Sri Navamukunda Perumal Temple

Sri Navamukunda Perumal Temple at Thirunavaya is a historically significant Divya Desam on the banks of the sacred Bharathapuzha (Nila River) in Malappuram district, praised by Nammalvar in the Thiruvaimozhi. The deity's name "Navamukunda" means "the Ever-New Liberator" — Nava (new, fresh) and Mukunda (the granter of liberation, moksha) — signifying the Lord who offers the ever-fresh experience of divine freedom. Thirunavaya was the venue of the legendary Mamankam festival, a grand assembly held every twelve years that drew kings, scholars, and warriors from across Kerala — making it one of the most historically prominent sites in Malai Nadu. The temple is uniquely situated with three separate shrines for Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva along the riverbank, reflecting the inclusive spiritual landscape of Kerala. Kulasekhara Azhwar, as the Chera king, would have presided over the spiritual traditions of this region, and the temple's riverside rituals and annual float festival continue to draw thousands of devotees.