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Elephant festival in Kerala
by Juhan Samuel

     Thrissur (Kerala): Kerala has hoisted the ceremonial flag, known as 'Kodiyettam', to mark the beginning of the 'Thrissur Pooram', the annual elephant festival. The biggest of all festivals in the state, 'Thrissur Pooram' is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The festival commences with the arrival of small elephant processions, which carry their respective deities from various temples in different villages across Thrissur, and culminates at the grounds of Vadakkunnathan Temple. The main temples Paramekkavu and Thiruvambadi hoisted their flags to announce the beginning of the weeklong celebrations to be held in connection with the festival. The festival is also known for the magnificent display of fireworks. "The seven-day long festival will begin from Friday. As a part of the tradition, the priest carries the idol to houses and performs the rituals," said K. Manoharan, President of the Paramekkavu Temple. The final Pooram will be held on April 16 and the famous Sample fire works or Vedikkettu will be held on April 14. Thissur Pooram is one of the biggest festivals in Kerala. No other festival draws such large number of people for a single event. It is believed that King Sakthan, who ruled Cochin in the late 18th century, started the festival. The word "Pooram" literally means a group or a meeting. It is believed that the gods and goddesses meet for a day of celebration, which falls in the month of April-May every year.
-April 11, 2008