51³Ô¹ÏÍø

Worker completing construction work of a shrine at the Sree Kallely Oorali Appooppan Kavu in Kalleli, Pathanamthitta, Kerala, India, on April 05, 2024. The Oorali Appooppan Kavu is an ancient temple located on the banks of the Achankovil River in Kalleli in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, India. The temple, the abode of the supreme power of nature, strictly adheres to centuries' old tradition of the indigenous Dravida-Naga tribes. The forest temple, open 24 hours, is located on the Achankovil-Konni-Sabarimala forest path. Oorali Appooppan is the lord of mountain gods, the protector of 999 mountains. It is believed that Appooppan was a gallant warrior, who ruled over Pandi Nadu (Tamil Nadu) and Kerala. Besides Oorali Appooppan, the presiding deity, Oorali Ammoomma, considered to be Appooppan's mother, could be seen. Opposite to these two main deities is Vadackancherry Valiyachan, believed to be the one who have seen Appooppan. Kaula (kari) Ganapati, a tantric aspect of Ganesha, demigod Kuttichathan, Harinarayana Thampuram, the embodiment of Lord Vishnu, are other sub-deities besides Valiyachan in the temple. (Footage by 51³Ô¹ÏÍø Touch Imaging/NurPhoto via Getty Images)