The Uthralikkavu Pooram is a highly anticipated event in the region. Traditional musical ensembles such as Panchavadyam and Pandimelam add rhythm and grandeur to the elephant processions. Besides the processions, the festival offers a rich cultural experience with various temple and folk art performances, making it a true celebration of Kerala's heritage.
February 25, 2025-February 25, 2025 -
Sree Ruthira Mahakalikavu Temple Wadakkanchery Thrissur, Thrissur
Annually, the Sree Ruthira Mahakalikavu Temple in Thrissur comes alive
with the vibrant Uthralikkavu Pooram festival, drawing visitors from
near and far. This grand celebration spans eight days, with its
highlight being the majestic procession of around twenty-one elephants,
each adorned in traditional attire with colorful parasols, swaying
venchamarams (white tufts), and aalavattams (peacock-feather fans). Held
every year in the Malayalam month of Kumbham (February/March), this
festival is dedicated to Goddess Kali and features both day and night
elephant processions.
Located at
Wadakkanchery in the Thalappilly taluk of Thrissur district, the Sree
Ruthira Mahakalikavu Temple becomes the epicentre of activity and media
attention during the festival season. Despite its modest size compared
to other temples in Kerala, its picturesque setting amidst paddy fields
and highlands provides a stunning backdrop for the Pooram's features
such as elephant processions, fireworks, and percussion orchestras.
The festival kicks off with a flag-hoisting ceremony (kodiyettam) on the second Tuesday of Kumbham, coinciding with the local Machattu Mamangam festival. The main Pooram event takes place the following Tuesday, featuring a grand display of caparisoned elephants from three neighboring village temples: Enkakkad, Kumaranellur, and Wadakkanchery. Each team presents seven to eleven elephants, all decorated with traditional ornaments like nettipattam (trunk masks), aalavattam (shields), and venchamaram (fans). The central elephant carries a large plaque (thidambu or kolam) representing the deity.
04:00 - 23:59