Famous temples - Oachira temple

Centuries ago, there were no temples. There were KAVUs (nothing but trees and bushes enmasse ) and poeple across Kerala used to visit and worship such KAVUs. Later, Brahmins to prove that they are supreme built temples, eliminating the KAVUs. However, few Kavus survived in the land. Oaachira is one of the survived Kavu, keeping th traditions and hence it is historically important. Even now, this is spread over 36 Acres of Land and tress and thousands worship at the temple which is the abode of "PARAM BRAHMAM". The spiritual people interpreted the name based on the extreme power. OHM is the representation of PARAM BRAHMAM - the god of all Gods. "Chira" means the piece of land. The combination of two Words OHM and CHIRA formed the name OHMCHIRA which was later called OACHIRA, means the land of PARAM BRAHMAM. It is also called as DHAKSHINA KASI. It is on the border of Kollam and Alapuzha Districts, next to the NatiOnal Highways 47.

During December - January, every year Oachira Vrishchikam Festival is celebrated. During June, Oachirakkali is performed as a famous ritual. This ritual is mock fighting in muddy water by traditional martial arts experts/soldiers mainly of Kayamkulam Raja.Till 20th Century, it is said, 108 kalaries were there in 52 karas. Soldiers of above Karas got together at Oachira during the month of Mithuna Month (Malayalam month) and they used to do this Oachirakkali. During the reign of Kayamkulam Rajah, blessed by the near Nambiathiris (High order Nambuthiris)having the knowledge of "Dhanurveda" (Science of Arms). They were well versed in "Smrithy Sasthras". "Erupethettu Onam" is another festival involving Cattles. Eduppu Kalas - gigantic bull shaped structures are pulled on giant wheels to the Oachira temples from the places where such structures are made. There are around 50 such structures. This is one of the biggest festivals in Onattukara - which is an area of few square miles.

Oachira temple is unique in its existance. It does not have covered structures a la temples. Devotees worship the Param Brahmas under neatly covered trees. The Param Brahmas is the original formless powerwho manifests as the three Supreme Forms of God viz. Brahma, Vishnu and Siva.