The iconic 36-hour-long Thrissur Pooram festival commenced in full splendor at the Sree Vadakkumnathan Temple on May 5, drawing thousands of devotees to Thekkinkadu Maidan in the heart of Kerala’s temple town.
Recognized as the “mother of all Poorams,” the festival began with the ceremonial arrival of Neythalakavilamma, whose majestic entry officially opened the Thekke Gopura Nada, heralding the start of the celebrations. Her arrival also signified the ritual preparation for Kanimangalam Shasta’s early morning entry on Pooram day through the southern gopuram, marking a significant traditional moment.
A total of 10 participating temples from in and around Thrissur send their deities in elaborate processions to the Vadakkumnathan Temple to pay homage to Lord Shiva. Each procession, rich in ritual and symbolism, plays a unique role in the coordinated grandeur of the event.
Celebrated during the Malayalam month of Medam on the day of Pooram, the festival is world-renowned for its majestic elephant parades, vibrant Panchavadyam (traditional percussion ensemble), and dazzling firework displays that light up the skies through the night.
The ceremonial entrance of Kanimangalam Sastha kicks off the Pooram day celebrations, followed in succession by other deities including Panamukkampilly Sathavu, Chembookavu Karthiayani Devi, Karamukku Karthiyani Devi, Choorakkottukavu Durga Devi, Ayyanthole Karthiayani Devi, and Naithalakavu Bhagavathi.
Despite the sweltering summer heat, devotees from across Kerala and beyond continue to flock to Thrissur to witness the festival’s unmatched spiritual energy, visual grandeur, and cultural richness. The fireworks, held in the early morning hours, remain one of the most anticipated highlights, drawing massive crowds year after year.