Kerala’s Unique Temple Where Dogs Are Worshipped
At Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple in Kerala, dogs are worshipped as divine beings. They are fed first, roam freely and are seen as companions of Lord Muthappan.
Kerala’s Parassinikadavu Sree Muthappan Temple in Kannur is unlike any other temple in India — here, dogs are not only welcome but worshipped as part of the divine. Dedicated to Sree Muthappan, a folk god worshipped mainly in North Kerala, the temple breaks many traditional rules. Muthappan is believed to be a combined form of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu and is always depicted with two dogs — one walking beside him and another following behind. Dogs are seen as his messengers, and feeding them is considered an act of worship.
The temple’s story traces back to a boy found floating in a river, raised by a Brahmin couple, who grew up breaking caste norms, eating fish and meat, drinking toddy, and mingling freely with all. Showing divine powers, he later disappeared, only to reappear before a tribal hunter in Parassinikadavu, accepting roasted fish and toddy as offerings and revealing himself as Muthappan. The shrine built on that spot became the famous temple it is today.
Here, prasadam is unique — roasted fish, puttu, vellappam, payasam, and tender coconut water. The most special ritual is Nayoottu, a feast for dogs made with roasted fish, rice, coconut, and banana. Dogs are fed before humans, and this act is believed to remove bad luck and illness. Every day, the temple also hosts Muthappan Theyyam, a traditional performance where a man dressed as the deity blesses devotees, making the worship personal and direct.
Unlike most temples, Parassinikadavu welcomes everyone — regardless of caste, religion, or lifestyle — including non-Hindus and foreigners. Even during the COVID-19 lockdown, the temple continued feeding stray dogs. It stands as a powerful reminder that compassion for animals is as sacred as devotion to God.
