DANCES IN KERALA

Chakyar Koothu
Chakyar Koothu is a performing art style in Kerala, and also it is a socio-religious art performance in Koothambalam or the Koothuthara of temples.’koothu ‘ means dance ,it was performed by Chakyar community. It is a traditional equivalent of mono act and comic act .It was highly refined art form narrating stories from Hindu epics and puranas, combined with prevailing socio-political events, were originally performed in temples in connection with festivals by members of Chakyar Community. Only two instruments used for the performance – a Mizhav and a pair of Cymbals. Chakyar Koothu was performed only in koothambalam
Kathakali
Kathakali is a theatrical dance form of Kerala. It originated from Ramanattom and Krishnanattom. The name Kathakali derives from the Malayalam words ‘Katha’ (meaning story) and ‘Kali’ (meaning play). kathakali is considered to be a combination of five elements of fine art – Expression, Dance, Enactment, song/ vocal accompaniment , instrument accompaniment . There are 101 classical Kathakali stories. The most popular stories enacted are Nala Charitam, Kalyanasowgandhikam, Keechaka vadham etc.The songs used for Kathakali is a mix of Malayalam and Sanskrit.
Mohiniyattam
Mohiniyattam is a very graceful dance performed by women .The word ‘Mohiniyattam’ means ‘dance of the enchantress’. The costume includes gold – bordered off-white saris and gold jewellery, their in a chignon high on one side of the head and encircled with white jasmine flowers. Mohiniyattam dance is performed by the footwork of the danseuse.
Oppana
Oppana is a popular form of social entertainment among the mappila community of Kerala, especially in the northern districts of Calicut and Malappuram. oppana is generally presented by women , numbering about fifteen including musician on a wedding day.
Thiruvathirakkali
Thiruvathirakkali is a popular folk dance form of women in Kerala. In this, eight to ten girls perform forming a circle by themselves. They sing and dance to the rhythm of clapping hands. This dance is performed on festivals like Onam and Thiruvathira
Theyyam
Theyyam is a well-known ritual dance of north Kerala. it is performed by the male members of the traditional cast groups . The term Theyyam is a corrupt form of daivam or god
Margomkali
Margamkali is a art of the Syrian Christians. A dozen of dancers sing and dance around a Nilavilakku(lighted wick lamp) . The costume is simple traditional white dhoti and sporting a peacock feather on the turban to add a touch of color.
Padayani
Padayani , it is a week- long ritual dance, held in Kaali temples on the banks of the pamba river. Steps and movements of the dance vary according to each kolam or character. Patayani masks are made with the fresh spathe of arecanut palms.
Kummattikali
Kummattikali is the famous dance of Kerala; it is a colourful mask-dance. Kummattikali performers move from house to house and collecting small gifts and entertainging people.
Sarpam Thullal
Sarpam thullal is usally performed in the courtyard of houses having snake shrines. This is a family votive offering for wealth and happiness. The dance performed by Pulluvar.
Mayilpeeli Thookam
Mayilpeeli Thookam is a folk dance .It is performed by men. This dance also known as Arjuna nirtham .This art form mainly based on the Mahabaratha.
Mudiyettu
Mudiyettu is a ritual art performance. The theme depicts the glory and triumph of Bagavathy over the demon Darika. The dance is performed by a set of people known as Kuruppanmar.
Poothanum Thirayum
Poothanum Thirayum is a ritual dance to propitiate goddess Kali, it is performed by the Mannan community of south Malabar.The main theme of the dance is that slaying of Demon Daarikan by Kali
Tiyattu
Tiyattu was a traditional dance form. It is performed by the people of Unni and Nambiar castes in Kerala .Two types of tiyattu.One is bhadrakali tiyattu and another one is Ayyappan tiyattu.
Kanyarkali
Kanyarkali is a folk art form. It is performed by the Nair community of Palakkad District. Kanyarkali combaines the agile movements of marital arts with the rhythmic grace of folk dance
Chavittunatakom
Chavittunatakom is a music drama performance. The theme of the drama was Christian religious history.’ Chavittu ‘means the rhythmic steps which accompanies the recitation of lines in the drama
Kakkarissi Natakom
Kakkarissi natakom is a satirical dance- drama .It is based on the puranic legends of Lord Siva and Parvati. When they assumed human forms as Kakkalan and Kakkathi . The language is a blend of Tamil and Malayalam.
Krishnnattam
Krishnnattam is a temple art, now it is performed at Guruvayur Temple. The performce is based on Krishngiti.
Kolkkali
Kolkkali is a widely prevalent group dance in Kerala especially among farmers. Its exposition of physical skill, kolkkali is believed to be existent for more than a millennium.
Kootiyaattom
Koottiyattom is the earliest classical dramatic art form of Kerala. Kootiyattom means ‘acting together’. This art form is based on Bharatha’s Natyasathra. There are two or more characters onstage at the same time, with the Chakkiar providing the male cast and Nangiar playing the female roles.

Author :Smitha Atholi

Mandalapooja ; A holy Fasting of Forty-one days

Mandalapooja is one of the major festivals in South India. It is observed with high religious sentiments during the pilgrim season between November and January. The festival is related to Sabarimala, the abode of the Hindu God, lord Ayyappa. The temple is situated in the hilly area of pristine and scenic beauty at an altitude of about 3500 feet, in Pathanamthitta district of Kerala. The important part of the festival is the pilgrimage to Sabarimala. Devotees adhere to forty-one days of austerities and penance and prepare themselves wearing the rosary and do the poojas, chanting Ayyappa hymns and meditating everyday and live like a celibate. They abstain from all sensual pleasures and take only vegetarian food during this pilgrim season namely Mandalakaalam. The male devotees are called ‘ayyappan’ and the female devotees are called ‘malikappuram’. This is the rarest of festivals in which the god and devotee are called by the same name. females between the age of 10 to 50 are not allowed to Sabarimala. Every year a growing number of 3-4 million devotees visit Sabarimala during this season. Regardless of caste, creed,colour or religion everyone wears black dhotis and carry on their heads, bundles called ‘irumudikkettu’ containing traditional offerings like coconut filled with ghee, camphor and rice. The temple is inundated with pilgrims from all across India. Ayyappans move in small groups in the leadership of a ‘guruswami’ and reach Pamba. They take a holy dip in the river Pamba which is considered to be absolving sin. From Pamba, the temple is accessible only by foot. One has to treck about 4km to reach th final 18 steps called ‘pathinettaampadi’ the final steps before getting the holy view of lord Ayyappa.
In addition to the mandala kaalam, the Ayyappa temple remains open only on the 1st day of every Malayalam month and on the day of Vishu festival. Lord Ayyappa is considered as the union of the lord Vishnu and the lord Shiva, the god of preservation and god of destruction respectively. Hence Ayyappa is considered to be the bestower of limitless blessings in Kaliyuga and thus called Kaliyugavarada.

