Kerala is known for its vibrant and diverse festivals, which showcase the rich cultural heritage and religious traditions of the region. Here are some of the major festivals celebrated in Kerala:
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- Onam: Onam is the most important festival in Kerala, celebrated in the month of August or September. It marks the harvest season and commemorates the mythical homecoming of the King Mahabali. The festival is known for its grand floral decorations, traditional dance forms like Kathakali and Pulikali, boat races, and the elaborate feast called Onam Sadhya.
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- Vishu: Vishu is celebrated in April and marks the Malayalam New Year. The festival is observed with great enthusiasm, and people decorate their homes with a special arrangement called Vishu Kani. It includes a display of fruits, flowers, and other auspicious items. Fireworks, traditional games, and feasting are also part of the celebrations.
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- Thrissur Pooram: Thrissur Pooram is one of the most famous temple festivals in Kerala, held in the city of Thrissur. It usually takes place in April or May and involves a grand procession of beautifully adorned elephants, traditional music, and percussion performances. The festival brings together various temples in the region and attracts a large number of spectators.
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- Theyyam: Theyyam is a unique ritualistic dance form and religious festival prevalent in North Kerala. It showcases vibrant costumes, elaborate makeup, and mesmerizing dance performances by performers who embody deities or spirits. Theyyam festivals take place throughout the year in different temples.
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- Attukal Pongala: Attukal Pongala is a popular women’s festival celebrated in the city of Thiruvananthapuram. It is dedicated to the goddess Bhagavathy, and women gather in large numbers to cook a special offering known as Pongala, using earthen pots. The event holds a Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of women for a single religious event.
These are just a few examples of the numerous festivals celebrated in Kerala. The state’s cultural calendar is filled with a variety of religious, traditional, and art-related celebrations that showcase the vibrant spirit and cultural richness of the region.