Vrischikotsavam, said to be the harbinger of temple festivities in central Kerala, will begin at the Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple in Tripunithura on Tuesday.
This time around, the Poornathrayeesa Seva Sangham, that conducts the temple festivities, has made elaborate arrangements for the welfare of elephants taking part in the temple festivities by setting up a top cover in most part of the temple premises.
Jayan Mangayil, president of the Seva Sangham, told The Hindu , that the shelter of the same height of the elephant shelter (Anapandal) extending up to the western gate will help people enjoy the melam without getting a sun-stroke. Another shelter extends from the Nadapura at eastern gate of the temple to the north-east corner. The temple premises in front of the oottupura will be devoid of shelter. . Participation of 15 elephants is the hallmark of the festival. The festival flag will be hoisted at 7 p.m. though the rituals will begin from 6.30 a.m. Minister K. Babu will inaugurate the cultural festival at 7.30 p.m. Kathakali artiste RLV Damodaran Pisharody, percussion artists Kelath Aravindakhan and Cheriath Thangu Marar will be honoured on the occasion.
The Anachamayam (decorations used on the elephants) for the festivities were on display on Monday.