Author : Shaiju

Avaniavittam; Forsak of old holy thread

Avani avittam is a festival celebrated by the Brahmins. This festival falls in the month of Sravan (August-September) on the day of Sravan –Purnima. Celebrated widely in the states of Kerala, Tamilnadu, Maharastra and Orissa it is one of the most important festival for the Hindus. This is also called Upakarmam.

The Brahmins renounce their old holy thread and wear a new one on this day. They believe that renouncing the old thread signifies the washing away of all the sins committed. A dip in the holy river is taken to wash away the sins and a new thread is worn with a prayer to provide them with strength and dignity.

This day is celebrated in the northern states of India as Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi. Here sisters tie a silken-thread-rakhi on the wrist of their brothers. The brother takes the vow to protect his sister lifelong.
Author: Shabhnam

The Biggest Christian Conference;Maraamon Convention

Maramon Convention, the biggest Christian conference in Asia, is a spiritual & cultural meet of Kerala Christians. All Christian churches participate in this convention. This spiritual festival continues to run for over a century. It is an eight day-long annual festival, conducting every month of February.
The Maramon Convention is pre-eminently an assembly of Christians who once a year come here for listening to the Word of God as read and expounded by leaders of Christian thought from all over India as well as abroad. Preaching and Bible study occupy the major part of the conference programmer. Along with the religious reading and discourse, singing of hymns and praying for the sick and the needy are also held. It is grand sight to behold the sea of humanity offer prayers for the sick and the suffering for half an hour every day for a week. Prayer and worship at the convention accompanied by singing is a wonderful experience for every participant- an experience which purges and cleanses his soul and draws him closer to God and to his fellowmen.
Convention location is on the banks of river Pamba. It is known as Pamba Manalppuram (vast sand-bed). Here a big temporary pandal (canopy) is created. In this pandal over one lake persons can sit. Temporary bridges are built across river Pamba. Traditionally Cadjan leaves are used for pandal. Maramon, Kozhenchery, Pullad, Ayiroor, Kumbanad & other nearby parishes together create the pandal. They donate Cadjan leaves, bamboo poles & other materials for erecting the convention pandal. About a week before the convention, the sand banks become a scene of great activity. All round the pandal there are temporary sheds and tents for various purposes furthering the objects of the Convention. Stalls for the sale of religious literature, church offices and restaurants are allowed to operate in the vicinity of the pandal under the strict control of the authorities. Long valloms (boats) with canopies, and stored with provisions for the use of families from distant places lie anchored in the river.
Bishops of Marthoma church & other churches, ministers, MLAs, political & cultural leaders & different personalities participate in the convention. Audience is a big crowd. However there will be no appointing police & security persons. Each person obeys self discipline. This is a specialty of Maramon Convention.
Preparation for convention starts months ago by church & government departments. Organizing committee and other 16 sub committees are doing their own duties well. Mike using started in convention since 1948. Till then the lecturers’ words reached to the audience through mouth to mouth method. In these periods there was no electricity. So petromaxes were used for light. Now latest voice & light technologies are used.
Building homes for poor, destitute homes, Sunday school & other activities & ideas are created by Maramon Convention. The convention spreads unity of different christian churches. Also it gives spiritual progress & relief for believers.
Maramon is also famous as the birth place of Palakkunnathu Abraham Maplah, leader of the reformation in the Syrian Church of Malabar in the 19th century. This village which developed into a town has the added distinction of being the venue of Maramon Convention.

Author : Sakeer

Payippadu Vallamkali

Payippad Jalotsavam is fourth biggest Boat Race in Kerala. Alappuzha Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Pulinkunnu Rajiv Gandhi Boat Race, Champakkulam Moolam Boat Race are other biggest Boat Race in Kerala.
The three-day annual fiesta on the Payippad Lake, 35km from Alappuzha, commemorates the installation of the deity at the Subramanya Swamy Temple in Harippad. The story is that the people of the village decided to build a temple with Sree Ayyappa as the presiding deity. After the temple was ready, they had a vision directing them to a whirlpool at Kayamkulam Lake where they would find the idol of Sree Subramanya which was to be installed at the temple. Accordingly, the elders of the village accompanied by divers and swimmers rowed to the spot and found the idol which was escorted back ceremoniously by devotees from the entire region in colorfully decorated boats. This happened on the Thiruvonam day of the Malayalam month of Chingam. To this day a water fiesta is conducted along the route traced by the auspicious procession. Besides the boat race, spectacular water pageants are organized with water floats, decorated boats, performing arts, children in fancy attire etc. The vanchipattu is a characteristic feature of these processions. The event draws hundreds of thousands of spectators from all over.

Author: Sakeer

Thrissur Pooram: Mother Of All Pooram

Thrissur pooram, the most eye-catching festival of Kerala , is a cultural highlight par-excellence, celebrated on ‘Pooram nakshathram’ in the Malayalam month of ‘Medam’ (April, May) It is considered as the ‘Mother of all Poorams’ and is the meeting place of all arts. It lasts for about 36 hours. People across all barriers of religion and caste conducted and participated in Thrissur pooram.

