The Muthuvallur Sree Durga Bhagavathy Temple, situated near Kondotty, has been witnessing the religious camaraderie since 2015 as both the communities have contributed for the renovation.
In a display of communal harmony, the small village of Muthuvallur in Kerala’s Muslim-majority district of Malappuram has captivated attention with its tale of unity surrounding the restoration of a 400-year-old Durga temple.
According to a report by Times of India, the Muthuvallur Sree Durga Bhagavathy Temple, situated near Kondotty, emerges as a beacon of syncretism, with the initial phase of its renovation now concluded. The idol-installation ceremony will be held in May.
Since 2015, Muslims have contributed to the temple’s renovation. Continuing the tradition, shrine officials have solicited the assistance of individuals from all religions for next month’s installation of the new idol, stated the Times of India report.
A brochure will released by temple authorities from May 7-9, marking the idol installation.
According to Times of India, the brochure prominently features images of Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) chief Panakkad Sadikkali Shihab Thangal and the temple’s vedic head, Thekkiniyedathu Tharananellur Padmanabhan Unni Namboodiripad.
Situated within a predominantly Muslim neighborhood and managed by the state-run Malabar Devaswom Board, the temple has enjoyed support from the Muslim community. The community has helped in its renovation including the copper-plating of its dome. Namboodiripad, the temple’s thantri overseeing several temples across Malabar, emphasised the necessity of cooperation and goodwill across religious lines. He acknowledged the overwhelming support received from the Muslim community, including Thangal’s involvement.
Thangal highlighted the natural inclination within their harmonious community to assist one another, even in matters concerning faith and places of worship. He cited his visit to the temple during a fundraising event in 2023. He told Times of India that a generous donation of Rs 1 lakh was made by KP Sulaiman Haji, a member of the state Haj committee. A heartfelt “message of love” from the thantri, addressed to IUML leader PK Kunhalikutty was read out at a temple function on March 30.
