Festivals
Festivals of Kerala
Kerala, often hailed as ‘God’s Own Country’, is a tapestry of rich traditions, diverse cultures, and vibrant festivities. Nestled along the southwestern coast of India, this verdant state is not only famous for its breathtaking landscapes and backwaters but also for its colorful festivals that resonate with the harmonious blend of history, culture, and spirituality. From the rhythmic beats of traditional drums during Onam to the electrifying performances at the Thrissur Pooram, festivals in Kerala are a captivating spectacle, offering a deep dive into the state’s timeless cultural ethos and leaving both locals and tourists spellbound. Onam, Vishu, Thrissur Pooram, Thiruvathira, Theyyam Festival, Attukal Pongala, Christmas, Makaravilakku Festival, Arattu at Trivandrum, Ambalapuzha Arattu, Aranmula Uthrattathi, Adoor Gajamela are some of the most popular festivals in Kerala.
Onam
Onam is the most celebrated festival in Kerala, marking the homecoming of the legendary King Mahabali. It’s a ten-day event that showcases Kerala’s rich culture and heritage, replete with intricate flower arrangements, sumptuous feasts, and traditional boat races. The festivities culminate in Thiruvonam, the most important day, which celebrates the mythical king’s annual visit to see his subjects.
Vishu
Vishu marks the Malayalam New Year and is a significant festival celebrated with zeal in Kerala. The day starts with “Vishu Kani,” where people view a ceremonial arrangement of auspicious items and seasonal fruits as the first thing in the morning. This tradition is believed to bring prosperity and good luck for the coming year.
Thrissur Pooram
It is held at the Vadakkunnathan (Shiva) Temple in Thrissur every year on the Pooram day—the day when the moon rises with the Pooram star in the Malayalam Calendar month of Medam. It is the largest and most famous of all poorams in India.
Thiruvathira
Thiruvathira, also known as Thiruvathirai or Arudra Darshan, is a unique festival of Kerala celebrated by Hindu women. It commemorates the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva, symbolizing the eternal cycle of creation and destruction. On this day, women observe fasting, perform traditional dances, and partake in various rituals praying for marital bliss and the well-being of their spouses.
Theyyam Festival
Theyyam is a traditional ritualistic dance form native to Kerala that symbolizes the age-old customs, traditions, and beliefs of the region. Performed predominantly in the northern districts, Theyyam artists embody various deities and deliver performances that are a blend of dance, music, and passionate devotion.
Attukal Pongala
This is the earliest Pongala festival in Kerala. The festival is marked as the largest annual gathering of women by the Guinness World Records. The ceremony was set up in Guinness Book of World Records on February 23, 1997, when 1.5 million women participated in Pongala.
Christmas
In the state of Kerala, where Christians account for over a quarter of the population, Christmas holds a strong position. With festivities ranging from shopping and tree decorations to carols and feast, Christmas is definitely one of the most celebrated festivals in Kerala. The festival marks the birth of Jesus Christ.
Makaravilakku
This Kerala traditional festival is celebrated for a whole week and occurs on the famous Hindu festival, Makar Sankranti. On this day, people of Kerala worship Lord Ayyappa’s idol. The whole program is organized at the Ayyappa Temple located in Sabarimala.
Arattu at Trivandrum
At Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Trivandrum, the Arattu of Lord Padmanabhan is celebrated every year and people from all over the state attend this festival. Arattu means holy bath and on this festival, the priest of the temple takes a bath in the river while holding the idol of Lord Padmanabhan. The Travancore royal family organizes this festival and it is one of the best festivals in Kerala that you must attend on your vacay.
Ambalapuzha Arattu
Ambalapuzha Arattu is a distinguished religious festival held at the Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple in Kerala. It is famed for the ceremonial procession of the deity, Lord Krishna, accompanied by traditional music, to the nearby Pampa River for a holy bath. This festival is a vibrant blend of spirituality and cultural artistry, drawing devotees and tourists alike.
Aranmula Uthrattathi
Aranmula Uthrattathi is a renowned water carnival held in Aranmula, Kerala, which celebrates the day Lord Krishna crossed the river Pampa. The highlight of the festival is the grand procession of ornately decorated snake boats, known as “Palliyodams,” on the Pampa River. Accompanied by traditional music and Vanchipattu (boat songs), the boat race is a spectacle of vibrant colors, fervor, and cultural heritage.
Adoor Gajamela
Adoor Gajamela is a vibrant elephant procession held at the Parthasarathy Temple in Adoor, Kerala. Celebrated as part of the ten-day annual festival at the temple, it showcases richly adorned elephants marching to the rhythm of traditional music. The festival draws a large number of spectators and is a significant representation of Kerala’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.