The festival was introduced by Sakthan Thamburan the former Maharaja of Kochi, Ramavarma(1775- 1790) . Celebrations are staged at Thekkinkadu grounds surrounding the ‘Vadakkunatha’ temple. Thrissur poorm attracts large number of devotees and viewers from all the parts of state and even from outside. The most impressive processions are those from the ‘Krishna’ temple at Thiruvambadi and ‘Devi’ temple at Paramekkavu which are quite significant event for their devotees. The pooram festival is also well known for the awe- inspiring display of fire works. Fire works start in the early hours and the glittering display lasts three to four hours.
TEN DEITIES
Ten deities from the neighboring temples pay obeisance to the presiding deity of Thrissur. Chief participants are Paramekkavu and Thiruvambadi. Other participants called ‘Cherupoorams’ include Kanimangalam, Karamukku, Choorakattukara, Laloor, Ayyanthole, Nethilakkavu, Chembukavu, and Panamukkampilly.
BEHIND THE STORY & END OF SUPREMACY OF NAMBOOTHIRIES
There is little history to the festival which says that before Thrissur pooram, a one- day temple festival was detained at Aratupuzha Twelfth (12 k.m) south of the Thrissur. Temples is and around. thrissur were regular participants of the religious exercise until they were once denied entry by the chief of the Peruvannan area of Cherpu, known for its Namboodiri supremacy. Namboodiries were considered the formost Bhramin caste in Kerala. Prince ‘RAMAVARMA’ the architect of Thrissur, decided to put an end to Namboodiri supremacy and alleviate the offended confidence of his subjects.
‘RAMAVARMA’ undertook the task pf reconditioning ‘Vadakkunatha’ temple which was earlier bounded by high walls and was controlled by Namboodiries. Raja Ramavarma to thrissur where they could pay obeisance to Lord (sri) Vadakkunathan the deity of the vadakkunathan temple .Further he directed the main temples od Thrissur- Thiruvambadi and Paramekkavu - to extend all help and support to these temples. Ten deities from the neighboring temples pay obeisance to the presiding deity of Thrissur and only spectator of the pooram event, Vadakkunatha temple situated in the heart.
EZHUNALLIPPU
The festival extends for 36 hours beginning with Ezhunnellippu of the Kanimangalam Shasta in the morning, followed by the Ezhunnellippu’of the other six minor temples on the pooram day. Thiruvambadi temples to the Vadakkunathan temple. It may be noted that although this grand festival is known as Thrissur pooram, it is in fact the conclusion of the eight- day utsavams.
RITUALS& REVELS
Major participant of the pooram, Paramekkavu& Thiruvambadi provide a spectacular show of best of kerala art &culture to the on lookers as they display their artistic ability. Each group proves their own abilities. Colossal and colorful processions are organized by temples, starting from Krishna temple and Devi temple. The group enters the Vadakkunatha temple through the western gate of the temple. Both the groups stand face to face and the competition become open.
PANCHAVADYAM & PANDIMELAM
A main attraction of the pooram is ‘Panchavadyam’. Panchavadyam, a combination of five percussion and wind instruments is to be felt and enjoyed. Over 200 artists from various disciplines like Thimila, Maddalam, Trumpet, Cymbal and Edakka unleash their talent and leave the audience spell bound. Time of noon is reserved for another event called Pandimelam, in which artists holding mastery of Drum, Drum pets, Pipe and Cymbal participate.
ANACHAYAM PRADARSANAM
A convey of caparisoned elephants is the most captivating aspect of Thrissur pooram.On the pooram evening, two lines of 13 decorated elephants face each other, on the ground south to the temple . The best elephants are selected for the convey and given a hugemake over. They are painted, bejeweled and given abeautiful satin robe. Colorful silk parasols are the important part of their getup. Each of the majestic pachyderm gets the honor of bearing an umbrella holder, a ‘peacock fan(Alavattom) carrier and a yak- tail fly whisk wielder(Venchamaram).This exhibition of the paraphernalia of elephants decoratives is called ‘Anachayam pradarsanam’
KUDAMATTOM
Space between the two lines of elephants is taken up by the orchestra consisting of precussion and wind instruments. Just wheb orchestra reaches its crescendo; the parasols are changed with an even more colourful and exquiste one. The ceremonycalled ‘Kudamattom’.This is very exciting for the crowds who applaud whole heatedly every time the parasols change. The deities of different temples arrive on the regally decorated elephants. The sight of the meeting of the different ‘GODS’ is the brilliant and memorable one.
A SPECTACULAR FIRE WORKS
The festivals conclude with the dazzling display of fire works. The bursting of crackers continous till the wee hours of the next morning. Shows by Thiruvambadi and Paramekkavu Devasom are the most reputed and popular of all. They present many innovative patterns and varieties of fire works which make spectators going raptures. this famous and mighty display of the magnificent display of fire works add to the popularity of the pooram festival Thus the festivals which begins in the early hours of the pooram morning concludes at the break of the dawn, the next day on a cheerful note. Pooram festival.
THRISSUR POORAM FEST IN CHENNAI
The confederation of Tamilnadu Malyalee Associations (CTMA) was reenacting the famous Thrissur pooram in Chennai for the first time on Sunday, September 30, 2007 at St. George’s AI Higher Secondary School, Poonamalee Road. A herd of eleven caparisoned life-like elephants were displayed with full decoration including silk umbrellas Peacock fan (Alavattom) Yak tail fly whiskers(Venchamaram) colorful silk parasols was show for ‘KUDAMATTOM’ . A team of 250 artists from Thrisuur were playing the melam, ‘PANCHAVADYAM’ and ‘ELANCHITHARAMELAM’. Finally the exquisite display of fire crackers was very amazing.

PROMINENT FEATURE OF THRISUR POORAM
The most striking feature of the Thrissur pooram is its very secular nature. The Muslim and Christian communities actively take part in it and they play a very prominent role in the very conduct of the festival Most of the pandals are the craft work of the experts from the Muslim community. For the two days of the festival, the CMS School owned by the north Kerala Dioceses of CST church and located on the Western part of the Swaraj Round, becomes very virtually the Head quarters of the Thiruvambadi Devasom. The temple elephants are tied in the school compound. The ‘ANACHAMAYA PRADARSANAM’ is also held here. The parasols for the ‘KUDAMATTOM’ are offered by the churches and their members. At time when the secular fabric of the Indian society is slowly decayed, one can not be narrow minded to the relevance of Thrissur pooram, the conduct of which should come worthy of emulation to other festivals in the country.

