Thrissur, May 6
The acclaimed 36-hour long annual Thrissur Pooram festival that began at the Sree Vadakkumnathan Temple here kicked off a day ago with fast beats of percussion instruments, conches blowing, and devotees thronging the Thekkinkadu Maidan of the temple.
The Pooram, known as the mother of all 'Poorams', officially kicked off on the night of May 5 as Neythalakavilamma made her majestic entry, escorted with devotion and ceremony, opening the Thekke Gopura Nada of the Sree Vadakkumnathan Temple.
Each deity participating in Thrissur Pooram has a distinct role and responsibility. Neythalakavilamma's duty is to prepare the way for Kanimangalam Shasta's early morning arrival on Pooram day, symbolically opening the South Gopuram for his entry.
Processions of deities from the 10 temples in and around Thrissur converge at the Vadukkumnathan Temple to pay obeisance to Lord Shiva.
The festival, which is celebrated on the day of 'Pooram' as per the Malayalam calendar month of Medam, is popularly known for its parading of elephants, Panchavadyam (percussion ensemble), and mega display of fireworks.
The festival attracts huge crowds from across Kerala and other states.
On the Pooram day, the festivities begin with the ceremonial entrance of 'Kanimangalam Sastha through the southern gopuram, and it is followed by the arrival of Panamukkampilly Sathavu, Chembookavu Karthiayani Devi, Karamukku Karthiyani Devi, Choorakkottukavu Durga Devi, Ayyanthole Karthiayani Devi, and Naithalakavu Bhagavathi.
Fireworks conducted as part of the celebration is one of the many attractions of the festivity. Though the Pooram happens in the summer month, people brave the scorching heat to be part of the celebration.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Thrissur Pooram is truly the grandest temple festival in Kerala! The energy when 30 elephants stand together with their golden caparisons is unmatched. I've attended 5 times from Mumbai and each time it gives me goosebumps. The fireworks at 3 AM are worth losing sleep for! 🇮🇳ðŸ™
While the festival is magnificent, I wish the organizers would find more eco-friendly alternatives to fireworks. The smoke causes breathing problems for many elderly attendees and the noise terrifies animals. Tradition is important but we must evolve with times.
The synchronization of Panchavadyam with elephant procession is pure magic! As someone from North India, Kerala's temple festivals have a unique charm. Planning to visit next year - any tips for first-timers? How early should we reach for good views?
My childhood memories of Pooram with my grandparents are priceless. The smell of flowers, the sound of chenda, the taste of payasam from temple stalls - it's a complete sensory experience. So glad the traditions are being preserved with same enthusiasm.
The economic impact of Pooram is massive! Hotels booked months in advance, local businesses thrive, and it puts Thrissur on global tourism map. But authorities must improve crowd management - last year my elderly parents couldn't find drinking water for hours.
The cultural significance of each deity's role fascinates me. Neythalakavilamma preparing way for Kanimangalam Shasta shows how our festivals weave beautiful stories. Wish more schools would teach children about these traditions beyond just holidays.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.