Thrissur: In a sign of protest against new regulations, the pooram festival was conducted at Arattupuzha temple in Thrissur without any elephants.

The ‘Ezhunnallippu’ (elephant parade) event featured 15 nettipattam (Elephant caparison) in place of elephants along with a Panchari melam performance in the temple courtyard. Renowned percussionist Peruvanam Kuttan Marar led the melam.

Temple officials highlighted the rich heritage of the Arattupuzha Pooram, which they pointed out predates even the iconic Thrissur Pooram. They noted that there was a time when 101 elephants would line up for the pooram. The officials added that the event now faces challenges with the introduction of new restrictions.

The temple committee stated that the current restrictions make it nearly impossible to conduct traditional poorams, rituals, and ceremonies, including the Arattupuzha Pooram, in their customary manner.

The Kerala High Court had earlier issued directives regarding the use of elephants in processions, emphasising safety and animal welfare. The High Court observed that there should be a three-metre distance between two elephants and noted that elephant processions are not part of the temple ritual. It emphasised that ensuring public safety is of utmost importance. These guidelines were established following a petition filed by the office bearers of the Tripunithura temple, seeking a relaxation of the norms.

Despite calls for the state government to address the issue and formulate regulations, no action has been taken. As a result, the High Court introduced the norms, stating that they must remain in effect until official government guidelines are issued.