Kerala has always been quoted God’s own country; its lush green surroundings give a cool and soothing sight to everyone. There is harmony among all the communities of the state. Its rich culture and heritage is a pleasure.Thirunakkara Arattu Utsavam is a popular festival held at the Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple in Kottayam, Kerala, India. This festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion. It typically takes place in March-April and lasts for ten days, attracting devotees and tourists from all over.
Kerala is the land of high festivities and cheer. Many festivals are celebrated in this beautiful land. One of the famous temple festivals, Thirunakkara arattu is celebrated at Thirunakkara Mahaeva Temple located in the heart of Kottayam district of Kerala. Mahadeva is the presiding deity of the temple.
The passionate celebration continues for ten days and concludes with the bathing ceremony of lord Mahadeva called ‘ARATTU’.
A string of nine majestically ornamented and decorated elephants accompany the idol of the lord Mahadeva for bathing in the noon.
They are accompanied by drummers and dancing flock of people.
The mystic traditional dance of Kerala, Kathakali forms an important part of the celebrations. The beautifully and colourfully dressed and masked Kathakali dancers perform all night long on third and fourth night.
Other dances like Mayilattom (peacock dance), Velakali and motif processions are also showcased in the temple compound.
The fêted Mahadeva Temple is situated on the Thirunakkara Hill of the Kottayam town and is one of the important Shiva temples famous for its historical importance, antiquity, sanctity and also for its magnificent traditional architecture.
The grand festival "Arattu Utsavam" starts from the 1st day of Meenam month of Malyalam calendar. That falls in March-April of Gregorian calendar.
Thousands of people, irrespective of caste or creed attend this festival.
Various industrial and agricultural products are displayed and traded in the shops of the fair held in connection with the Utsavam. The cultural programmes and variety entertainments staged during the festive days are the highlights of the festival.
Key Highlights of Thirunakkara Arattu Utsavam:
- Processions and Rituals: The festival is marked by elaborate processions featuring beautifully decorated elephants. The "Arattu" ritual, where the deity is taken for a ceremonial bath, is a significant part of the celebrations.
- Cultural Performances: The festival also features a variety of cultural performances, including traditional Kerala art forms such as Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Thullal.
- Chenda Melam: The traditional percussion ensemble known as Chenda Melam adds to the vibrant atmosphere.
- Community Involvement: Local people actively participate in the festivities, making it a lively and inclusive event.
Significance
- Deity: The festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the presiding deity of the Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple.
- Rituals: The highlight of the festival is the "Arattu" ceremony, which involves the ritualistic bathing of the deity in the holy pond. This is performed on the last day of the festival.
Celebrations
- Cultural Events: The festival features a range of cultural programs, including classical music and dance performances, Kathakali, and other traditional art forms of Kerala.
- Processions: There are grand processions with beautifully decorated elephants, accompanied by traditional music and dance. The temple premises are adorned with lights and decorations, creating a festive ambiance.
- Devotee Participation: Thousands of devotees from different parts of the state and beyond gather to participate in the festivities and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
Unique Aspects
- Traditional Art Forms: The festival is known for its dedication to preserving and showcasing traditional art forms. Kathakali performances, in particular, are a major attraction.
- Local Involvement: The local community actively participates in organizing and celebrating the festival, reflecting the cultural heritage and religious fervor of the region.
Time for Celebration
The grand festival "Arattu Utsavam" starts from the 1st day of Meenam month of Malyalam calendar. That falls in March-April of Gregorian calendar. Thousands of people, irrespective of caste or creed attend this festival.Getting There
By Air:
-
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK) is the closest major airport, about 75 km from Kottayam. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a train/bus to Kottayam.
By Train:
-
Kottayam Railway Station: Kottayam is well-connected by rail. Major trains from cities like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Chennai stop at Kottayam Railway Station.
By Bus:
-
KSRTC and Private Buses: Kottayam is accessible by long-distance buses operated by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and various private operators. Buses connect Kottayam to major cities like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Bangalore.
By Car:
-
Driving: If you prefer driving, Kottayam is well-connected by road. It’s approximately 75 km from Kochi and about 165 km from Thiruvananthapuram. The roads are in good condition, making for a comfortable drive.
Local Transport:
-
Auto-rickshaws and Taxis: Once in Kottayam, you can use auto-rickshaws, taxis, or local buses to get around the city and to the Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple.