Thrissur Pooram festivities kick off with traditional flag hoisting, grand finale on April 26

The famed Thrissur Pooram festivities got underway on Monday with the customary 'kodiyettam' ritual, signalling the start of one of Kerala's most celebrated temple festivals. The ritualistic flag hoisting was carried out at all participating temples in and around the town, marking the formal beginning of the annual festivities, officials said. Alongside the ceremony, temples also witnessed a series of special poojas and customary rites as part of the opening day observances. This year's celebrations will continue over the coming days and culminate in the main Pooram event on April 26. The grand finale will see colourful processions from various temples assemble at Thekkinkad Maidan, located in front of the iconic Vadakkunnathan Temple in the city centre. The festivities will prominently feature the participation of Thiruvambady and Paramekkavu Devaswoms, which are known for their traditional rivalry in organising the elaborate elephant displays and fireworks display. Among the major attractions on the main day are the famed 'Ilanjithara Melam', the vibrant 'Kudamattom' involving the exchange of decorated parasols atop elephants, and large-scale fireworks. As per tradition, a preliminary round of fireworks, popularly referred to as 'sample vedikkettu', will be held ahead of the main display, which is scheduled to take place in the early hours following the Pooram day. The celebrations will draw to a close with the customary 'upacharam cholli piriyal', the farewell ceremony, marking the ceremonial conclusion of the festival.