Thirunavaya is one of the sacred places in Kerala among the 108 divine Vishnu sites across India. It is the oldest and most significant among Kerala’s Vishnu shrines.

The Navayogis (nine sages) traveling across India obtained a special Salagramam (sacred stone) from the Gandaki River with instructions to consecrate it at the most auspicious place. They selected the banks of the Bharathapuzha at Thirunavaya for the installation.

The first installation was done at this site. Later, another Salagramam was similarly found and consecrated here, and eventually, eight such consecrations were done, hidden beneath the earth. Young Karabhajan, reflecting on this, realized that the deity yet to be identified is Mukundan, the giver of liberation, and consecrated it accordingly.

Rituals were established: water from the Bharathapuzha should be used for sacred ablutions, lotus flowers for offerings, lamps for illumination, and milk and rice pudding as food offerings.

It is believed that Sage Jamadagni performed Shraddha rituals for his ancestors here. Even today, devotees arrive at the banks of Bharathapuzha to perform Bali rites, offering salvation to departed ancestors.

The legend of Gajendra Moksha is closely associated with Thirunavaya, and here Gajendra is revered as Lord Ganapati. Mahalakshmi is the main deity, making this an extraordinary temple.

The Thirunavaya Mukundeshwara temple is on the northern bank of Bharathapuzha, while Brahma’s temple, consecrated by Brihaspati, is on the southern bank. Shiva’s temple is also nearby, forming a sacred triangle, with Rajarajeshwari at its center, overlooking Bharathapuzha.

Thirunavaya is thus a rare and sacred land where exceptional consecrations were performed. During Magha month, the natural rhythm of this holy place changes, and the powerful divine presence manifests. Participating in holy baths (Nila Snanam) and rituals during this time benefits individuals, communities, and the land itself.