KOLLAD "The land of small things": August 2012

KOLLAD | A Captivating Land

Kerala’s towns are far removed from big-city concrete jungles, and the dividing line between urban and rural is fine indeed, with green avenues and placid backwaters gracing the busiest cites, and tarred roads and public schools evident in smallest villages.

Palm-fringed river side, endless paddy fields, rolling hills, back waters that snake past tiled-roof house and spotless village roads: Kollad is a land of unmatched beauty. Malayali society is unique, boasting a highly literate population, a sex ratio favoring women, matriarchal sub-societies and a people unfettered by the divisions of case and creed. Diverse religions live here in peaceful amicability, each enriching the state with its customs and practices. Add vibrant arts and colorful festivals, ancient shrines and delectable cuisine, and Kollad is a must stop destination.

Saturday, August 11, 2012

Kottayam-pakal pooram|Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple Arattu Utsavam

Thirunakkara Arattu Utsavam

Kerala has always been quoted God’s own country; its lush green surroundings give a cool and soothing sight to everyone. There is harmony among all the communities of the state. Its rich culture and heritage is a pleasure.

Kerala is the land of high festivities and cheer. Many festivals are celebrated in this beautiful land. One of the famous temple festivals, Thirunakkara arattu is celebrated at Thirunakkara Mahaeva Temple located in the heart of Kottayam district of Kerala. Mahadeva is the presiding deity of the temple. The passionate celebration continues for ten days and concludes with the bathing ceremony of lord Mahadeva called ‘ARATTU’. A string of nine majestically ornamented and decorated elephants accompany the idol of the lord Mahadeva for bathing in the noon. They are accompanied by drummers and dancing flock of people.

The mystic traditional dance of Kerala, Kathakali forms an important part of the celebrations. The beautifully and colourfully dressed and masked Kathakali dancers perform all night long on third and fourth night.

Other dances like Mayilattom (peacock dance), Velakali and motif processions are also showcased in the temple compound.The fêted Mahadeva Temple is situated on the Thirunakkara Hill of the Kottayam town and is one of the important Shiva temples famous for its historical importance, antiquity, sanctity and also for its magnificent traditional architecture. The grand festival "Arattu Utsavam" starts from the 1st day of Meenam month of Malyalam calendar. That falls in March-April of Gregorian calendar.

Thousands of people, irrespective of caste or creed attend this festival.