In March, 2007 we were lucky enough to attend the Arattupuzha Pooram south of Trichur, Kerala, India. On this night it is believed that the Gods and Goddesses of Hindu Mythology reach this temple to pay respects to their holy teacher, the presiding deity. It is also believed that all our forefathers (and foremothers) come to pay their respects during the divine assembly. The Pooram starts after sunset with the first elephant procession. More than 200 musicians from all over Kerala participate in a throbbing percussion ensemble of horns and drums - for three straight hours! Other processions of Gods arrive and by sun rise they have all made their way to the other side of the immense field. The 100,000 plus crowd is filled with families in festive moods. The closing ceremony takes place at the river when the statues of the deities are dipped into the water. Inscription records show that this festival is 1425 years old. (Abstracted from article by C.A. Menon, Kerala Tourism) | ||
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