Thrissur Pooram to be celebrated in Kerala on Sunday

Thrissur (Kerala), May 2 (ANI): Thousands of people witnessed spectacular fireworks ahead of Thrissur Pooram, one of the most colourful and grandest temple festivals, in Kerala.'Thrissur Pooram', said to be the mother of all festivals, will be celebrated on Sunday.

A display of the gold plated ornaments for elephants, huge umbrellas and other items for the elephant parade on Sunday also attracted the enthusiasts in a big way.

This year the authorities have decided to use colourful eco-friendly crackers instead of the traditional high decibel pyrotechnics.

The featival is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The festival commences with the arrival of small processions, from various temples in different villages across Thrissur, and culminates at the grounds of Vadakkunnathan Temple.

"We are working to make Pooram a grand event this year. Almost all the arrangements are getting to the final stage," said Madhavan Kutty, member of exhibition committee.

This festival is one of the biggest festivals in Kerala as no other festival draws such an unbelievable number of people to a single event.

It is believed that King Sakthan, who ruled Cochin in the late 18th century, started the festival.

The word "Pooram" literally means a group or a meeting. It is believed that the gods and goddesses meet on the day of celebration, which falls in the month of April-May every year. (ANI)