Festivals - Kerala

Kerala can be described as the land of festivals. Characteristics of these festivals range from religious nature to secular, mythical, connected with man's attitude towards nature, harvest. Whatever be the nature or characteristic of the festival, Keralites have given them a colour and tenor of their own to them.

Though Kerala is cut off from the rest of India by the Western Ghats, history has made the state a land of mixed culture and develop a cosmopolitan outlook. The existence of natural Ports and the availability of various Spices attracted traders from all over the world even centuries ago. History points to trade relations of the region with Portugal, Arabs, Egypt, China. The various rulers of the region provided them with all possible assistance not only to carry out trade but also to settle down and practice their religion. The State has also been home to various settlements from other parts of India also. The influence of all these can be seen across the State and also in the festivals celebrated here. Foreign settlements can be found across the State even today.

Festivals celebrated in the State include Onam - the National Festival of Kerala, Vishu, Maha Sivarathri, Navarathri, Thiruvathira, Ashtami Rohini, Deepavali - the Hindu religious festivals, Christmas & Easter - the Christian religious festivals, Miladi Sherif, Muharram, Ramadan, Bakrid - the Muslim religious festivals.

ONAM

The major festival celebrated in Kerala by all sections of people for over centuries is Onam. Onam, the national festival of Kerala, falls on the Thiruvonam day of first Malayalam month, Chingom. Legends describe Kerala as the land of peace and prosperity under the rule of King Mahabali, a celebrated emperor of the Asuras (demons). The rule of Mahabali has been described the golden age in the history of the State. Folk song describing the glory of the period are sung by all even today. 'Maveli Nadu Vanidum Kaalam Malokarellam Onnu Pole, Kallavum Illa, Chatiyum Illa, Ellolam Illa Poli Vachanam'.

When King Mahabali ruled, all men were considered equal, leading a life of Happiness, with no Dishonesty, Deceiving, False Utterance, no Unfair practice and in Perfect Harmony - goes the meaning of the Verse. In short the administration of the State during that time was ideal one. But this golden age had a tragic end. By the designs of the jealous Gods, the glorious reign of the Asura emperor came to an end with Vamana (one of the incarnation of Lord Vishnu) expelling Mahabali from his Kingdom. But on the request of the King and his grateful subjects, King Mahabali is permitted to visit his land once in a year. The time for his annual visit is the Thiruvonam day of the Chingom (from mid August - mid September). The whole state of Kerala prepare and get ready on the Onam day to receive their King.

Whatever be the truth behind this legend, Onam, for the last several centuries has been a grand harvest festival. All Keralites celebrate Onam irrespective of their religion or caste and in whichever corner of the world they be. And many Keralites in other places make it a point to visit their ancestral home for the festival.

The preparations for Onam begin 10 days before Thiruvonam day, on Atham day. Athapookkalam (or Floral decorations) are made on the front yard of every house hold from Atham day marking the beginning of the festival. For the next 10 days, till Thiruvonam, floral decoration are prepared. The famous 'Athachamayam' is unique to the erstwhile Kochi Kingdom. Thripunithura in Ernakulam district of the State, which was the headquarters of the Kingdom, stages the Atham celebrations every year.

There are many stories connected to the origin of 'Athachamayam'. One version is that, 'Athachamayam', was the triumphant march of the Maharaja of Kochi from Tripunithura to Vamana Temple at Thrikkakara in Ernakulam district. This march was looked upon in different views, from a military venture to show off the strength of the Kingdom and its pomp, to a mere celebration of Onam, the festival of peace and equity and a remembrance of the days when everything was in abundance. The Maharaja gave 'darshan' to his citizens on this day. Those were the days when Secularism was a way of life. This can be seen in certain gestures of the period. Priest of the Church at Karingachira near Tripunithura, Champil Arayan, Netoor Thangal would greet the Maharaja on the occasion.

With India attaining Independence in 1947, and Kochi Kingdom merging with Travancore and Malabar areas to form the State of Kerala, 'Athachamayam' retreated to memories of the people. And with the Maharaja also distancing himself from all festivities, the festive season remained in memories. But people of Tripunithura could not remain without the festival for long. Somewhere in the 1960s the same was revived without the Maharaja and with only the people. This was achieved under the able leadership of the former Cultural Minister Late Shri. T.K. Ramakrishnan. The festival is now conducted regularly under Athagosham Committee and Tripunithura Municipal Council, with support from local people.

Main attraction of the procession in connection with the festival is the pageants, depicting various things, from modern and ancient art forms, the State's history and heritage, floats, folk dances to current social issues. It goes in a procession through the Thripunithura area. People from various parts of the State and foreigners throng the area to have a glimpse of the same. Various competitions and entertainment programs are also held part of the festival nowadays.