Author: Smitha AT

It 's New Year : Vishu

HAPPY NEW YEAR! That’s what we have got to say to a mallu when we get up on a Vishu day morning. Do you know why? Well it’s because the day celebrated as Vishu is the first day of the first Malayalam month Medam.it is actually a harvest festival which mirrors the prosperity of the state. Vishu is celebrated not only here in Kerala but in many other Indian states. In Tamil Nadu it is called Puthandu, Punjabis call it Baisakhi, and for assamis it is Bihu.
Vishu kani (the first thing seen on Vishu) is the most auspicious ritual of the day. It is believed that seeing a good kani on the first day of the year brings a good year ahead. At the night before Vishu the mistress of the house prepares the kani. It is prepared in the pooja room. The statue of Lord Sri Krishna is kept and many auspicious items are kept around it. They include, konnapoovu (flowers of cassia fistula), nilavilakku (lighted lamp) (betel leaves), kanivellari (cucumber which is golden colour), areca nut, mirror, coins, kasavupudava (linen cloth) etc.
After preparing the kani the mistress sleeps near it. She gets up early in the morning and sees the kani first, and then she goes and wakes up the other members of the house and brings them to the pooja room blind folded.
The next ritual that follows is the most love one among us, children and youngsters- vishukkaineettam. Here the elder member of the house gives kaineettam as coins to the younger ones. This is believed to bring prosperity to their lives. All of them take bath and wear new clothes which are called puthukkodi.
In the afternoon a tasty meal called the sadhya is served. It is served in plantain leaves and includes a lot of tasty items. Vishu kanji, veppumpoorasam (a food prepared out of neem), maambazhapachadi (mango soup) are all add ons to this sadhya.
After this wonderful meal family gathers in the courtyard and children enjoy their vishupadakkam or bursting crackers. Thus Vishu is not a mere festival for us keralites but it is a time of reunion of the whole family, a time of prosperity a time where you welcome the coming year with great hope. On the whole Vishu is a day of new dreams and ambitions springing up.
Author : Shabnam

Bakrid: Memory of Ultimate Sacrifice

Other Names - Id-Ul – Adha or Id- Ul- Zuha
Celebrated On - The tenth day of the month Dhul Hijja.

‘BAKRID’ is religious festival celebrated by muslims world wide as a commemoration of ‘Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael to Allah. It is called as Id- Ul- Zuha, which coincides with the Haj pilgrimage at Mecca. In India bakrid is a festival of rejoicing.

THE HERE ANE NOW
According to popular belief, prophet Ibrahim was put to tough test by Allah to prove his faith, he was asked to sacrifice his son Ishmael and without any un certainty prophet Ibrahim blindfolded himself and made the offering on the mount of Mina near Mecca. When prophet Ibrahim opened his eyes, he was astonished to find a goat lying upon the altar and his son standing in front of him: ever since, followers of Ishmael all over the world offer sacrifices on the festival day.

On this day devot Muslims of all ages offer special prayers at mosques in the morning. Whereas Id Ul Fither has much focus on feasting, revelry and dressing in one’s best, bakrid is comparatively modest. Muslims sacrifice animal - a goat or sheep -divide the meat into three parts and distribute it among poor, friends and relatives and whatever remains is for the family.

Bakrid also marks the culmination of the Haj- pilgrimage to ‘Ka’ba’ in Mecca where muslims from the world over assemble. The ‘Ka’ba’ was the most important place of worship even before the advent of Islam and the revelation of the holy ‘QURAN’ to prophet Muhammed , after which significance of the ‘Ka’ba’ has been growing . The day of Id Ul Zuha starts with the early morning ‘NAMAZ’ in a Mosque. Namaz is offered in the early hours of the day.
The whole atmosphere is filled with resonance of ‘ALLAHU AKBAR’. The meeting then prepares for the congregational prayer led by the ‘IMAM’. After the prayer they exchange greetings and, as an expression of affectionate brotherhood, hug each other. People visit friends and relatives wearing new clothes & jewellery. Children are given gifts & money. The Indian subcontinent sweets are exchanged.

Muslim women in Kerala pay visits to the neighboring homes and take part in singing and dancing in the evening special meetings are perfect examples of the spirit of tolerance and mutual friendship that exist between communities in the state.

BAKRID RECIPES
Special dishes are prepared on this occasion. Sweet dishes, to non vegetarian items like Biriyani, Ghee rice, Chicken curry, Chicken varattiyathu, Stufffed bread, Muttamala, Mutta suruka, Chattipathiri, Irachipathiri, Nei pathiri, Samosa, Unnakkai etc.

Onam :The Harvest Festival Of Kerala

Onam is a secular harvest festival, celebrated all over the state of Kerala. This festival is celebrated in memory of the golden days under a mythical King Mahaabali, who ruled Kerala. Keralites celebrate Onam in the beginning of ‘Chingam’ (the first month of Malayalam calendar). People of Kerala welcome Mahaabali with ‘pookalams’, songs , dance and games.

Celebration of Onam lasts for ten days in Kerala. In some regions, festivities are limited to 4-6 days only. Each day has special rituals and people follow them dutifully.

Onam starts from Atham and ends on the tenth day Thiruvonam. These days are of great celebration. Some people celebrate ‘Uthradam’ also as extremely important.

The Legend of Onam
King Mahaabali is the most famous and the attractive hero behind the festival Onam. Onam celebrates the annual visit of King Mahaabali to the state of Kerala.
Mahaabali is also known by other names like ‘Maveli’ and ‘Onathappan’. According to myth, he was an Asura king who ruled Kerala. He was an able and just ruler and the people lived happily.
Precise story of king Mahaabali
Mahaabali was the son of Veerochana and grandson of Prahlad the devout son of demon king Hiranyakashipu. Mahaabali had a son called Bana , who become a legendary king in his own right and become popular as Banaraj in central Assam. Mahaabali belonged to the Asura dynasty but was an ardent worshiper of Lord Vishnu. His strength of character earned him the title of “Mahaabali chakravarthy” or Mahaabali the king of kings.
Gods became jealous of his popularity and fame. They started thinking about ways to destroy their enemy So Goddess Aditi approached Vishnu whom Mahaabali worships.

