Ekadashi Villaku and Chembai Music Festival in Guruvayur Temple
Guruvayur, often referred to as the "Dwarka of the South," is one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in Kerala, home to the famous Guruvayurappan Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Among the numerous religious and cultural events that take place at the temple, two significant ones that draw pilgrims and music lovers alike are the Ekadashi Villaku and the Chembai Music Festival.
Ekadashi Villaku
The “Ekadashi Villaku” is a special ritual observed on
Ekadashi, the 11th day of both the waxing and waning phases of the moon in the
Hindu lunar calendar. Ekadashi is considered an auspicious day for fasting,
prayer, and spiritual cleansing, and is particularly significant in
Vaishnavism. At Guruvayur, Ekadashi holds immense religious importance as it
marks the day when Lord Vishnu is believed to have appeared as the
"Guruvayurappan."
On this day, a unique tradition called the **Villaku** is
performed. "Villaku" means "lamp" in Malayalam, and it
refers to a special ritual where devotees light a large, ornate oil lamp in the
temple. This lamp, often made of brass, is filled with ghee, and it is believed
that the light from the lamp purifies the temple and blesses the worshippers.
The **Ekadashi Villaku** is performed with much reverence and devotion,
accompanied by chanting and prayers, and is believed to bring spiritual merit
to all those present. The atmosphere on Ekadashi is filled with a serene yet
electrifying devotion as the temple is illuminated by the flickering light of
hundreds of lamps, symbolizing the removal of darkness and the triumph of good
over evil.
Chembai Music
Festival
In addition to the religious rituals, Guruvayur is also
renowned for its contribution to the cultural and musical heritage of Kerala,
and the Chembai Music Festival is one of the most celebrated cultural events
held at the Guruvayur Temple. Named after the legendary Carnatic musician
Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavatar, a native of Kerala, the festival is a tribute
to his contributions to South Indian classical music and his deep association
with the temple.
Held annually in November -
December, the Chembai Music Festival attracts renowned Carnatic
musicians from across India. The event spans several days, with performances
held within the temple premises and in other venues around Guruvayur. The
festival features soulful renditions of classical ragas, bhajans, and kritis,
all dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavatar's influence on the
temple’s musical tradition is profound, as he is credited with popularizing
classical music in the region and associating it with temple worship. During
the festival, both established and upcoming artists perform, keeping the spirit
of traditional music alive.
The festival is not just a celebration of music but also an
occasion for spiritual enrichment. The melodies sung during the festival
resonate with the temple’s atmosphere, creating an experience that is both
divinely spiritual and artistically enriching. Devotees and music enthusiasts
alike flock to Guruvayur to witness these performances, which offer a perfect
blend of classical music and devotional fervor.
Conclusion
Both Ekadashi Villaku and the Chembai Music Festival are integral
parts of the vibrant cultural and religious fabric of Guruvayur. The Ekadashi
Villaku connects devotees with divine blessings through its illuminating
ritual, while the Chembai Music Festival honors the legacy of one of Kerala’s
musical icons, continuing to inspire future generations. Together, these events
offer a beautiful convergence of faith, music, and tradition, making Guruvayur
a place where spirituality and culture thrive hand in hand.
For those making this sacred journey to have this divine experience, Devaragam, conveniently located just 500 meters from Guruvayur Temple and the private bus stand, and about 300 meters from Guruvayur Railway Station, offers contemporary luxury and all the amenities that modern travelers expect.