The tenth day to Atham star comes Thiruvonam. Athapookkalam (or Floral decorations), Grand Feast (Onam Sadhya), Boat Race (Vallamkali) form the major attractions of the day. Earlier flowers for arranging Athapookkalam were acquired from one's own house and neighbourhood. But these days flowers are bought from outside. Children, having holidays for Onam, take a great part in arranging the same. A grand Athapookkalam is arranged on the Thiruvonam day. An idol of Onathappan made of clay is placed on the middle of the decoration.

On the Thiruvonam day, every member of the family bathes and offers worship in temples early in the morning wearing new garments. The head of the family presents 'Onakkodi' (new clothes for Onam) to all family members and servants. After temple visit, preparations are made for the Grand Feast. 64 types of curries and several varieties of payasam (pudding) are to be included in the feast. All the four tastes - Sweet, Sour, Salty and Bitter comes in the feast prepared. Also ingredients which accelerate digestion are also included in the food prepared. The food is served on Plantain leaves.

After the feast sports and games, are arranged in which both men and women of all ages participate. Ancient games as Pulikkali, Karadikkali, Ball games, Cards and Chess form the favourites of men. Women find pleasure in Thiruvathirikali, Oonjalattom, Thumbithullal, Kaikottikali etc. Boat races attract thousands of people.

Modern day celebrations of Onam has become one involving society. Athapookkalam competition are arranged in Educational Institutions, Offices, Residential areas, and other Social Institutions during Onam. Also clubs and other institutions arrange for common celebration of the festival. Many participate, which freshen their mind, bringing out the artistic talent in them. Keralites, who are not able to make it home for the festival, celebrate Onam in the place of their dwelling together with other Kerala families and some organise celebrations at a common place to have a feeling of being at home.

Of late, Kerala Government has taken initiative to celebrate Onam as Tourist Festival. Lots of foreigners visit the State during Onam Festival and arrangements are made so that they have a taste of the Festivals and Culture of the State. Various cultural forms both old and new are arranged in all important towns of the State for the convenience of the tourists. In total, the whole State wears a festive and colourful look.

VISHU

Next to Onam, Vishu is the widely celebrated festival. Vishu falls on the first day of Malayalam month, Medam. Though, purely a harvest festival and not connected with any religion, Vishu is celebrated only in Hindu house-holds. The festival is also free from the usual merry-making and pomp associated with other festivals. Vishu is the only festival with an unchangeable day, whereas other festivals are determined according to the lunar asterisms on which they fall.

The day has more prominence on the life of Keralites. Vishu Kani (omen), Kaineetom (handsel) are important on Vishu day. It is believed that the fortunes for the year depend upon the nature of the object one sees first on Vishu day. Vishu Kani is prepared for the day with auspicious things the previous evening in pooja room. In a circular bell-metal vessel known as 'Uruli', raw rice is filled. Over it a folded newly washed cloth is spread. Betel nuts over Betel leaves, flowers of Konna tree (Cassia Fistula), a Grandha (book of palm leaves), Coins, Jewellery or Gold coins are placed over the cloth in the vessel. Picture of Lord Krishna and a Mirror is kept before the vessel. Clean Brass lamp with oil and wicks for lighting the next day is placed before the vessel. A golden coloured cucumber, Two coconut halves, Jack fruit, which is found in abundance during the period, Mango, and certain locally available vegetables are arranged on the sides of the vessel.

Early in the morning of Vishu, one of the elder members of the house, usually the eldest female member, wakes up and lights the lamp and looks at 'Kani' arranged. This is called 'Kani Kanal' (first sight of the day). She then wakes up other members, one after another and Kani is shown to everyone of them taking particular care not to allow anyone to look at other things by any chance. Even the cattle in the house-hold are given this privilege, as the Kani is taken to the cattle-shed and placed before them to have a look.

The members then have a bath and are given 'Kaineetom' by the eldest member of the family. Earlier days silver coins were given, now various denominations of Indian currency is given as 'Kaineetom'. Everyone visit temple in the morning. After this children have fun with fire crackers. A moderate and elegant feast is arranged for lunch which family members have together.

MAHA SIVARATHRI

The Maha Sivarathri or Sivarathri as generally known is a Hindu religious festival. According to Sivapurana, it falls on the Krishna Chaturdasi day or Amavasi day (14th day during the waning of the moon) in the Malayalam month of Kumbhom (from mid February - mid March). The festival is to commemorate the day on which Lord Siva protected the world from a total annihilation by drinking the deadly Kaalakoodam poison, which came out while churning the Palazhi lake. So the day is considered a very important day for fast and worship of Lord Siva. Keralites offer Bali (remembering fore-fathers) on this day, which many do without fail.