Mahaabali was a generous person. He always grand help to the poor who came to him. Lord Vishnu himself incarnated as a poor Brahimin called ‘Vamana’, approached king Mahaabali and asked him for a pieceof land. The generous Mahaabali let him take as much as he wanted. The Brahmin said that he wanted ‘three steps of land’. King Mahaabali was surprised to hear this. He granted the request. Royal adviser Sukraachaarya warned him that Vamana was not an ordinary person. Mahaabali however said that it would be a sin for a king not to keep his promise. The Brahmin was allowed take the land. Mahaabali could not understand that the Brahmin was Lord Vishnu. Vamana grew to gigantic proportions. With his first step he covered the whole earth and with the second step he covered all heavens. There was no space for the third step. Mahaabali, with folded hands, bowed before Vamana and asked him to take the next step on his head and Vamana did so. Mahaabali was pushed to ‘Paataalam’. Then Lord Vishnu revealed his identity and the king was surprised. He requested permission to visit his people once in a year and Lord Vishnu allowed him.
Onam is the day when Mahaabali comes visiting his subjects


Onam Specialties
Onasadya, Pookalam , Vallamkali, Boat Race

Onasadya
Onasadhya is the most delicious item of the grand festival Onam. Both rich and poor people prepare onasadhya in a grand manner. 25 essential dishes are prepared for onasadhya .

Onasadhya is served on a tender banana leaf laid on a mat laid on the floor. Tradition has fixed an order to the serving of the dishes and there is a clear idea as to what will be served in which part of the banana leaf. After making food, people offer food to Good

Pookalam
Pookalam is a very complex and colorful arrangement of flowers laid on the floor. Pookalam is a combination of a two words, ‘poov’ means flower and ‘kalam’ means color sketcheson the ground.Old people used to make efforts to collect flowers for designing a pookalam . In the morning children get up early and gather flowers in their small ‘pookooda’ (basket) from the village gardens. Nowadays, the trend has changed and people have the option of buying flowers from the market in the shape and color of their choice.
Vallamkali
Vallamkali is the most attractive aspect of the onam festival. The Kerala state promotes this as a major tourist attraction.

In addition to these there are somany sports and games played in relation to Onam thy are Talappanthukali, Kayyankali, Attakalam ,Ambeyyel , Kutkutu .
Important item among them are Kummattikali, Pulikali/ Kaduvakali, Thumbi Thullal and Kaikottikali.
Without losing the old delicacy Malayalees welcomes Onam.

Author: Smitha Atholi

Muharram : The Opening month Of Hijira

Muharram is the opening month of Hijra year. The tenth day of this month is honored by the Muslims of Kerala. It is believed that during this month, while on a journey, Hazrat Imam Hussain, his family members and a number of his followers were surrounded by the forces of Yazid, the Muslim ruler of the time. During the siege, they were deprived of food and water and many of them were put to death. The incident happened at a place called Karbala in Iraq in 61st year after Hijra. This dispute was result of a disagreement among Muslims on the question of succession after the demise of Hazrat Ali, the fourth caliph.
Copiously decorated tazias (bamboo and paper replicas of martyr’s tomb) inflated with gilt and mica are carried through the city streets. Accompanied by drum beats, the mourners cry and beat their breasts, grieving over the murder. Wrestlers and dancers endorse scenes illustrating the battle at Karbala.
On this day the Jews observe fast. The Prophet instructed the Muslims to observe fast on the ninth and tenth of Muharram. It was to commemorate the victory of the Jews over Pharaoh that fasting was instructed to Muslims on these days.
Muharram is an important religious ceremony for Shia Muslims. Only the very much devoted among Sunni Muslims observe fast.
Tiger-dance is one of the main items of this festival. To idealize the valor of Hussain some men assume the guise of tiger by painting their whole body to bring out the appearance of tiger, wear masks and parade through streets, playing, dancing and mimicking a tiger.
Author: Adarsh B M

Christmas: memory of Jesus’ birth

Christmas is celebrated all over the world among Christianity. It indicates the birth of Jesus Christ. Most Churches celebrate Christmas on 25th December. Some Churches celebrate on 6th January.
Exactly the meaning of Christmas is Christ’s Mass. People of Kerala celebrate Christmas without any discrimination of religion, caste or creed. It is an occasion for the reunion of families. Christmas is not a mere festival, but a solemn occasion of renewal of the memory of Jesus’ birth, life and his sacrifice.
Christmas in Kerala
The religious belief doesn’t interpret the celebration of Christmas. The considerable percentage of Christians in Kerala celebrates Christmas very widely. They hang stars on the branches of a tree in front of the house. The stars indicate the arrival of Christmas. This star is made up of bamboo pieces and they cover it with various colored papers. After making star, they place a light in the star, and hang it on a tree or a staff fixed on roof. But now people use ready made stars. They are available in almost all shops. It is very interesting to children to arrange stars in their houses.

