The sacred grounds of Kottankulangara, a stone's throw from Chavara on the outskirts of Kollam city, bear witness to a unique celebration – the Chamayavilakku festival. Every year, the festival unfolded its mystical aura on the 24th and 25th of March, drawing thousands to partake in a tradition that transcends time and defies societal norms.

The festival's roots delve into folklore, with one popular tale recounting the innocence of a group of boys herding cows. Their playful enactment of shy girls, adorned with flowers and offering a coconut dish called kottan to a stone, birthed a divine connection. This led to the construction of a temple without an outer wall, where men, dressed as women, began offering prayers to the deity..

Devotees, not only from the local region but from around the world, flock to Kottankulangara seeking the blessings of the Devi. Holding the traditional chamayavilakku lamp, they eagerly await the procession of the Devi, eager to receive her divine gaze. The uniqueness of this temple lies in the lamp itself—a wooden rod mounted with five lights, lit from a main lamp within the temple..

Men, spanning all ages and backgrounds, transform into the feminine form to fulfill vows and express gratitude for the favors granted by the Devi. Their motivations vary, from seeking promotions and good jobs to longing for a child or finding love. Groups from minor temples in the vicinity join the pilgrimage, creating a vibrant tapestry of devotion..

While the festival exudes an atmosphere of faith, it also grapples with elements seeking to exploit the occasion for amusement. Some participants indulge in light-hearted displays, mimicking filmi dances, while others, less respectful, resort to eve-teasing, tarnishing the sanctity of the event. These actions, though a minority, cast a shadow on the festival's reputation..

In the age of the internet, the Chamayavilakku festival has gained recognition among crossdressers, earning the affectionate moniker "CD Festival of Kollam." While acknowledging the desire of crossdressers to express themselves openly, it is imperative that they approach the festival with sincerity, recognizing its spiritual significance. The temple, dedicated to the Devi, holds the power to fulfill genuine desires if approached with faith..

Amidst the spiritual fervor, the festival also accommodates those seeking to partake in the transformative experience of cross-dressing. Makeup and ladies' dresses are readily available at the festival site, fostering an environment of inclusivity..

Having personally experienced the Chamayavilakku festival, I proudly attest that the Devi has never disappointed my faith. The festival stands as a testament to the convergence of diverse identities, where tradition and modernity coexist, and where faith transcends societal boundaries. May the Chamayavilakku festival continue to illuminate the path of devotion and acceptance for generations to come..

A FEW RULES FOR THE FESTIVAL TO BE NOTED

Amidst the vibrant tapestry of the Chamayavilakku Festival at Kottankulangara, where tradition intertwines with modernity, it becomes imperative to observe a set of guidelines that accentuates the sanctity of the event. As the sacred grounds beckon, echoing with prayers and the rustle of sarees, a few rules stand as pillars, guiding participants on their spiritual journey..

1. Embark with Faith:

At the heart of the Chamayavilakku Festival lies a profound sense of faith and devotion. It is crucial that each participant approaches the temple with a sincere and earnest belief in the divine. This sacred space should not be treated as a mere venue for amusement; rather, it should be embraced as a sanctuary for spiritual connection and self-discovery..

2. Adherence to Temple Rules:

Respect for tradition is paramount. Festival-goers must strictly adhere to the rules and practices set forth by the temple authorities and the festival organizers. These guidelines are not mere formalities; they are the threads that weave the fabric of the sacred space. By following these instructions, participants contribute to the harmonious and reverential atmosphere of the festival..

3. Modesty in Attire:

As participants adorn themselves in the myriad hues of Indian dresses, modesty should be the guiding principle. The festival is a celebration of diverse identities and expressions, but it is equally important to manifest these expressions with dignity. Revealing clothes and indecent exposure are discouraged, ensuring that the aesthetic of the festival remains rooted in cultural respect and spiritual grace..

4. Companionship is Key:

The journey into the festival is best undertaken with companionship. Participants are encouraged not to go alone but to have someone alongside them. Whether a friend, family member, or fellow devotee, having a companion provides support and solidarity. In the shared experience, the festival becomes a communal celebration, fostering connections that transcend the boundaries of individual journeys..

5. Combatting Eve-Teasing:

In the sacred precincts of the Chamayavilakku Festival, the spirit of respect and devotion should prevail. Participants are urged not to encourage or engage in eve-teasing, a practice that undermines the sanctity of the event. By fostering an environment of mutual respect, festival-goers contribute to a harmonious gathering where all can partake in the spiritual essence without fear or discomfort..

These rules, though concise, form the bedrock of a festival that thrives on the principles of spirituality, inclusivity, and respect. The Chamayavilakku Festival is not just a cultural spectacle but a pilgrimage of the soul, where individuals from diverse backgrounds converge to celebrate the beauty of faith, identity, and communal spirit. As participants don the attire of devotion, let these rules serve as a compass, guiding each step with reverence, ensuring that the festival continues to illuminate the path of devotion for generations to come..

P.S: The above-stated information is my experience and purely my opinion. I have been to the Chamayavilakku festival a couple of times and this blog was written based on the experiences I had, the knowledge I gained, and the people I observed around me. If you have any concerns or comments regarding this post you can write to me on my email [email protected] or DM me on instagram handle @megha4friends