Festivals in Kerala - Representing States Religious and Cultural Durability

By: Ajay Kumar | Mar 29 2012 | 521 words | 989 hits

Kerala faithfully follows its traditional lifestyle and the rites of its festivals, which is the solid identity of the state. Vibrant music & dance performances, embellished elephants and sensational & creative fireworks can easily be seen here throughout the year, reflecting the enthusiasm and festive mood of Kerala people. Following are some popular festivals celebrated by this South Indian state.

Onam Festival: Onam is the most popular festival of Kerala celebrated usually at the end of August or the beginning of September every year. This 10-days long festival is lionized in honor of the great benevolent king ‘Mahabali' who once impressed the Lord Vishnu by his devotion and humility. Kerala people organize colorful events on the sacred Pampa River as a part of traditional celebration. They buy new cloths, cook delicious meals and perform various folk dances and music. The last day of the festival is called ‘Thiruonam' that is the main day for celebration.

Thrissur Pooram: This temple festival is truly splendid and one of the most enchanting celebrations held in Kerala. It was first celebrated by Sakthan Thampuran - the Maharaja of quondam Kochi state. According to Malayalam calendar, Thrissur Pooram is celebrated in Medom month that usually falls in April or May. People enjoy delicious Kerala cuisines along with several cultural programs and artistic performance. Apart from that, processions from Krishana Temple and Devi temple are other astounding elements of this fest. The scene of parade at the Vadakumnatha Temple is dazzlingly beautiful and mesmerizing.

Aranmula Boat Race: This event is held at Pampa River in Aranmula near to a temple dedicated to God God krishna and Arjuna. Also known as ‘Kerala Boat festival', it's held annually in the month of August/September. Wonderful beauty of Pampa River coupled with decorated snake boats ridden by traditionally attired oarsmen; the whole scene of the event is really splendid. This boat race event lasts for seven days and is participated by hundreds of riders. A huge crowd from diffrenet parts of the country comes here to encourage their players.

Nehru Trophy Boat Race: Kerala is a state of backwaters and rivers, so no wonder if many of its festivals are associated with water. The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is kind of boating competition held at Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha. The race is conducted on the second Saturday of August every year. In 1952, Mr. Jawaharlal Nehru, the first prime minister of India, became the part of this snake-boat race, and gave a rolling trophy to the winner. After that, this event was given the name as ‘Nehru Trophy Boat Race'. Thousands of people flock to the destination to be evidence of this amazing bat race.

Apart from that, Kani-Kanal, Trikartika, Maha Shiv Ratri and Thiruvathira are also some must-see festivals of Kerala. So next time when you plan a holiday or a honeymoon in Kerala, it would be great to plan it accompanied with one of the above mentioned fests. This would give you a chance to see amazing traditions & cultures of the state. Nowadays, planning for holiday in Kerala has become a child's play as a variety of Kerala tour packages are available online.

 

About author:
Author is associated with Hungry Bags, a leading travel website that offers best holiday in Kerala to the visitors and provides customized Kerala holiday package, and exclusive packages for honeymoon in Kerala for newlywed couples within budget prices.