# Kerala temple’s unique Onam tradition includes feeding monkeys 2026-08-27T05:27:36+00:00 | Governance | Indian Opinion Desk Corroboration: 1 independent outlet The Dharma Sastha Temple in Sasthamkotta, Kerala, continues its centuries-old Onam tradition of offering a feast to local monkeys, serving payasam and other dishes on banana leaves. The temple's association with monkeys dates back to local lore linking them to Lord Rama's time. Devotees believe the monkeys are sacred and their presence at the temple brings blessings. The practice is unique to this temple and is carried out with elaborate preparations each year during the Onam festival. Temple authorities oversee the ritual, ensuring the monkeys are fed without disturbance. The tradition remains a key part of Onam celebrations at Sasthamkotta. ## Indian Opinion Analysis Onam traditions vary across Kerala's temples, but few involve an active role for wildlife. The Dharma Sastha temple's practice appears rooted in the local legend linking monkeys to Lord Rama's visit, a narrative specific to Sasthamkotta village. The temple is a prominent shrine in Kollam district, and such enduring customs highlight how regional folklore shapes ritual beyond standard festival observances. Visitors will see the practice continue this Onam season. ## Coverage - ndtv.com leads with unique tradition, neutral report with local colour This brief was synthesised by AI from the source linked above. Tags: Dharma Sastha Temple, Kerala, Onam, Sasthamkotta Canonical: https://indianopinion.org/kerala-temples-unique-onam-tradition-includes-feeding-monkeys/ License: Summary and commentary (c) Indian Opinion, reusable with attribution. Facts belong to the linked sources. Cite: https://indianopinion.org/kerala-temples-unique-onam-tradition-includes-feeding-monkeys/#story-in-brief Review state: restored archive article, accurate at time of publication, not offered to search indexes. How this brief was made: an AI model read the report linked above and wrote this summary and analysis, which were published automatically. Published briefs are sampled every hour by an automated quality check; the editor verifies its findings and approves corrections, and corrected briefs carry a dated correction line. We do no original reporting. Methodology: https://indianopinion.org/ai-use-policy/