Kerala village celebrates beloved tusker's 50th birthday with special ‘Thiruvathira’

Velinalloor: The whole village of Velinalloor came together to celebrate the 50th birthday of their cherished jumbo ‘Manikandan’ with a special ‘Thiruvathirakali’ (a traditional dance form in Kerala performed by women in groups, usually in a circle). 

Known as 'Velinalloor Manikandan’, the elephant that responds to his name, was honoured with a traditional Thiruvathira performance organised by the Velinalloor Sree Ramaswamy Temple Advisory Committee.

Manikandan, who arrived in Velinalloor at the age of 12, has become a beloved figure in the community. The locals celebrated his special day with offerings of fruits, jaggery and watermelon. His popularity extends beyond Velinalloor, having become a celebrated presence at festivals throughout south Kerala. At many temples, including Sabarimala, Vaikom, Chengannur and Kottarakkara, under the Travancore Devaswom Board, Manikandan carries the deity's decorated replica (thidambu).

The idea for the Thiruvathira performance was proposed by V Harikumar, secretary of the temple advisory committee. This event was designed to honour Manikandan's 50 years of service, reflecting his age, size and strength.

The Thiruvathira began with the song "Anchukarakkadhipanam Sri Ramachandran vazhum Thiru Velinalloorile Sree Manikandan," (“Manikandan, the great tusker from divine Velinalloor, the abode of Lord Sree Ram”) celebrating Manikandan's life and contributions.