The Attuvela Mahotsavam is a grandiose water carnival as opposed to many of the usual temple festivals celebrated in God's own country, Kerala where elephants play an important role and is a center of attraction. Attuvela Mahotsavam is a unique water carnival celebrated in the state of Kerala, India. This vibrant festival takes place at the Elankavu Bhagavathy Temple, situated near Vaikom in the Kottayam district. The event usually occurs in the Malayalam month of Meenam, which corresponds to March-April in the Gregorian calendar.
The festival is continued for two days. The Attuvela Mahotsavam is associated with the Elankavu Bhagavathy temple, sited at Vadayar village 3 kilometers far from Vaikom, of Kottayam district in Kerala. Goddess Bhagavathy is installed and worshiped in this temple. The festival is celebrated in Meenam month of Malyalam calendar which corresponds to March-April of Gregorian calendar.
The Goddess of Elamkavu is believed to be the sister of Kodungallur Bhagavathy. According to the legend associated with the festival, this day celebrates the welcome ceremony for the Kodungallur Bhagavathy to Elankavu who came to visit the goddess here.
Key Features of Attuvela Mahotsavam
The Water Procession: The main attraction of the festival is a grand water procession. The temple's deity, Goddess Bhagavathy, is taken on a ceremonial boat journey across the Vembanad Lake. The boats are beautifully decorated with colorful lights and traditional motifs. The procession is accompanied by smaller boats carrying devotees and musicians.
Historical Significance: The festival is believed to celebrate the arrival of the goddess from her mother's home to her husband's home, the temple. It symbolizes the divine union and is considered an auspicious occasion for the devotees.
Cultural Celebrations: The festival is a blend of religious rituals and cultural programs. Devotional music, traditional dances, and folk performances are part of the festivities. The temple premises are adorned with lights and decorations, creating a festive atmosphere.
Local Participation: The festival attracts a large number of local devotees and tourists. The local community has to come together and celebrate their cultural heritage.
Elamkavu Bhagavathy temple is a visual treat to the eyes of the visitors during festival time. A procession of devotees carrying beautifully decorated and warmly lit canoes, and huge colorful replica of the Elankavu temple navigate down the river Moovattupuzha waters.
In addition, the procession is also accompanied by hordes of festooned small canoes and traditional temple music. This water procession starts from the Attuvela kadavu, 2 kilometers away from the temple. A large number of devotees and visitors from nearby regions and beyond gather to witness the spectacle. The event provides an opportunity for people to come together, participate in the rituals, and enjoy the cultural programs.
The entire area is lively and festive. The procession, with its colorful lights reflecting on the waters, creates a mesmerizing sight. The community spirit is high, and there is a sense of joy and devotion among the participants and spectators.
The central event of the festival is the water procession on the Vembanad Lake. A large, elaborately decorated boat, representing a replica of the temple, carries the idol of Goddess Bhagavathy. This boat is accompanied by a flotilla of smaller boats, all lit up and decorated. The procession typically starts from the Kaduthuruthy Thiruvambady Temple and moves towards the Elankavu Bhagavathy Temple. The boats slowly glide over the serene waters, accompanied by the chanting of prayers, traditional music, and the beating of drums.
Getting There:
Reaching Vaikom, located in the Kottayam district of Kerala, is relatively straightforward. Here’s a guide on how to get there:
By Air:
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Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK), approximately 70 km from Vaikom.
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Travel Options from the Airport:
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Taxi: You can hire a taxi or cab directly from the airport to Vaikom.
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Bus: You can take a bus to Kottayam and then a local bus or taxi to Vaikom.
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By Train:
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Nearest Major Railway Station: Kottayam Railway Station (KYI), around 20 km from Vaikom.
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Travel Options from Kottayam Station:
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Taxi: Hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from Kottayam Railway Station to Vaikom.
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Bus: There are local buses from Kottayam to Vaikom.
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By Road:
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By Car: Vaikom is well-connected by road, and you can drive there from various parts of Kerala. Major roads leading to Vaikom include National Highway 183 (NH 183) and State Highways.
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By Bus: Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private bus operators run services to Vaikom from various cities and towns. You can check the KSRTC website or local bus schedules for more details.
Local Transport:
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Auto-Rickshaws and Taxis: Available for local transport within Vaikom.
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Local Buses: Connect Vaikom to neighboring towns and cities.
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