Fasting is very important on the day for the Hindus. While some don't have any food at all for the whole day, some others have only one meal. Temples devoted to Lord Siva witness huge crowds during the day. Devotees throng the temple and chant prayers of Siva the whole night. Early next morning people bath and worship the Lord.

Say Sivarathri, Aluva comes to the mind of Keralites. Aluva town is situated in Ernakulam district in Kerala. This is the only place in Kerala where the festival is celebrated in a grand scale. The Sivarathri celebration at the small Siva temple at Aluva on the banks of Periyar river is attended by a huge number of devotees, usually running to thousands. The idol (Lingam) of Lord Siva arises out of the sand on the bank of the river. The river bank wears a festive look during the night with shows, dances, lots of stalls putting up varieties of items for sale.

After observing Sivarathri rites, most pilgrims offer Bali to their ancestors in the morning.

NAVARATHRI

Navarathri festival dedicated to Devi or Goddess, is a festival which is celebrated all over India. The mode of celebration differs in each region in the country. Navarathri festival is celebrated during the first nine days in the bright half of Aswina month, which usually falls in September-October month. Goddesses Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswathi are worshipped for 3 days each during the period. Saraswathi Puja and Ayudha Puja, which comes during Navarathri are important for the Keralites.

The last 2 days of the festival called Durgashtami, Mahanavami and the 10th day called Vijayadasami are the important days of the festival. On the Durgashami day, Pooja Vaipu is performed. In the temples or pooja rooms of house holds Books and Grandhas are arranged before the image of Goddess Saraswathi, worshipped as the Goddess of Learning. Implements used (as pen) and tools used by many for their livelihood are also kept aside. Those in art and music field keep their instruments also for Pooja. This is Pooja Vaipu. Pooja is performed to the Goddess, after which studies and work are suspended till Vijayadasami day. The following Mahanavami day is totally devoted on worshipping the Goddess.

On the Vijayadasami day after Pooja in the morning, the books and tools are taken and this is called Pooja Eduppu. Students take back their books and commence learning process before the Goddess. Others resume work on the auspicious day. Every member of the family write the alphabets and read from sacred books. Another importance of the day is the Vidyarambaham (entrance of a child to the world of letters) ceremony. Many temples make arrangements for the same. Kids in the age group of 2-3 years are initiated to the world of letters by Priests of temples or their Fathers. Only after this ceremony kids are entitled to read or write. Sitting on the lap of the person who initiates them to the world of letters, Kids are made to write 'Om Harisree Ganapathaye Namaha' first on rice and then on sand.

The implements and instruments kept for Pooja are taken after Pooja, and some work or practice is done with them. Apart from this many children who like to enter the world of art and music start on this auspicious day after taking blessings from their Guru.

THIRUVATHIRA

Thiruvathira is purely a festival of the Hindu women folk. It falls on the Thiruvathira star of the fifth Malayalam month, Dhanu (mid December - mid January). The festival commemorates the death of Kamadeva, the cupid of Hindu mythology. Women on this day worship Lord Shiva and pray for conjugal harmony and marital bliss. The dance form Thiruvathirakkali widely prevalent is associated with this festival with women performing this on the day.

Though the festival is celebrated over the ages there is no clear theory about its origin. Some celebrate the festival as Thiruvathira is the birth star of Lord Shiva. Women remain sleepless the night before Thiruvathira chanting prayers of Lord Shiva. Early in the morning they take bath and visit Siva temple. On this day women observe fast. Instead of the rice meal, they have Thiruvathira Puzhukku which is prepared with certain type of vegetables. At night women perform Thiruvathirakkali around a lighted brass lamp.

ASHTAMI ROHINI

Ashtami Rohini is another festival widely celebrated among the Hindus. The day is the birth of Lord Krishna. Ashtami Rohini or Janmashtami falls in the first Malayalam month Chingom (mid August - mid September) on Rohini star and Ashtami day, the eight quart of the moon. As Lord Krishna is said to have born at mid night, many stay awake till midnight and do Pujas at midnight. Various Nivedya (offerings to God) which include the Lord's favourite Palpayasam and Appam, will be prepared for the Lord which devotees partake only after it has been offered to the Lord.

Krishna temples are decorated for the festival. Devotees in large numbers throng the temples. Of late, Janmashtami processions are taken out in various parts of the State. Kids dressed up as Krishna and Radha take part in the processions.

