Event Information

This vibrant festival is held in the picturesque villages of Nenmara and Vallangi in Chittur taluk, nestled at the foothills of the Nelliyampathy forest. Known for its vivid colors, dazzling lights, spectacular fireworks, and traditional art forms, the Vela is a captivating experience for all who attend.

The festival takes place after the paddy harvest and is believed to mark the birthday of the presiding deity of the Nellikulangara Bhagavathy Temple. It is celebrated on the 20th day of the Malayalam month of Meenam, which typically falls on the 2nd or 3rd of April. The festivities officially begin with the Kodiyettam (flag hoisting) on the 1st day of Meenam, setting the stage for twenty days of cultural activities, rituals, and celebrations, culminating in the grand Vela festival on the 20th day.

A unique aspect of Nenmara Vallangi Vela is the friendly rivalry between the two villages, Nenmara and Vallangi. Each village has its own temple and they compete to outshine each other in various aspects of the festival. The highlight of the event is the magnificent procession of caparisoned elephants from both villages, which converge at the Nellikulangara Bhagavathy Temple. These elephants, adorned with traditional decorations and parasols, create a breathtaking spectacle as they march to the temple amidst cheers and applause from the crowd.