Temple boards threaten to curtail Thrissur Pooram

Artisans preparing colourful umbrellas to be used during Pooram. Kudamattom (changing of parasols), a friendly competition, is one of the most attractive features of the festivities. File photo

All eyes are on the Kerala High Court, as Thursday’s hearing of the case on fireworks display will decide the fate of the Thrissur Pooram festival.

The High Court’s interim order banning high-decibel fireworks between sunset and sunrise, on a petition filed by Justice V. Chidambaresh, has raised concerns over the conduct of the festival on April 17 and 18.

The Thiruvambady and Paramekkavu Devaswoms, the main participants of Thrissur Pooram, have threatened to limit the celebrations to rituals if they have to implement the court’s order.

Court order will be enforced, say officials

As Thrissur Collector V. Ratheeshan and the city police said they would implement the court order strictly, the Devaswoms threatened to limit the festival to a procession with just one elephant if they were not allowed to conduct fireworks.

A joint committee of the Devaswoms passed a resolution on Tuesday night to cancel the events such as Kudamattom and other processions.

Expressing solidarity with the Devaswoms, the festival co-ordination committees of eight other participating temples have also decided to limit the celebrations.

The High Court on Tuesday ordered strict enforcement of provisions of the Explosives Rules 2008, restricting the use of high-decibel crackers between sunset and sunrise.

Meanwhile, the Festival Co-ordination Committee will observe a fast at Thekke Gopura Nada in Thekkinkadu Maidan, alleging a conspiracy against conduct of Pooram.