DEEPAVALI

Deepavali or the festival of lights is another festival celebrated throughout India by Hindus. The way of celebrating the festival and theory behind the celebration of the same differ in various region of the country. Deepavali falls on the day preceding the New Moon in Malayalam month Thulam (mid October - mid November). The festival is celebrated in South India commemorating the destruction of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna. In North India the festival is celebrated commemorating the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana. Also, merchants and others in commerce area, open new accounts (ie they take new ledgers or log books) during the festival. At the time of the festival the sun is in the house of Thulam (Libra, ie the scales) which signifies commerce, and hence the association of Deepavali with merchants and the Goddess of wealth.

On the Deepavali day, all members of the house have Oil bath and wear new Clothes before sunrise. Sweets are given to all and then burst crackers. In many households in South India, a preparation of dry ginger and jaggery is consumed after the oil bath. In the evening also crackers are burst and certain households light up their houses with lamps. The people of Dwaraka greeted Lord Krishna on his arrival after the destruction of demon with lights. This is the how illumination became part of the festival.

THRIKARTHIKA

Thrikarthika is another festival celebrated by the women-folk. The festival comes on Karthika star of Malayalam month Vrischikam (mid November - mid December).

Towards dawn, the whole house and premises are lighted with oil lamps and special z

Thrikarthiaka
This festival is celebrated in the month of Vrischikam (Nov -Dec). Display of light in the evening is a unique part of the festival.

CHRISTMAS

Christmas, the major festival of Christians all over the world, is the birth day of Jesus. This falls on 25th December. Various customs and ceremonies are there in the celebration. Christmas tree, Christmas Star, the Santa Claus, Christmas cake, Gifts, Carols all have equal significance in the celebration, involving the children, elder ones and the old alike.

Christian community in Kerala celebrate the festival in all its forms. The State wears a festive look from the beginning of December itself, much before the arrival of the festival. Most shops fill their shelves with stars and all that required for decorating Christmas trees. Way side shops are not behind in any way, thus illuminating most shopping areas. Celebration starts with hanging stars outside households days before Christmas. Preparation of wine, another feature of the festival, also start much earlier. Making of Christmas tree, a practise not older than 60 years in Kerala, and setting the miniature of the stable where Jesus was born in Bethlehem, start 2-3 days before. These are set outside the house and decorated with small Stars, Bells, Gifts, Lights. At night these are lit and wears a spectacular look. Now a days non-Christian house holds also arrange Christmas trees and hang stars. Some office and corporates also join celebration with Christmas trees these days. Christmas Carols and Santa Claus, another attractive feature of the festival, visit house holds 2-3 nights before. Children are attracted by these and gifts are given to children by Santa Claus.

Christmas cake is prepared in advance. Though various shops sell varieties of cakes, many house holds prefer preparing the same at home. Priests hold mid night mass in Churches and devotees attend the same. Churches are also well-lit and decorated for the festival. Just before the mass, an image of the Child is brought by the priest, preceded by rows of children holding lighted candles that are placed in the crib. On Christmas day, an elaborate lunch is prepared with rare delicacies and various meat forms. Like Onam, Christmas also brings together family members, out of native place for livelihood.

EASTER

Easter is the oldest and important festival of Christians. The festival is associated with Resurrection of Jesus. The celebration differ from Christmas in various ways. A Preparatory season to precede Easter, Holy Week and followed by festive season form part of the festival. In connection with the observance of Easter, four distinct periods are there - Lent, Holy Week, Octave of Easter, Paschal season. Festival starts with Lent which is the 40 preparatory penitential days. During these days Christians remain on vegetarian diet. No auspicious ceremony in conducted during this period.

The Holy Week include the Thursday. Good Friday, Saturday and Sunday (Easter day). On Holy Thursday, the Last Supper ceremony and the rite of pascal bread is held in the evening. After supper, the 'cross cake' is brought out and cut into pieces. A piece is broken, dipped into sauce and handed over to each member of the family in due order. Next day is the Good Friday, a day of grief when churches are empty and dark. Services are held in the after noon. Most churces serve a bitter drink prepared from leaves, vinegar etc to taste after the service. Holy Saturday is a day of mourning and wailing. Total silence reigns the church from morning to dusk. But by 10 at night the church is full to observe the Easter Vigil. In the gloom which envelops the church, new fire is struck from flint and blesses. A big candle is then consecrated and from this many candles are lighted indicating the resurrection. Church bells ring, music fills the air and lights flood the hall. All attend the mid night mass. Easter Sunday is a quiet day and the celebrations more spiritual. On Easter day, grand dinner is arranged at all house holds, breaking the vegetarian diet. Thus the observance festival freshens the mind and the body.

