Thrissur: The spectacles of Thrissur pooram commenced with Panchavadyam, a percussion event of five instruments, on Sunday. The famed tusker Thechikottkavu Ramachandran carried ‘thidambu’ during the ceremonial procession ‘Madathil Varavu’ to the Vadakkunnathan temple. 

Following the Chempada Melam and Ilanjithara Melam, the Paramekkavu and Thiruvambadi groups will enter the Vadakkunnathan temple via the western gate and come out through Thekkottirakam (southern gate) to assemble face to face in front of the temple.

People will throng in between the two groups arrayed at distant places to enjoy the astounding ‘Kudamattam’ ceremony, in which colourful umbrellas will be displayed on caparisoned elephants. 

The most-awaited event ‘Vedikettu’ (fireworks) will be held in the wee hours of Monday.   

The Pooram Vilambaram (festival proclamation) held on Saturday at Nilapadu Thara of the temple marked the formal beginning of Thrissur pooram. The grand procession from Neythalakkavu temple and the following rituals were performed under the renowned tusker Ernakulam Sivakumar.