Paripally Gajamela
Paripally, 48 kms north of Thiruvananthapuram is noted for its Gajamela
or Elephant pageant. Over 50 elephants are taken out on a ritual
procession on the tenth day of the festival (February- March).
No
celebration in Kerala is complete without an elephant pageant. The
gentle giant has been revered like divinity and accorded the privilege
of escorting the numerous gods and goddesses of this land. Until a few
years ago many well-to-do families in Kerala owned an elephant which was
considered a member of the household.
Significance
Cultural
ost festivals of Kerala feature
spectacular elephant processions. The pooram and vela festivals are the
best occasions to watch the majestic tuskers in all their caparisoned
splendour. Colourfully decked up elephants numbering fifteen to hundred
or more line up on the temple premises. With mahouts atop them, holding
high tinselled silk parasols (muthukuda) and swaying white tufts
(venchamaram) and peacock feather fans (aalavattom) to the rhythm of the
temple orchestra.
General Information
Unique Features
Another unique practice at
this temple is that elephants are offered as Nercha (ritual offering to
the deity for prosperity) by the devotees. Cultural programmes are held
during the festival days. The temple is dedicated to the goddess
Bhadrakaali.
Prime Attractions of Trivandrum
(Thiruvananthapuram)
The Aaranmula Boat Race is staged each year in the
scenic village of Aaranmula in August/ September. This river carnival is
part of the Aaranmula Temple festival.
more..
Varkala is a sea side resort, as well as an important
Hindu centre of pilgrimage. High cliffs with rich mineral springs rise
majestically from the coastline. The 2,000 year old Janardana Swamy
Temple and the Nature Centre are the two main attractions here
more..
