SHASTHA
What is the meaning of shastha?
Ṣaṣṭha (षष्ठ).—a. (-ṣṭhī f.) Sixth, the sixth; षष्ठं तु क्षेत्रजस्यांशं
प्रदद्यात् पैतृकाद्धनात् (ṣaṣṭhaṃ tu kṣetrajasyāṃśaṃ pradadyāt
paitṛkāddhanāt) Manusmṛti 9.164;7.13; षष्ठे भागे (ṣaṣṭhe bhāge) V.2.1; R.17.78;
षष्ठे काले मयाऽऽहारः प्राप्तोऽयमनुजस्तव (ṣaṣṭhe kāle mayā''hāraḥ
prāpto'yamanujastava) Mahābhārata (Bombay) 3.18.16.
Sasthā is a Sanskrit compound consisting of the terms sa and sthā (स्था).
VIZ STABLE
Ṣāṣṭha (षाष्ठ):—mfn. ([from] ṣaṣṭha) the sixth (part), [Pāṇini 5-3, 50]
Śāstā (शास्ता).—The presiding deity (idol installed) in the
Śabarimala temple. Birth. Śiva fell in love with Mahāviṣṇu in his assumed
form as Mohinī and Śāstā was the result of their union. (Kambarāmāyaṇa,
Bālakāṇḍa). This story occurs in the 8th Skandha of Bhāgavata and the Asura
kāṇḍa of Skanda Purāṇa, but only the Skanda Purāṇa refers to the child by
name Śāstā. Other information.
(i) In the battle between Indra and the asura called Śūrapadma the former
deputed Śāstā for the protection of Śacīdevī. (Skanda Purāṇa, Asura Kāṇḍa).
(ii) Śāstā is supposed to have two wives called Purāṇā and Puṣkalā and a
son called Satyaka. (Aṣṭottaraśatakam about Śāstā; also see under
Śabarimala). (See full article at Story of Śāstā from the Puranic
encyclopaedia by Vettam Mani)
1a) Śāstā (शास्ता).—A son of Śiva and Śakti, born of churning of ocean, see
Mahāśāsta.*
1b) One of the eleven Rudras.*
Śāsta (शास्त).—The synonymous name of Śāsta is Ayyappa. Ayyappa
is derived from the word Ārya. The āgamas refer to his name as Ārya only.
The cult of Ayyappa is late in its origin. Hence, sculptures also belong to
later period. The iconographic features are that he is two-handed, he sits
in utkuṭitāsana and his mount is elephant. His weapons depicted are either
the vajrāyudha or the bow made of sugarcane. According to mythology, he is
Hariharaputra i.e. son bom from the union of Śiva and Viṣṇu (in the form of
Mohini).
1) Śasta (शस्त) refers to “recommended” (building location), according to
the Devyāmata (chapter 105).—Accordingly, [while describing the
construction of residence for initiates]—“A residence is recommended
(śasta) to the south of the temple. The residence should be built beyond
the outer wall of the temple. It is to be dwelt in by initiates, their
senses well-subordinated, who have come to the image. Or, in its absence,
[they should dwell in] another pleasant place. [...]”.
2) Śasta (शस्त) refers to “being praised” or “desirable” (as opposed to
Aśasta—‘not being praised’ or ‘undesirable’), according to the Devyāmata
(in the section śalyoddhāra-paṭala or “excavation of extraneous
substances”).—Accordingly, “[...] If a heretic is seen, that brings an
undesirable outcome to householders. If one hears someone hurt, wounded, or
killed, or something broken, then [the officiant] should not divide the
site with cords. If there are persons who are not praised (aśasta),
undesirable (aśasta), or blameworthy, then one should avoid seeing such
persons, hearing [the names of] such persons announced, and hearing the
voices of such persons. [...]”.
Sasta is one of the protective deities in Kerala and hence Sasta
or Bhutanatha is deemed to be one of the oldest concepts of divinity in
Kerala. Sasta is worshipped in different forms like Ayyappa, Balarupa,
Patnisameta (Grhastasrami), and Brahmachari. The Musikavamsamahakavyam is
held to be the first literary work where there is reference to Ayyappa.
