Thrissur Pooram, Festival par excellence !
Kerala, the South Indian state, in spite of its tiny frame is a land of countless wonders and deep-rooted cultural heritage. It is also the land of the biggest gathering of people and elephants the incomparable 'Thrissur Pooram', a cultural extravaganza par excellence, which takes place in Kerala's Thrissur town.
In local language (Malayalam), 'Pooram' means 'festival' the most important occasion in temples as well as churches, that occurs usually once in a year. But even the word 'festival' may fall short to describe the Pooram at Thrissur. This event is a class apart "a festival of festivals".
The town of Thrissur, located almost in the centre of Kerala state, boasts of many important temples, shrines and cultural institutions… and, is regarded as the 'Cultural Capital of Kerala'. Whatever may be Thrissur's assets, it was this mega-classic festival 'Pooram' that made this town internationally acclaimed.
A visionary venture by the then-ruler of erstwhile Cochin State, Rama Varma alias 'Shakthan Thampuran', Thrissur Pooram is studded with plenty of eye-catchers… such as;
# procession of 40+ decorated (with golden head-dresses) elephants
# colourfully crafted 'kolams' (floral patterns)
# 'panchavadyam' a musical feast by traditional percussion instruments
# lavish fireworks display…. etc., being the highlights.
The 'Pooram' celebrations take place generally from mid-April to mid-May every year. Venue of this auspicious event is the sprawling grounds of Vadakkumnathan Temple, an ageless gigantic shrine situated right at the center of Thrissur town.
On the eve of Pooram, the whole town throbs with excitement. Two groups representing the main geographic divisions of Thrissur region engage in a healthy competition to add up the Pooram's splendors. Two lines of 15 elegantly decorated tuskers, fielded by each group, stand face to face. Between these two lines of elephants stand the team of percussion instruments.
Each time this orchestra reach a crescendo (high point), a new display of brightly colored ceremonial-umbrellas pop up over the elephants the 'Kudamattam' ceremony (changing of umbrellas) delighting the onlookers.
This process goes on till sunset; afterwards the departure of elephants is marked by thrilling fireworks display illuminating the night sky. A visual treat that has no equals.
The Pooram spectacle continues for a marathon 36 hours!
For the people of Thrissur, irrespective of caste and creed, 'Thrissur Pooram' is their most cherished occasion. Apart from the town-folks, people from all over Kerala, neighbouring states, and foreigners come to witness this grand gala show. As it is also a gathering of various merchants from everywhere, Thrissur Pooram grounds offer a variety shopping spree as well.
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