The temple dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy at Kodungalloor is famous for the annual Bharani festival. It is believed to have been a Shiva temple originally, as worship is offered first to Shiva before being offered to Bhagavathy (Goddess). The image of Bhagavathy at the Kodungalloor temple is believed to have been carved out of a jack fruit tree. The face of the image is covered with a mask and decorated with several pieces of jewellery.

During the annual Bharani festival, the Kodungalloor Bhagavathy Temple would become a beehive of activities. Among the proceedings the most spectacular of events is of course the Kaavu Theendal ceremony. This ceremony is noted for the participation of hundreds of sword wielding oracles (locally known as velichappads) both men and women, who are considered by devotees as the medium to communicate with the Goddess.

Blood and belief blend during the Bharani festival at Kodungalloor. This festival takes place during the Malayalam month of Meenam (March / April). The Kaavu Theendal is the major ceremony witnessed by thousands and is also noted for the Therippattu, which is the singing of obscene songs addressed to the temple deity.

Each year, pilgrims and curious visitors come to attend this seven-day annual festival during the Malayalam month of Meenam at the Kodungalloor Bhagavathy Temple. The Kavu Theendal ceremony as part of the annual Bharani festival is held in the presence of Kodungalloor king. During the course of this ceremony, one can witness hundreds of oracles (velichappads) running in a trance around the temple, waving their swords in the air, while the retinue strike the temple rafters with sticks and hurl objects over the roof and on to the inner quadrangle.

Following the festival, the temple would remain closed for a week. Its doors reopen after rituals meant for purification, which are performed in order to clean the stains of Kavu Theendal.

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