The fascinating history behind Kerala¡¯s Temple festival where men dress as women

Chamayavilakku at the Kottankulangara Sree Devi Temple: Each year, a special festival takes place at the Kottankulangara Sree Devi Temple in Chavara, Kollam district, Kerala, where men dress in women's clothing as a sign of devotion. This festival, called Chamayavilakku, lasts for 10-12 days in March and ends with a night where men of all ages dress as women and carry lamps with five wicks to honour the goddess.

Tradition of Chamayavilakku festival

The tradition of Chamayavilakku is centuries old and stems from a local legend. According to the tale, cowherd boys used to dress as girls and play around a stone they worshipped as a deity. One day, the Goddess appeared to them from the stone. This miraculous event led to the creation of the temple and the practice of men dressing in women's clothing as an offering to the Goddess.

People from around the temple and other parts of Kerala, as well as nearby South Indian states, join the festival. The transgender community also takes part with enthusiasm, adding to the festival¡¯s inclusiveness and diversity. The event is a lively display of faith, where men carefully shave, apply makeup, and wear colourful saris, transforming themselves to seek blessings and fulfill vows made to the deity.

Chamayavilakku at the Kottankulangara Sree Devi Temple The Fascinating History Behind Kerala¡¯s Temple Festival Where Men Dress as Women | TOI

Story of Chamayavilakku festival

The Chamayavilakku festival is deeply rooted in local culture. Men from the four 'karas' or shores linked to the festival¡ªChavara, Puthukad, Kulangara, and Kottakkakam¡ªtake part in the ritual. Preparations begin weeks ahead, with participants buying new saris, jewellery, and having blouses made for the occasion. On the festival day, their wives or female relatives help them get dressed for the procession to the temple.

The festival also has a daytime event called 'Kakkavilakku,' where boys under 10 dress like girls and hold lamps. The main event, Chamayavilakku, starts in the evening and continues until dawn. Participants carry the Chamayavilakku, hoping to gain favour from the Goddess for various reasons, from clearing debts to seeking forgiveness for sins.

Kottankulangara Sree Devi Temple timings

The temple is open to visitors during the auspicious hours of 2 AM to 5 AM, and many travel to see this extraordinary event. Temporary shacks set up by beauticians near the temple offer services to help men dress up, ensuring they look as authentic as possible.

The Chamayavilakku festival is more than just a religious event; it is a cultural phenomenon that breaks traditional gender and societal roles. It is a time when men express their devotion in a way that defies conventional expectations, showing a fluidity in gender expression that is rare and profound.

The festival has gained attention on social media, with vibrant images and videos capturing the essence of this ancient tradition. While locals are used to the festival, they are often amused by the widespread interest it attracts. For many, it is a heartfelt offering, a custom that has been part of their lives for generations.

Chamayavilakku at the Kottankulangara Sree Devi Temple The Fascinating History Behind Kerala¡¯s Temple Festival Where Men Dress as Women | TOI

The Kottankulangara Sree Devi Temple¡¯s Chamayavilakku festival keeps the legend of the cowherd boys¡¯ divine encounter alive for future generations. It is not just a religious ritual; it is a vibrant celebration of faith, culture, and the human spirit.

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