Various modes of celebration
Greeting cards
Sending greeting cards is another important device of celebrations during Christmas. People send them to relatives, friends, lovers and so on . But now it has given way to a new trend: people send messages in mobile phone as SMS, picture messages, or MMS. It has become a trend among students and the youth. Greeting cards are rather expensive and everybody cannot afford it. But even now they are aplenty in shops.
Carol
Christmas carol is another fascinating item of Christmas .Carol groups visit all houses in the neighborhood dancing and singing with Infant Jesus and Santa Claus. People contribute money and participate in the joyful occasion. Carol troops use musical instruments; Santa Claus give gifts to little kids. It is especially for the children and they enjoy it most. The gifts which they receive are usually for the pocket money to celebrate.
Crib
People even non Christians make Cribs in their houses. Usually it is the children who make Cribs very attractively and beautifully. Parents help them. Small icons of infant Jesus, Holy Mary, ST. Joseph, the shepherds with Lambs, singing Angels and so on give life & beauty to the Cribs. Stars and Electric bulbs add to the beauty.
Christmas tree
. It is also another important and attractive item in Christmas celebration. Children usually climb on the tree to cut the branches to make Christmas tree. The branches of Casuarinas are usually used to make Christmas tree. The tree is decorated with bulbs, stars, color papers, balloons and so on. Nowadays we get ready made Christmas trees from shops
Mass
It is the most important holy ceremony of Christmas. On the occasion of Christmas, there are midnight masses in all Churches. Before mass the priest brings out the image of infant Jesus and is accompanied by some children.
People pray and sing aloud when the curtain of Crib raises and the priest keeps infant Jesus in it. The Mass will be over by about midnight. After the Mass they share Christmas cakes in Church.
Food and drinks
Liquor has gained a major role in Christmas celebrations in Kerala. People drink and eat fully with joy. House wives make delicious food. This is an examine occasion for them in making delicious food. They make Cakes and so on. The most important delicious meals in Christmas day are Fish molly, karimeen pappas (a local fish delicacy) with appam. It is an excellent combination of meals. There will be three to five courses of foods at noon. Wine with cake, bread with fish molly, appam with beef curry and rice with all sorts of side dishes and so on are used in this occasion .Before taking food everybody pray to God together .
Visits
During Christmas people visit neighbors and relatives. Parties may be arranged there. Men make a company with drinks; Women share the kitchen; children get new dresses and toys to play. Apart from tasty food and the company of relatives, the most important thing is that they get freedom from study and work. They are allowed to enjoy and play with their friends. This memory will remain till their death.
The story of Jesus’ birth and Christmas
The story of Christmas may bring you to understand the whole story about Christmas and Jesus’ birth.
Foretelling of Jesus’ birth.
Mary, a Galilean lady living in Nazareth engaged to be married to Joseph, a carpenter. An Angel announced to her that she would conceive a son by the power of the Holy Spirit and she would give birth to this child and should name him Jesus. When Mary heard these words, she was afraid and troubled. She started questioning the angel:
“How will this be”? The angel told that the child who is going to born is God‘s own son and ‘Everything is possible to God.’ Hearing these words, she became happy and rejoiced in God.

Jesus’ birth
Before marriage, Mary became pregnant by the power of Holy Spirit. When Joseph heard about it ,he was disgraced and unpleasant. So he decided to forgo her. Under Jewish law she could be put to death by stoning. Though his decision was to break the engagement which is better for a man to do, he treated her with superior kindness. He did so because he did not want to make her ashamed.
In his sleep, there appeared an angel in his dream and told him the real story about the pregnancy
Of Mary. The angel told him that his marriage with her was God’s will. The angel also told that the child within Mary was conceived by Holy Spirit, and that child would be named Jesus. He is the ‘Messiah’, means God with us. When he woke up from sleep, Joseph believed everything even though that was in dream. He decided to take Mary his wife. As he was noble, God selected him to be the Messiah’s earthly father.
He wondered at the words which appeared in Isaih 7:14. It contained the foretelling of Jesus’ birth. “There fore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The Virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel’.
During that time, Caesar ordered to take the census. Joseph belonged to the line of David. So he had to go to Bethlehem taking Mary with him. On the way to Bethlehem, Mary delivered Jesus in a crude stable because all the inns were crowded and they had no other place of shelter. The baby was wrapped in clothes and was placed in a manger.
The shepherds worship the baby
An angel appeared to the shepherds while they were guarding the flocks of sheep , and announced that the saviors had been born in the town of David. Then there appeared a great host of angels and they began singing praises to God. When they disappeared, the shepherds decided to go to Bethlehem and praise the child.
When they arrived there, they saw the baby along with Mary and Joseph. They offered gifts to baby Jesus. On return they began spreading this news, praising and worshiping God.
The Magi’s gift
During the birth of Jesus, Herod was the king of Judea. At that time the Magi (wise men ) saw the star from east .This star was the symbol of Jesus’ birth . They came to the palace of Herod and asked about the birth of Jesus. The rulers replied:“in Bethlehem in Judea”. The Magi were ordered to collect news regarding Jesus and report to Herod. Herod wanted to kill the baby.
They found Jesus and Mary with the help of the star .They began to worship and praise the baby by offering treasures of gold, incense and myrrh. They did not go back to Herod .They had been warned in a dream of his plot to destroy the child.
author: Jayesh Kurian

Guruvayoor Festival : Happy Birthday Unnikannan

Guruvayoor ‘Utsave’ is celebrated for ten days form ‘Puyam Nall ‘in the month of ‘Kumbham’. Elegantly decorated and buzzing with business, the temple town is very attractive at the time.
Elephant Race
Aanayottam (elephant race) is the greatest attraction in the festival .This has roots in a myth. Formerly Guruvayoor temple was under the Thrikunavaya temple. Once Thrikannamathilakam temple authorities would not sent elephants to the Guruvayoor Utsav. In remembrance of this event, on the elephant race is conducted the Utsave. Running from Manjulal near East nada of the temple, elephants enter the compound of the temple. The elephant which completes seven rounds and touch the flag post first is selected to bear the ‘Thidampu’.
On the first day evening ‘Acharyavaranam’, ‘Kody pooja’ and ‘Kodiyettam’ are the big ceremonies. ‘Kodipurathuvilaku’, another major ceremony is the procession of the Lord on ‘Pazhukka mandapam’.This ritual is performed twice - in the in the morning after’Pantheeradypooja’ on the south side; in the evening after Athazha pooja on the north of chuttambalam. People crowd in to this blissful ceremony.
‘Ulsavabali’ on the 8th day of the festival is also very important. ‘Gramapradakshinam’ ‘Pallivetta’ and ‘Arattu’are the major ceremonies of the 9th and 10th day. ‘Kodiyirakkam’ which marks the end of the festival
Vrishchika Ekadasi is another famous festival in Guruvayoor temple.
The eldest elephant among the temple’s herd pays homage to the legendary Guruvayoor Kesavan, the most celebrated elephant that belonged to the Guruvayoor temple. Also there will be ‘Chempai Sangeetholsavam’ for 11 days from the ‘Ekadasi’. 200 artists participate every day in the function.
‘Ashtamirohiny, Lord Krishna’s Birthday,is yet another famous festival of the temple. Devotees perform special poojas. Art programs and Dinner/sadya are other specials of the day.

