Conserving Kariyathan Temple, an abode of ancient inclusivity
Following the immense success of the Karnikara Mandapam project, which received a UNESCO Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation in 2023, ARPO was delighted to facilitate the restoration of the Kariathan Meenupara Temple. Commissioned and fully funded by Mr Vivek Sahni, Chairman, Kama Ayurveda, it’s executed by Ezha conservation architects group.
Watch the video on different stages of conservation
The temple is a fascinating site where a thousand years of history and cultural heritage are vividly present. The temple's deity, an ancient forest god depicted as a hunter and guardian, reflects a form of worship that may date back to prehistoric times, when hunting was a the primary mode of livelihood there. Even today, key temple rituals involve the Karimpalar tribal group, who perform as associates with the Theyyam performer from the Dalit Munnoottan community. The Malayar community, also Dalit, provides percussion during the annual Thirayattam festival. Culturally, this temple has historically been accessible to all communities—tribal to Dalit to Brahmin—and thus embodies true inclusivity.
The restoration project has now been successfully completed, further cementing our commitment to preserving architectural heritage.
