During the Gajamela, a large number of caparisoned elephants are paraded through the streets, accompanied by traditional music, dance performances, and other cultural activities. The festival is a major attraction for both locals and tourists, showcasing Kerala's rich cultural heritage and the importance of elephants in the state's religious and cultural traditions. The highlight of the event is the grand procession of elephants, which are beautifully adorned and presented in a majestic manner.
The festival is not only a religious event but also a social and cultural gathering that brings together people from different communities. It is a time for celebration, feasting, and enjoying the various cultural performances that are organized as part of the festivities.
Elephants tamed in some of the temples in India bear the images of the gods in temple processions on some special days. Elephants hold important place as they have the privilege of escorting the numerous gods and goddesses. In early days affluent families in Kerala used to house an elephant and were considered a family member. The people of Kerala keenly observe elephant pageants on their special day.
Paripally Gajamela has the popular and unique elephant pageant that is held as a part of annual festival at Kodimootil Sree Bhadrakaali Temple in Paripally, Kerala.The word ‘Gajamela’ is composed of two words- ‘Gajam’ and ‘Mela’. Gajam is another word for elephant in Malayalam and Mela means fair.
An annual elephant parade in which more than 50 elephants take part is held in Paripally town of Thiruvananthapuram on tenth day of the festival is very popular among masses.
The devotees dedicate the elephants at the temple of goddess Bhadrakali, hoping it will bringprosperity and affluence during the procession. The ritual is called ‘nerch’. The procession presents a spectacular view of a string of caparisoned elephants.
The pooram and vela festivals are the best events to gaze at the majestic tuskers in all their caparisoned brilliance. Mahouts atop Colourfully decked up elephants holding high tinseled silk parasols (muthukuda) and swaying white tufts (venchamaram) and peacock feather fans (aalavattom) to the rhythm of the temple orchestra.
The elephant pageant is accompained by the musical harmony of five traditional instruments (panchvadyam) which forms a passionate element of the kudamattam ritual (the synchronised changing of the parasols atop the tuskers). Cultural programmes are held every night through the festival days.
Celebration
The celebration of Paripally Gajamela is a vibrant and lively event that showcases Kerala's rich cultural traditions. The festival is centered around the Kodimoottil Sri Bhadrakali Temple and includes a range of activities and rituals. Here are some key aspects of the celebration:
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Elephant Procession: The highlight of the Gajamela is the grand procession of elephants. These majestic animals are adorned with traditional ornaments, including golden caparisons (nettipattam), bells, and colorful umbrellas. The elephants march in a line, creating a stunning visual spectacle. The procession is accompanied by traditional music played on instruments like chendas (drums) and panchavadyam, a classical orchestra of Kerala.
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Rituals and Offerings: Various rituals are performed at the temple during the festival. Devotees offer prayers and make offerings to the deity, seeking blessings for prosperity and well-being. The temple grounds are beautifully decorated, and special poojas (rituals) are conducted.
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Cultural Programs: The festival features a variety of cultural performances, including classical dance forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, as well as folk dances and music. These performances showcase the rich cultural heritage of Kerala and are a treat for visitors.
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Food and Feasting: Food is an integral part of the celebration. The festival includes feasting, where traditional Kerala dishes are served to the devotees and visitors. Special meals, known as sadya, are prepared and served on banana leaves.
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Community Participation: The festival is a community event that brings together people from different walks of life. It is a time for socializing, celebrating, and enjoying the festive atmosphere. Residents and visitors actively participate in the festivities, creating a sense of unity and camaraderie.
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Fair and Market Stalls: In addition to the religious and cultural aspects, the festival also includes a fair with various market stalls. These stalls sell traditional crafts, souvenirs, food items, and other goods, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Getting There
By Air- Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport (TRV)Located about 70 km from Kollam, this is the nearest airport. It offers both domestic and international flights.
- Taxi/Car Rental: You can hire a taxi or rent a car from the airport to reach Kollam.
- Bus: Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses operate between the airport and Kollam.
Kollam has a major railway station, Kollam Junction (QLN), which is well-connected to various cities in India.
Reaching Kollam by Train:
- Direct trains to Kollam Junction are available from major cities like Trivandrum, Kochi, Bangalore, Chennai, and Mumbai. The station is located within the city, making it convenient for onward travel.
Kollam is well-connected by road to other parts of Kerala and neighboring states.
By Bus:
- KSRTC Buses: Regular KSRTC buses connect Kollam with nearby cities and towns, including Trivandrum, Kochi, and Alleppey.
- Private Buses: Many private operators also run buses to Kollam from various parts of Kerala and nearby states.
- From Trivandrum: Kollam is about 70 km from Trivandrum, and the journey by car takes approximately 1.5 hours via NH66.
- From Kochi: Kollam is around 140 km from Kochi, and the drive takes about 3-4 hours via NH66.
Kollam has an inland port, and you can reach the city via the backwaters from nearby places like Alappuzha (Alleppey). The scenic route offers a unique and picturesque experience.
Local Transportation in Kollam
Once in Kollam, you can use auto-rickshaws, taxis, buses, and rental vehicles to get around the city and nearby attractions.