Onam sadhya for monkeys! Kerala temple's unique 'vanara sadhya' tradition

Kollam, Kerala: At a temple in Kerala's Sasthamcotta, the spirit of Onam extends beyond human devotees, with the monkeys living around the shrine receiving their own traditional feast every year.

At the Sree Dharma Sastha Temple, a special 'vanara sadhya' is prepared for the temple monkeys on Uthradam and Thiruvonam, the two main days of the festival.

The feast includes rice, dal, pappad, pachadi, avial, pickle and other dishes traditionally served as part of an Onam sadya. The food is served on plantain leaves at the temple premises.

"The special Onam feast is served to the monkeys on Uthradam and Thiruvonam, the two main days of the festival," Abhijith N, who is associated with the temple, told PTI.

One group leaves, another arrives for Vanara sadhya

During the feast organised on Tuesday, Uthradam day and the eve of Thiruvonam, groups of monkeys arrived at the dining area to eat.

Initially, one group came forward, ate its share and left. Soon after, another group arrived. The pattern continued, with different groups taking turns at the feast.

Some monkeys were initially hesitant to approach the food, but gradually moved closer and began eating.

The tradition is believed to have continued for several decades and is closely associated with the faith and customs surrounding the temple.

The Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple is one of Kerala's five ancient Sastha temples.

Who are the 'Ambalakkurangukal'?

The monkeys living around the temple are locally known as 'ambalakkurangukal', or temple monkeys. According to those associated with the shrine, they are considered part of the temple environment and are treated differently from monkeys living outside the premises.

Monkeys that live within the temple area are allowed around the shrine, while those from outside are not permitted to enter the temple premises.

The tradition is not restricted to Onam. Food is also provided to the monkeys on other days, while devotees make offerings to them as part of their visits to the temple.

"There is a special room at the temple where food is served to the monkeys," he said.

Around 40 monkeys currently live in a small forested area adjoining the temple, Abhijith said.