water, buttermilk, palm fruit, tender coconut, jaggery water, porridge, bananas, and groundnuts to energize the participants. Additionally, arrangements are made for elderly devotees who wish to visit the temples using vehicles instead of running.
Local Holiday Announcement
Recognizing the cultural and religious significance of this event, Kanyakumari district authorities have declared a local holiday to facilitate participation and ensure smooth proceedings.
Conclusion
The Sivalaya Ottam is more than just a religious tradition; it is a test of endurance, devotion, and discipline. Rooted in the rich spiritual history of the Travancore kingdom, this event continues to thrive with unwavering enthusiasm and deep faith among devotees.