Author : Smitha Atholi

One Of the Most Famous Mosque Festival: Pattambi Nercha

The Muslim community of Kerala cebrates Pattambi Nercha in Pattambi mosque. It’s a famous mosque festival. Pattambi mosque is situated 61 kms from Palakkad district. The festival commences in the first week of February. Nearly a hundred caprisond tuskers are lined up for the festival. The festival is held in the memory of Aloor Valiya Pookunjikoya Thangal who was a Muslim saint of South Malabar. The town glitters with a pageant sated with trqditional musical ensembles like Panchavadyam and Thayambakam at night. Various art forms are conducted on the banks of the river Bharathapuzha

Author : Adersh. BM

Malabar Festival : The Winder Festival In Calicut

As an example of the cultural tradition and secularist character of Malabar, the Kozhikode district authorities under the leadership of the district collector organize the festival Malabar Mahotsavam. This is celebrated in the winter every year since 1992. The festival gives the whole of Kozhikode city a festive look. Different arts and sports programs, exhibition sales etc are conducted as part of the festival. The main stage will be at Kozhikode beach. Different special stages are prepared for Hindustani / Carnatic music, fine arts, martial arts etc. Mananchira is another main stage of the event. The Government also extends its support for this event, aiming at tourism promotion. The festival leads to an assembly of people from Kozhikode and near by districts; Malappuram, Kannur, Wayanad etc.

author : Adarsh.BM

Navaratri: Evil Overpowered

Navaratri is one of the most auspicious festivals celebrated with more or less equal sentiments and fervor throughout the country. Celebrate the victory of Godes over evel.

It comes as the prestigious nine days festival culminating on the ninth day called Maha Navami. The term ‘navaratri’ literally means ‘nine nights’. The Mother goddess is worshipped in various names such as Durga , Chandika, Kaali, Amba and Bhavani throughout these nine days. She is also referred to as Devi or Shakti healing all miseries of life. The methods of celebrations vary from place to place. In Kerala all the temples, especially devi temples, become crowded with devotees offering prayers and poojas. Religious discourses are conducted regularly during these days.
The three different aspects of mother goddess is represented by three set of 3 days each. They are Durga-, Lakshmi and Saraswathy -the Goddess of power/energy, the Goddess of wealth and The Goddess of wisdom respectively. These three different aspects combine during these nine days of celebration, to give you all-round success in life. Mahanavami is also the day for ‘Ayudha pooja’ in kerala. Ayudha puja- means worship of weapons. All weapons or tools in regular use are kept in for special offerings and worship by all in every walk of life. Tools, in a broad sense include tools, vehicles, computers, cooking utensils etc. They abstain from regular use of the tool kept for worship on the day. Students worship their books and traders their tools. Children are happy that parents will not compel them for studying on this day as all books and tools are symbolically kept for sacred worship and pooja. The books and tools are retrieved on the next day after Mahanavami. This is the tenth day after the nine nights or Navaratri and is celebrated as Vijayadasami.

VIJAYA DASAMI
It is a remarkable day of high festivity and some legends say that it is the day of victory of Goddess Durga over the sinful demon Mahishasura. It is celebrated as ‘Dusserra’ in other southern states. Dus’, Dasami etc. denotes the number ten and implies that the festival is on the tenth day following Navaratri. The most important part of Vijaya dasami celebrations in Kerala is the ritual called ‘ Ezhuthiniruthu’. It is the ceremony of initiation of children to the world of letters. All major temples are the venue for this ceremony where eminent gurus lead the children to the world of letters by making them write ‘hari sree ganapathaye namah’ on rice.
Author:shaiju . p.m

Thiruvathira: The Charming Performance Of Women

‘THIRUVATHIRA’ enters with the coolness of celebration is the month of ‘DHANU’ (Thiruvathira Nakshathram) . Thiruvathira is essentially women’s festival. It is being celebrated for ages now but there is no clear theory about the origin of the festival.

THE FOUR MYTHS
It is believed that it is the day on which ‘GOPASTRIS’ conducted ‘KARTHYANI POOJA’ to get ‘SREE KRISNA’ (the god) as their husband. Keralites celebrate thiruvathira is the birth day of God ‘SREE PARAMESWARA’ . It is also believed that this festival is celebrated in commemoration of the death of ‘KAMADEVA’ the mythological god of love. According to another version, this is a remembarance of ‘SREE PARVATIS’ prayful fasting(vrathas) by seeking auspicious family life .

Conventions have it that women should wake up before their husbands and take a luxurious bath in the pond. It is a part of the celebration chewing betels , wearing garlands and wear Keralites dress ‘SILK SAREE’ and ‘ONNARA’( A special dhothi) . The other interesting facet of the festival is the enchanting ‘THIRUVATHIRAKKALI’ (Kaikottikali) dance performed by women on this day Women folk also amuse themselves by playing on the ‘OONJAl’ (swing) on this day. On the night of Thiruvathira women again perform Thiruvathirakkali is a circle at the centre of which is placed a lighted brass lamp. It is wonderful sight to watch women dancing to the rhythm of the song they sing and clapping their hands is unison with grace.
Women observe fast on Thiruvathira. Instead of rice meal they take preparations of ‘CHANA’ (penicum miliacerum) or wheat . other items of their food include plantains, fruits, tender coconuts, etc. It may be noted that the ‘ANDRA DARSHAN’ festival of Tamilnadu corresponds to Thiruvathira festival on kerala.

Author: Smitha. AT

The Festival of Southern Kailasam(Vikkathashtami)

Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is famous as southern KailasamIn threthayugaKharan, the demon, underwent hard meditation. He did this advised by Malyavan, the another demon. The Lord Shiva satisfied with Kharan and gave him blessings. Shiva also gave him SivalingasKharan handed over one of these Sivalingas to monk Vyagrapada for installation at Vaikom. This is legend. Also Shiva appeared with Parvathi in front of Vyagrapada. Vaikkathashtami celebration is commemoration of this day. Ashtami is on 12th day of flag hoisting of festival.
The main ritual of Ashtami Vilakku is procession of Udayanapurathappan. A big reception gives to him who killing Tharakasuran and Soorapadman. The temple ways and nearest places decorates as very beautiful in festival days. Other thrilling sights are plantain fruit, tender coconut, colourful umbrella, flower, traditional oil lamp and Ashtami Pandal with decorated lighting. Musical bands, art forms and fireworks attract the procession. People believe that the better time is before sunrise for prayer in front of Vaikkathappan.
The main offering of Vaikkathappan is breakfast. The important thing of Vaikom is great feast of breakfast. It starting seventh day of festival with 20 Para(a measurement pot) rice and ends Ashtami day with101 Para . The breakfast feast Oottupura,situated at north side of the temple. In this Oottupura ovens ash gives as Prasaadam in the temple.

