Thrissur: The Thrissur Pooram festival was declared open on Saturday with the ceremonial opening of the Thekke Gopura Nada (southern gate) of Vadakkunnathan Temple by elephant Ernakulam Sivakumar, which carried the idol of Naithilakkavu Bhagavathy.
Devotees Brave Heat for Opening Ceremony
Pooram enthusiasts assembled at Thekkinkadu Maidan, enduring the scorching sun, as Sivakumar emerged through the southern gate. The procession proceeded to the west gate, where temple staff blew conch shells, formally heralding the arrival of the 32-hour-long Pooram festivities commencing Sunday morning.
Chamayakazhcha and Schedule Changes
The Chamayakazhcha, an exhibition of elephant accoutrements, for the Thiruvambady side also began on Saturday. Originally scheduled for Friday, it was postponed as a mark of respect to the victims of the Mundathikode fireworks tragedy. The Paramekkavu side had held their Chamayakazhcha on Friday as planned.
Attendance Dip Due to Tragedy and Heat
Organisers noted a decline in the number of enthusiasts at the Pooram Vilambaram ritual this year, apparently influenced by the Mundathikode tragedy. Hot weather conditions may have also contributed to the lower turnout, they said.
Fireworks Dropped, Kudamattam Scaled Down
In the wake of the tragedy, organisers have decided to cancel the fireworks display that traditionally culminates the Pooram. The Kudamattam ceremony, involving the exchange of parasols atop elephants, has also been scaled down.
Sunday's Schedule and Key Events
Sunday's Pooram celebrations will commence in the morning with the procession from Kanimangalam Sastha temple to Vadakkunnathan Temple. Processions from the remaining eight participating temples will follow. Notable events such as Ilanjithara Melam and Madathil Varavu will be conducted in traditional styles.
Security and Health Measures
Elaborate security arrangements have been made for the smooth conduct of the Pooram, with approximately 4,000 police personnel deployed. Health authorities have also implemented measures to mitigate the impact of the hot weather conditions on attendees.
