Rain, rhythm and royal elephants mark grand Thirunakkara Pooram in Kottayam

Kottayam witnessed a mesmerizing celebration of tradition and devotion as the grand Thirunakkara Pooram unfolded at the historic Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple.

Held as part of the annual temple festival, the Pooram turned into a visual and rhythmic spectacle, even as light rain added to the charm of the festivities. The festival flag was hoisted on March 15, marking the beginning of the celebrations.

The Pooram began at around 5 pm on the day of Pallivetta, featuring a magnificent display of caparisoned elephants adorned with traditional ornaments like Nettipattam, decorative umbrellas (Kuda), Alavattam, and Venchamaram.

The eastern side of the temple grounds came alive first, as Vembanad Vasudevan led the procession to the Cheruvaram near the Ganapathi shrine. Soon, the grounds transformed into a vibrant Pooram arena.

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On the eastern side, Ushasree Sankarankutty Devi performed the sacred Thidambu, while on the western side near the Siva Shakti Auditorium, Puthuppally Kesavan Thirunakkarayappan carried out the golden Thidambu. Devotees joined in unison, chanting “Namah Shivaya,” as the atmosphere turned deeply spiritual.

A total of 22 elephants—11 on each side—stood majestically, completing the grandeur of the Pooram.

The highlight of the evening was the electrifying Pandi Melam led by renowned percussionist Kizhakoott Aniyan Marar and his team. The powerful rhythmic performance enthralled the crowd, elevating the festive spirit.

Earlier, the Pooram celebrations were formally inaugurated at a special pandal at Alinchuvattil, where Thantri Thazhaman Madom Kandar Mohanar lit the ceremonial lamp. Minister V.N. Vasavan and MLA Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan addressed the gathering.

The festival will conclude with the procession on Tuesday.