Virtually every Tantric text provides elaborate Pujavidhis on Sasta, but
none of them refers to Ayyappa. There are no Pujavidhis for Ayyappa.
However, there is an aspect of Sasta called Revantamurti, whose Pujavidhis
are given. There is in Mantrapada a very beautiful, picturesque description
of Sasta, which briefly runs as follows: Armed with weapons in four hands,
robed in blue, holding on the left side consort Prabha, who holds
Utpalapuspa in her arms and eight-year-old son, Satyaka, on the right and
with embellishments and adornments presides Sasta. 171 Subsequently in
Kriyapada, while dealing with Vigrahavarnana, there is detailed and
beautiful description of the specifications for Sastavigraha in
Kanistadasatala category as well as for Prabhadevi in Navatala measurement.
n the Śiva Purāṇa, it is stated that Lord Śiva was born of
Kaśyapa and Surabhi assuming eleven forms. The names of the eleven Rudras
are—
Kapālin,
Piṅgala,
Bhīma,
Virūpākṣa,
Vilohita,
6 Śāsta,
Ajapāt,
Ahirbudhnya,
Śambhu,
Caṇḍa and
Bhava.
THUS THE SIXTH PART OF RUDRA IS SHASTHA WHICH LATER BECAME
AFTER SERA DYNASTY AS AYYAPPAN PANDALAM ETC. THE CONFUSION HENCE AROSE
WRT THE ERA OF SHASTHA.
K RAJARAM IRS 3725
On Thu, 3 Jul 2025 at 10:17, 'gopala krishnan' via KeralaIyers <
[email protected]> wrote:
> Sirs,
>
> At one time there were 100 elephants deployed in Aarattupuzha pooram. But
> in the recent poorams only 23 elephants of 11 Bhagavathis and 12 Bhagavan's
> are deployed as per a latest video about the temple.
>
> Gopalakrishnan
>
> On Thursday 3 July, 2025 at 07:31:38 am IST, venkat raman <
> [email protected]> wrote:
>
>
> Namaste. Peruvanam[ Cherpu], Oorakam[ Amma thiruvadi] and Triprayar are
> also part of Arattupuzha Pooram, the oldest temple festival in the world.
> It has the largest number elephants than any other pooram festival.
> Ammathiruvadi temple is an ancient one.
> Venkataraman
>
> On Wed, 2 Jul 2025 at 21:01, 'gopala krishnan' via KeralaIyers <
> [email protected]> wrote:
>
> ARATTUPUZHA SREE SASTHA TEMPLE, THRISSUR DISTRICT- KERALA -COMPILED
>
> Dear friends,
>
> Today my posting is about the famous Arattupuzha sastha temple in the
> Trichur District of Kerala. It is a unique Hindu temple dedicated to Sage
> Vasishta. Arattupuzha Sree Sastha Temple is administered by Cochin Devaswom
> Board.
>
> Most members may be knowing about the famous Arattupuzha pooram. *In a
> year certain temples could not participate in Arattupuzha pooram, and later
> king of Cochin Sakthan Tampuran started Trichur pooram with those temples*.
> It appears they were not permitted to participate in the next pooram at
> Arattupuzha. *In this temple only one deity -Dharma Sastha. No upa
> Devathas.*
>
> Hope a divine reading .
>
> Gopalakrishnan 2-7-2025.
>
> Introduction
>
> The Arattupuzha Sastha Temple is a Hindu temple located in Arattupuzha,
> Thrissur district, Kerala. It's a significant religious and cultural
> landmark known for its antiquity, vibrant festivals, and architectural
> style. The temple is dedicated to Lord Sastha, and it's believed to be over
> *3000
> years old*. The annual Arattupuzha Pooram festival, one of the oldest and
> most prominent temple festivals in Kerala, is held here. Arattupuzha pooram
> is very famous, conducted every year, many decades well ahead of Trichur
> pooram.
>
> Key Features:
>
> Deity: Lord Ayyappa (Sastha).
>
> Age: Believed to be over 3000 years old.
>
> Location: Arattupuzha, Thrissur district, Kerala.
>
> Festival: Arattupuzha Pooram, a major temple festival.
>
> Significance: Important religious and cultural site, known for its unique
> traditions and processions.
>
> Architectural Style: Traditional Kerala temple architecture.
