Indian is famous for its fairs and festivals. The fairs and festivals in India at every state in India are celebrated with equal gusto. Plan your journey to Kerala during the festive time.
Guruvayur temple in Kerala is the abode of 'Guruvayurappan' (Srikrishnan). This temple is very famous through out India and celebrates all the festivals of Kerala with great pomp and gaiety. Ulsavam, Vishu, Ashtami Rohini, Mandalam, Ekadasi, Ashtami Rohini, Kuchela's Day, Chembai music festival and Narayaneeyam day are some of the festivals celebrated at Guruvayur temple. Ulsavam is the Guruvayur Festival that is celebrated with great zeal. Features:
In the beginning of the festival, the temple flag is hoisted atop the flagstaff (Dwajastambham) about 70 feet high. On the 1st day, an elephant race is held. The next 6 days, devotees can witness elephant processions in the morning, afternoon and night. In the morning, there is the Sribhuta Bali (offering of oblation at various altars). There are also various cultural programs. On the 8th day, during 'Utsavabali' (from 10 am to 4 pm) oblations are offered to the Lord's lieutenants. A sumptuous feast then awaits the devotees. Pallivetta or the hunting expedition of the Lord takes place on the 9th day. This hunt is symbolic of the destruction of Kama (desire), Krodha (anger) and other such evils that plague us in our life. After that the Lord's idol is takan to the Rudratheertha (temple pond) for Aarattu, amidst the chanting of mantras. Thousands of devotees also take the dip, chanting the Lord's name to wash off their sins. Then at noon, Pooja (which takes place at night only on this day) is held at the Bhagavati shrine. Finally, the Lord returns to the sanctum sanctorum after 11 circumambulations. The temple flag is then lowered signifying the end of the festival. Season: Guruvayur temple - Ulsavam is conducted in the month of Kumbha, i.e., in February or March and lasts for 10 days. How to Reach
By Air -
There are three airports in the state - Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode. Thiruvananthapuram is also an international airport, connecting the state to many places in India and the world.
By Rail -
There are around 200 railway stations in Kerala connecting most of the places in the state to places in the other parts of India and inside the state. Long-distance express trains connect important places in the state to places outside Kerala like Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai and Kolkata.
By Road -
An extensive network of metallic roads connects most of the places in the state.
Make your holiday memorable as you join the Ulsavam- Guruvayur Festival, Kerala. |
