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Discover the kaleidoscopic colours of Kerala's lively festivals ranging from Onam, Vishu, Thrissur Pooram, and Attukal Pongala by embarking on a voyage through Kerala's rich traditions.
The enchanting state of Kerala is renowned for its cultural heritage. This land of lush greenery, backwaters, and serene beaches comes alive with exuberant celebrations during various festivals throughout the year. From the grand harvest festival of Onam to the auspicious Malayalam New Year called Vishu; the electrifying Thrissur Pooram and the prayerful Attukal pongala; each festival offers a glimpse into the diverse traditions, unity, and communal harmony of this beautiful region. Join us as we deep-dive into Kerala's most iconic festivals understanding the customs, rituals, and the joyous spirit that make them truly unique.
Onam is arguably the most significant festival celebrated in Kerala. This ten-day long harvest festival is held annually in the Malayalam month of Chingam (August/September). The festival commemorates the mythical return of King Mahabali, who is believed to have ruled Kerala during a golden age of equality and prosperity. The festivities of Onam are characterised by colourful proceedings and jovial cultural events. Pookkalam, an intricate arrrangement of colourful flowers laid out in beautiful patterns, typically in a courtyard, sets the tone for the festival. Onam Sadya, the traditional feast served on banana leaves, is another highlight of Onam. The elaborate meal includes a variety of dishes such as the avial, thoran, pulissery, and achaar among others, and it is customary for families to prepare and share this meal with friends and neighbours. Performances of Thiruvathira Kali, Kaikottikali, and Pulikali, add further charm to the celebrations. Traditional games, music performances, and cultural shows are also part of Onam, creating a joyous atmosphere across the state. Onam is a time when Malayalees comes together to celebrate their heritage and culture, regardless of religious or cultural differences. It showcases the unity and diversity of Kerala.
Vishu is an auspicious festival celebrated in the Malayalam month of Medam (April), marked by a sense of renewal, prosperity, and hope for the new year. The festival's name "Vishu" is derived from the Malayalam word "Vishu," which means equal, denoting the equal length of day and night (vernal equinox), on the day it is celebrated. The day begins with a ceremonial arrangement called "Vishukkani," which is set up the night before Vishu. Fresh flowers, grains, fruits, gold ornaments, and a lit lamp, are arranged in the prayer room. It is believed that viewing the Vishukkani first on Vishu morning brings good luck for the entire year. Another essential aspect of Vishu celebrations is the traditional "Vishu Kaineettam", where elders give money or gifts to younger family members as a gesture of love. It is a joyous occasion for children as they eagerly receive these tokens of affection. "Vishu Sadya", a sumptuous feast served on a banana leaf, is had in the afternoon. Fireworks light up the sky during the Vishu evening, adding to the festive ambience. Vishu holds immense cultural and religious significance, and it is a time when families come together to celebrate and cherish their bond. The festival is primarily celebrated in Hindu households, while people of all faiths and communities are actively encouraged to join in the festive celebrations – characteristic of Kerala's pluralism and syncreticism.
Thrissur Pooram is a spectacular temple festival celebrated in the city of Thrissur with great pomp and glamour. This grand festival takes place in the Malayalam month of Medam (April or May) at the Vadakkunnathan Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The festivities of Thrissur Pooram are marked by a magnificent procession of caparisoned elephants, known as the "Kudamattam." In this breathtaking display, various temples in the region send their elephants to participate in the procession. The elephants are adorned with ornate regalia, and slowly proceed while traditional percussion instruments are played in the background. The iconic "Panchavadyam" and "Melam" are two such performances where hundreds of skilled musicians come together to create a symphony using drums and cymbals, thus electrifying the festive air. Thrissur Pooram's procession is succeeded by the firework display known as "Vedikettu." Renowned pyrotechnicians compete to create flamboyant fireworks, rendering the Thrissur sky a veritable bedlam of sparkling gold and shimmering silver that erupt out of brillant bursts of flames. Thrissur Pooram is significant in not only being a religious festival but also a marker of social change. The festival transcends caste and religious boundaries, uniting people in a celebration of community and shared heritage. The festival was organised for the first time by the Raja of Cochin in the late 18th century as a competitive event between two temple groups.
Attukal Pongala is a revered festival held at Attukal Bhagavathy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Millions of women gather with earthen pots to prepare the pongala offering (sweetened rice pudding), dedicating prayers to Goddess Attukalamma for prosperity. The ritual is held annually in February-March and holds a Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of women for a religious activity. The festival showcases Kerala's cultural heritage, religiosity, and community spirit, leaving the visitors both spiritually and physically fulfilled. The traditional pongala offering is made using rice, jaggery, coconut, and ghee. The preparation is done on makeshift stoves placed along the streets surrounding the temple. As the sun rises, the chief priest lights the main hearth, symbolising the commencement of the sacred ritual. The atmosphere is charged with spiritual energy as hymns and chants fill the air. In a beautiful display of devotion and unity, the women offer their prayers for the well-being and longevity of their families.
In the embrace of Kerala's festivals – Onam, Vishu, Thrissur Pooram, and Attukal Pongala – lies a vivid expression of the state's soul. Through centuries-old customs and rituals, these celebrations showcase the profound spiritual beliefs, cultural unity, and unwavering devotion of its people. Whether it's the grandeur of Thrissur Pooram's elephant pageantry or the fervent prayers during Attukal Pongala, each festival leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of both locals and visitors. As the vibrant colors, melodious music, and joyous camaraderie fill the air, it becomes evident that these festivals are more than mere events; they are a celebration of Kerala's identity, resilience, and timeless heritage.
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