Located in Amaravathy near Fort Kochi, Althara Bhagavathy Temple belongs to the Konkani-speaking Vaishya-Vaniya community. Historical records suggest that during the 16th century, when the Portuguese invaded Goa and enforced mass conversions, many Konkani-speaking families sought refuge in Kochi. The King of Kochi welcomed them, granting land for settlement in Fort Kochi and Mattancherry. The temple, believed to be over 400 years old, is considered the Keezhedam (subordinate) temple of the Cochin Thirumala Devaswom, a prominent socio-religious institution. The main deity, Goddess Durga, is worshipped in her fierce form as Mahishasura Mardhini depicted in the act of slaying the demon Mahishasura. This form of the Goddess is rarely more seen in Kerala temples. According to legend, the temple was built by a sailor who encountered a violent storm at sea. In a desperate plea for survival, he vowed to build a temple if he safely reached the shore. Believing that the Goddess saved him, he fulfilled his promise by constructing this sacred shrine. Though the temple is maintained by the Konkani-speaking community, it is open to all Hindus. Special poojas and grand celebrations take place during Navaratri, with the most significant event being the 8-day annual festival held in the Malayalam month of Kumbham (February–March). A unique highlight of the festival is Annakkali, a traditional procession and dance performed on the 6th and 7th days. Gigantic figures of peacocks, Goddess Durga (Kali), Bheeman, and Darikan are carried around the temple. Accompanied by traditional music, these figures are either carried by men or mounted on wheeled platforms, creating a mesmerizing spectacle for devotees and visitors.