MILADI SHERIF

Miladi Sherif is celebrated world wide by Muslims commemorating the birth of Mohammed on 20th April, 571 A.D, the Prophet of Islam. Muslims in the State celebrate the festival in a more religious manner.

Reading the short biography of the Prophet, commonly known as 'Maulod', written both in verse and prose in Arabic, is the common ritual of the day. Of late, night lectures are organised during the first 12 days of the month. Muslim Ulemas enlighten the people on various aspects of the life of the Prophet through their discourses.

In certain parts of the State celebration include large scale feeding of the poor. Another recent feature added to the festival is the colourful procession taken out through the towns reciting Thakbir. These processions converge at some central place. Public meetings are held then, which is addressed by well-known speakers who deals with the various aspects of the Prophet's life. Such meetings are often attended largely by non-Muslims also.

BAKRID

Bakrid, also called Idul-Azha or Baqri Id, is the festival of sacrifice observed by Muslims all over the world. The festival falls on the 10th day of Dhu'l-Hijja, the last month of the lunar year. The festival is celebrated to commemorate Abraham's willingness to offer his only son, Ishmael as sacrifice at God's command. While the pilgrims are making their sacrifices at Mina, the ceremony is observed simultaneously by Muslims everywhere. Muslims in this part of the world also celebrate the festival with the spirit of sacrifice and festivity. Many pilgrims offer their sacrifices at Mina.

The sacrifice offered on the day is divided into three portions, one portion for household consumption, another for friends and relatives and the third for the poor and needy. The animal sacrifice can be offered on the first day of the festival or any time later till the afternoon of the third day. From the morning of the ninth day of the month ie a day before the festival, till the afternoon prayer of the fourteenth day, special prayers and glory of God is recited after every prayer.

The day dawns with the resounding of Takbir (or Allahu Akbar), the declaration that God is great. Every member of the house hold put on new dress and reciting Takbir, proceed to Id-Gah which is a wide open space set apart for public prayers. Congregational prayer led by Imam is held then. After the prayer, the leader address the devotees, exhorting them to be conscious of their duties towards and God and follow the example of Abraham. The gathering then exchange greetings and hug each other, expressing affection.

Back home, a hearty feast is prepared. Social visits, singing and dancing by women are done after the feast. In a whole, a festive mood can be seen in Muslim house holds during the festival. Another specialty of the celebration in Kerala is arranging communal meetings. Various people from all walks of life and practising different religion participate in this. This helps develop healthy relationship with people of other community, tolerance and mutual understanding.

MUHARRAM

Muharram or the forbidden month is the opening month of the Hijra year. The 10th day of the month is celebrated as Muharram all over the world. Various happenings on the history of human being is associated with this day. It was on this day that God is believed to have created Adam and Eve, the Pharaoh of Egypt and his countrymen were drowned in the Red Sea by God's will. It was on this day that Imman Hussain, the grandson of the Prophet and his men met their agonising end at Kerala in 680 A.D. It is believed that the Prophet joined the Muslims to observe fast on the ninth and tenth day of Muharram month. It was to commemorate the victory of the Jews over Pharaoh that fasting is observed these days. While Shia Muslims celebrate Muharram, Sunni Muslims do not, but the devout Muslims among them observe fast.

Pulikali or Tiger dance is a part of the celebration in Kerala. The whole body is painted in a way so as to bring out the appearance of a tiger. With this appearance, wearing mask of tiger face, Muslims parade through the streets playing, dancing and mimicking a tiger. This is done to idealise the valour of Hussain.

ID-UL-FITR

Id-ul-Fitr, of late known as Ramadan as it falls in the month of Ramadan, is another major festival of the Muslims. Ramadan is the 9th month of the lunar year. During this month, Muslims observe fast, giving up all kinds of food and drinks during day time. At sunset, fast is broken by consuming liquid food. This is called 'Nombu Thura' or breaking the fast, in Kerala. At night after dinner, more time is spend on devotion and prayer. Purification of the body and soul is the main aim of this observance.

When the crescent appears on the western horizon heralding the end of the month of fasting, it marks the beginning of the Id-ul-Fitr festival. The Id-ul-Fitr festival starts with the commencement of the first day of the month of `Shawwl'. Celebration starts with the distribution of food materials to the poor and the needy. Any person who holds food in excess of the day's need must necessarily make his contribution in accordance with the scales prescribed by Islam.

The above given festivals are the important ones celebrated by people of Kerala. The list of festivals celebrated in this part of the world is long. Apart from the above mentioned ones, many festivals are celebrated exclusively in certain parts of the State.                     ....... Click for more festivals.......