>
> *Arattupuzha Pooram Festival:*
>
> The festival is a grand celebration featuring caparisoned elephants,
> traditional percussion music, and colourful rituals.
>
> Legend
>
> It is believed that the deity of Arattupuzha temple is the embodiment of
> the divine potential of Guru Vasishta, the Kula guru (Family priest) of
> Raghu vamsha and Master of Srirama and his brothers.
>
> History
>
> According to legends, the antiquity of this temple dates back to 3000
> years. The temple has been the host of the most ancient and well-known *yearly
> Deva mela, a festival when all gods and goddesses assemble at Arattupuzha.*
>
> Arattupuzha Temple boasts a history spanning over 3,000 years, steeped in
> captivating legends surrounding its origins and the deities enshrined
> within. The temple has strong ties to the Chera dynasty, playing a crucial
> role during their reign. Its architecture reflects traditional Kerala
> temple styles, adorned with intricate designs.
>
> Architectural style:
>
> Arattupuzha Temple showcases exquisite architectural details. The layout
> encompasses the sanctum sanctorum (Sreekovil), the Namaskara Mandapam
> (prayer hall), and the serene temple pond. Intricate wooden carvings and
> vibrant murals adorn the walls, exemplifying traditional craftsmanship. The
> construction incorporates materials like timber, stones, and tiles,
> reflecting the artistry of bygone eras.
>
> Deity
>
> Sree Dharam Sastha is the main deity in the temple. It is believed that
> the deity of Arattupuzha temple contains the divine vital force of Guru
> Vasishta, the kulaguru (Family priest) of Raghu vamsha and Master of
> Srirama and his brothers. The deity sits in a serene posture, with an
> "Amrutha Kalasa" in his right hand resting on the right knee.
>
> Poojas
>
> Arattupuzha Temple is an active place of worship, with daily rituals and
> ceremonies dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. The temple is also known for its
> vibrant festivals and religious events that draw devotees from near and
> far. The temple conducts regular poojas (worship ceremonies) and rituals,
> including abhishekam (ritual bathing of the deity), deeparadhana (lamp
> lighting), and special prayers on auspicious days. These rituals provide a
> serene and spiritual experience for devotees.
>
> Daily rituals at Arattupuzha Temple include Usha Pooja (morning prayer),
> Ethruthu Pooja (midday prayer), and Athazha Pooja (evening prayer). Temple
> priests meticulously adhere to these sacred rituals, preserving the
> sanctity of tradition. Offerings such as Vilakku (oil lamps), flowers, and
> prasadam (sacred food) play a central role in the worship.
>
> Sub Deities: No Sub Deities in this temple.
>
> Temple opening timings
>
> 5:00 AM: Nada Thurakkal
>
> 5:15 AM: Nirmalyam, Malar Nivedyam
>
> 6:40 AM: Usha Pooja
>
> 8:00 AM: Pantheeradi Pooja
>
> 9:00 AM: Ucha Pooja
>
> TEMPLE CLOSES AT 10:00 AM
>
> Re-opens at 5 PM and opened till to 8 PM Deeparadhana and athazha
> pooja and after that temple is closed
>
> FestivalsPooram festival-Unique Aspect:Deities from neighbouring temples
> are brought to the Arattupuzha temple, creating a divine gathering.
>
> Ceremonial Procession: Deities are carried in ceremonial processions to
> the temple and later takes dip in the river. (Arattu)
>
> Popularity: The festival attracts a large number of devotees and
> spectators from across Kerala and beyond.
>
> Timing: The festival typically takes place in April or May.
>
> In essence, the Arattupuzha Sastha Temple is a place of deep religious and
> cultural significance, with its ancient history, vibrant Pooram festival,
> and unique traditions drawing visitors from far and wide. According to
> local beliefs, during the festival, Lord Sastha , the presiding deity at
> the Sree Sastha Temple, is visited by gods and goddesses from the
> neighbouring villages. Most important Triprayar Lord Vishnu(Sri Rama
> incarnation)
>
> Arattupuzha Pooram, often referred to as Devamela or the 'Mother of all
> Poorams', is celebrated with a spectacular display of caparisoned
> elephants, traditional music, and fireworks. This festival is unique
> because it features ceremonial processions involving the images of deities
> from 23 neighbouring temples being carried to Arattupuzha. This grand
> assembly symbolizes a divine conclave where all gods and goddesses gather,
> making it a significant spiritual event.