Author: Sakeer.B.V

RAMADAN: The End Of Holy Fasting

Ramadan is a holy month of Muslims. On that time they indulge in fasting and prayer. Their fast start from morning to evening. During that month they are trying to abstain from fighting each other. They share love and sympathy. They believe that those who bore martyrdom on the Ramadan days will be occupied a place in paradise.
Features of celebrating Ramadan.
Ramadan is a moth of the Islamic lunar calendar. Feasting in Ramadan is the scarification of whole body. They do fasting by avoiding food, drinks, sex, and so on. They take it only on day time. In night they have delicious food. It may contain even special item of meals. It is for them to purify their soul, concentrate on God, and for self-abnegation
Author:Jayesh Kuryan

Rayranallur Climbing

Rayranallur hill was the residence of Naranath Branthan, the Indian counterpart of Greek mythology. It was a calm and quite located at Naduvattam near Pattambi,Palakad district in Kerala. It was at the Rayranallur hill that he received the vision of Devi on first day of the month of Thulaam.
Rayranallur hill is 500 feets high and has a width of 300 acres. That is the place where he got the vision. It became a temple without an Idol of Devi, but had the footprint of the Goddess forming a pond . From that day thise place is considered holy and people began to after worship there. The Pond has much water and it never runs dry. This water is used for ‘Pujas’ and ‘Archanas’.
The temple situated on the hill stretches for about six hectares. Thousands of people outside and inside Kerala visit the place to have blessings from the Devi on the first day of the month of Thulaam every year. They believe that climbing the hill on that day would provide them with many blessing such as marriage, getting children, cure from diseases etc.
The man who made the temple was NaranathBranthan. When he was meditating in ‘Branthachalam’, two kilometers west of the temple he saw the Goddess(Devi) swinging on a Banyan tree and he followed her. But no sooner had he reached near her than she disappeared leaving her foot print which turned in to a pond. When he saw the pond, he started ‘pujas’ there. Myth says that Naranth Branthan rolled up huge stone from the valley to the top and rolled them down laughing loudly. This is said to reflect his vision on the triviality and futility of human efforts.
Naranath Branthan was the offspring of the Brahmin who adored the court of Vikramadithya. He was one among the twelve children that Vararuchi had in a ‘Parayi’ (a woman who belonged to the low cast of ‘parayan’). ‘Parayi Petta Panthirukulam ’(the twelve branched clan of Parayi) is a strong current in Kerala folklore. We can the statue of Naranathu Branthan on the beautifull hill created by Architect Surendra Krishnan to the commemorate Naranathu Branthan

Author: Smitha Atholi

Attukal Pongala: The Great Festival of women

Aattukal is a place in the vicinity of Trivandrum city. Here in the ancient Bagavathy temple women celebrate Attukal pongala. It is a ten day long festival which starts on the Bharani day (karthika star) of the Malayalam month of Makaram-Kumbham (Feb-march). This will come to an end with the sacrificial offering known as ’Kuruthitharpanam’ at night. Aattukal Pongala mahotsavam takes place on the ninth day which is the most important day of the festival. Women from all over Kerala and Tamilnadu gather up in the surroundings of the temple to make offerings for the Goddess by cooking Pongala.

The Myth
It is believed that Goddess Attukalamma is the incarnation of Kannaki, the heroine of ‘Silappathikaram’ written by Tamil poet Ilango in second century AD. It is at Aattukal that the Goddess took rest on her northward journey from Madurai to Kodungallur.

Pongala consists of porridge of rice, sweet, brown molasses, coconut gratings, nuts and raisins. Thottam paattu a song about Bhagavathy will be sung continuously for nine days of the festival. The festival commences with the musical rendering of the story of the Goddess (Kannaki Charitam) during the "Kappukettu" ceremony. The story invokes the presence of Kodungallur Bhagavathy and the killing of the Pandyan King. The song will continue for all the nine days preceding Ponkala. The event of the Goddess distroying the Pandyan King is accompanied by much sound and wrath of the temple drums and "Vaykurava" by devotees, immediately followed by the lighting of the fireside for the preparation of the offering for the Goddess On the ninth day thousands of women gather in the temple with all set up for cooking Pongala. This will begin in the morning and by noon Pongala would be ready. Then the chief priest of the temple comes with the sword of Devi and blesses the ladies by sprinkling holy water and showering flowers. The blessed pongala will be taken by the believers to their home.
Aattukal pongala has found place in the Guinness book of records as the biggest women’s gathering in the world. In 2007, Pongala held on 3rd March have witnessed 2.5 million devotees.

Boys performs Kuthiyottam and girls, Thalapoli. Tese are the other charms of the festival. Young girls dressed in a traditional way hold thalapoli and starts early in the mornig with the belief that Goddess will shower blessings on them with beauty, wealth and happiness. Boys who are under 13 years make the offering of Kuthiyottam. The boys represent the wounded soldiers of the Goddess Mahishasura Mardhini. On the third day the temple priest gives Prasadam and boys start a seven day penance to purify their mind and body. For this they will go through rigorous physical and mental disciplines such as sleeping on the floor, eating under restricted diet, staying in the temple etc.

Taking Devi with procession
The diety is taken from Aattukal to the Sastha Temple at Manacaud , with divine procession. The procession is very colorful with floats, decorations etc. All through the road will reflect festive look. The Devi will be carried on caparisoned elephant displaying Alavattom and Venchamaram. Devotees will stand crowded on either side of the road welcoming the Devi. The procession reaches Sastha temple in the early hours of morning. There will be some poojas conducted here and the procession returns to Aattukal. Here the diety is received back in the sanctum with Deeparadhana. After the Deeparadhana the boys are relieved from the penance in an orderly manner.At night devotional songs will be rendered and is followed by ceremonial of the Kappu.
Through out the period of festival the whole of Trivandrum city in a festive mood. The surrounding places of Attukal will be occupied by small merchants, selling sweets, fancy items, toys etc.

Author: Adersh.BM