Overview

• Thrissur Pooram, a 36-hour temple festival in Kerala, is underway with its signature blend of rituals, processions, and cultural spectacle.
• The Pakalpooram processions, featuring richly adorned elephants and traditional percussion ensembles, have drawn massive crowds to Thekkinkadu Maidanam.
• The Kudamattam, an intricate umbrella exchange between Paramekkavu and Thiruvambady Devaswoms, dazzled spectators with its vibrant designs and LED-lit parasols.
• Tight security measures include a ban on political flags, ensuring the festival remains inclusive and focused on its cultural and religious roots.
• The festival will conclude on May 7 with a grand dawn fireworks display and the solemn Upacharam Cholli Piriyal farewell ceremony.