>
> Key Highlights of the Festival
>
> Sasthavinte Melam: The evening prior to the last day features a majestic
> assembly of caparisoned elephants and a staging of percussion ensembles
> known as Sasthavinte Melam, where over 200 artists perform. This is
> comparable only to the ensemble seen at Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple in
> Tripunithura.
>
> Elephant Processions: The festival is famous for having the largest
> elephant stage entry, with 23 beautifully decorated elephants
> participating. On the 5th day, a significant event involves 'Thidambu' (a
> replica of the deity) carried on a decorated elephant, accompanied by 8
> other elephants and drummers. The final Pooram is conducted with 23
> decorated elephants bearing brightly coloured umbrellas, marking the
> culmination of the festival.
>
> Arattu Ritual: The festival concludes with the Arattu Ritual, which
> involves a holy bath for the deities, signifying the purification and
> rejuvenation of spiritual life.
>
> Arattupuzha Pooram, celebrated for over 1,400 years, stands as one of
> Kerala’s oldest and most magnificent temple festivals. Unique rituals and
> ceremonies unfold, including a breathtaking procession of deities from
> neighbouring temples. With the participation of over 23 elephants, the
> festival becomes a spectacle of immense cultural and spiritual significance
> for the local community.
>
> Another important festival celebrated at the temple is Thiruvathira,
> dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees, especially women, observe fasts, perform
> traditional dances, and offer prayers to seek blessings for marital bliss
> and prosperity.
>
> Some important offerings in the temple
>
> 101 Neeranjanam₹3500 151 Neeranjanam₹5000
>
> 251 Neeranjanam₹9000 501 Neeranjanam₹15000
>
> Ada 1 Koottu₹2040 Ada Half Koottu₹1020
>
> Ada Kaal Koottu ₹510
>
> Chaarth - Kalabham, Chandhanam-₹900
>
> Chuttuvilakku-₹1320 Chuttuvilakku Niramala ₹4000
>
> Easwara seva (Special )₹240 Enna Aadal₹360
>
> Kadum Payasam₹180 Neyvilakku ₹3000
>
> Neyyabhishekam₹600
>
> Niramala A₹1920 Niramala B₹1320 Niramala C₹720
>
> Oru Divasathe Pooja₹900 Palpayasam₹100
>
> Shaneeswara Pooja ₹205 Thiroottu ₹110
>
> Thirumukham Charthal ₹240
>
> Thri Madhuram₹50Thrikaalapooja₹240
>
> Udayaasthamana Pooja₹15600 Visheshaal Pooja₹2280
>
> Address:
>
> Dharma Sastha temple, Arattupuzha, Urakam P O, Trichur (Dt), Kerala
> 680562.Phone: 094963 46565
>
> Administration
>
> The temple attained a privileged position in the Cochin Devaswom, when Sri
> Elamanna Krishna Menon was the Devaswom Commissioner. The Cochin Devaswom
> Board owns the temple and at the advice of the Board Arattupuzha Kshethra
> Upadeshaka Samithi(Temple welfare Committee) was formed, which acts for the
> welfare of the temple with the co-operation of the board.
>
> Accessibility and Accommodation
>
> Arattupuzha Temple is well-connected by road and is easily accessible from
> major towns and cities in Kerala. There are several accommodation
> options available in and around Thrissur, ranging from budget lodgings to
> mid-range hotels and heritage homestays.
>
> Visitor Information
>
> Visitors are expected to follow traditional temple etiquette, including
> dressing modestly, removing footwear before entering the temple premises,
> and maintaining a respectful demeanour. It is advisable to follow the
> guidance of temple authorities and priests regarding rituals and practices.
>
> How To Reach
>
> By Bus-Thrissur KSRTC Bus Stand, about 15 km away. The road that leads to
> this temple is 2km towards east from Thevar Road Bus Stop in Thrissur
> Kodungallur route.
>
> By Flight-Cochin International Airport, about 42 km away
>
> By Train-Thrissur Railway Station, about 14 km Arattupuzha Sree Sastha
> Temple
>
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