Kerala - Transport

- Airports

1. Trivandrum International Airport - TRV ( Trivandrum, Kerala).

2. Cochin International Airport - COK ( Cochin, Kerala ).

3. Calicut International Airport - CCJ ( Calicut, Kerala )

- Kerala is well connected with the rail services.

  - Trains are available from Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai , Delhi and from all major cities of India.

- Public road transportation system is very good in Kerala 

Kerala - Ayurveda

Ayurveda - harmony of body, mind and soul 

Sprouted in the pristine land of India some 5000 years ago, Ayurveda, the science of life and longevity, is the oldest healthcare system in the world and it combines the profound thoughts of medicine and philosophy. Since then Ayurveda has stood for the wholesome physical, mental and spiritual growth of humanity around the world. Today, it's a unique, indispensable branch of medicine, a complete naturalistic system that depends on the diagnosis of your body's humours - vata, pitta and kapha - to achieve the right balance. 

Kerala, the Land of Ayurveda 

Kerala possesses an unbroken tradition of Ayurveda that has surpassed the many invasions and intrusions both foreign and native. For hundreds of years the Ayurveda Vaidyas (traditional practitioners of Ayurveda) were almost the only access for people seeking healing from every kind of disease in Kerala. The legendary eight families of Vaidyas (Ashta vaidyas) and their successors treated the entire state for centuries. Unlike the other Indian states the status of Ayurveda in Kerala is not alternative but mainstream. In fact, today, Kerala is the only State in India which practices this system of medicine with absolute dedication. 



Being the only resort of treatment for the people, the Vaidyars of Kerala were challenged to interpret the theories of Ayurveda and adapt them actively into effective healing systems in everyday life. Thus almost all the contemporary procedures and protocols of Ayurveda have evolved in and around Kerala. 

The Boons of Nature

Its equable climate, natural abundance of forests and the cool monsoon season are best suited for Ayurveda's curative and restorative packages. Kerala is perhaps one of the few places on earth where a temperature of 24-28 degrees is maintained during a period of continuous rain. This prevalence of moisture in the air and on the surface of the skin makes it the ideal place for natural medicines to work at their highest levels of potency. The land is also blessed with innumerous medicinal plants and provides the continuity and consistency of Ayurveda medicines needed for effective treatment procedures. The same herbs with the same potency are available year after year across every season. The rich alkaloid content of the soil enhances the intensity and potency of many Ayurvedic medicines when compared to places with different soil constitution. 

The Advantages of Ayurveda in Kerala 

Ashtangahridayam, the practical, user friendly interpretation of Ayurveda, compiled by the great Vagbata is seldom used anywhere in the world as it is extensively done in Kerala. The Vaidyars of Kerala are proficient in this most contemporary treatise of Ayurveda which many scholars consider an advancement over the earlier samhitas of Charaka and Sushruta, the pioneers of Ayurveda. It is in Kerala that Kashaya Chikitsa (treatment with concoction) has become a standardised protocol involving hundreds of Kashayams that were scientifically classified and organised according to various treatment needs. Keralite Vaidyars where the first to focus on the anti oxidant properties of Abayangam leading to the profusion of kizhis. The largest number of Ayurveda colleges and the largest number of practitioners in comparison to any place in the world has led to a tradition of Ayurveda research in a scientific manner in Kerala. 

Ayurveda as a lifestyle 

In Kerala Ayurveda is not just a healthcare system but it is a part and parcel of every aspect of life, in fact it is a lifestyle in Kerala so to speak. The miracles like paralysed people walk, incurable diseases cured etc. that happen even today inspires respect and awe for the vaidyars of Kerala. 

Kerala - Art Forms

KATHAKALI

Kathakali is one of the oldest theatre forms in the world. It originated in the area of southwestern India now known as the state of Kerala. Kathakali is a group presentation, in which dancers take various roles in performances traditionally based on themes from Hindu mythology, especially the two epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.

One of the most interesting aspects of Kathakali is its elaborate make-up code. Characters are categorized according to their nature. This determines the colours used in the make-up. The faces of noble male characters, such as virtuous kings, the divine hero Rama, etc., are predominantly green. Characters of high birth who have an evil streak, such as the demon king Ravana, are allotted a similar green make-up, slashed with red marks on the cheeks. Extremely angry or excessively evil characters wear predominantly red make-up and a flowing red beard. Forest dwellers such as hunters are represented with a predominantly black make-up base. Women and ascetics have lustrous, yellowish faces.

The technique of Kathakali includes a highly developed language of gesture, through which the artist can convey whole sentences and stories. The body movements and footwork are very rigourous. To attain the high degree of flexibility and muscle control required for this art, a Kathakali dancer undergoes a strenuous course of training, and special periods of body massage.



The dancers wear large head dresses, and the contours of the face are extended with moulded lime. The extraordinary costumes and make-up serve to raise the participants above the level of mere mortals, so that they may transport the audience to a world of wonders.

The orchestra of a Kathakali performance includes two drums known as the chenda and the maddalam, along with cymbals and another percussion instrument, the ela taalam. Normally, two singers provide the vocal accompaniment. The style of singing particular to Kathakali is called Sopaanam. The orchestra of a Kathakali troupe is unique and provides not only the background to the dancing, but also serves as a highly expressive special effects team. In the traditional village ambiance, the percussionists also provide publicity for the event by playing outside the venue for some hours before the start of the show.

A traditional Kathakali performance begins in the evening and continues throughout the night, culminating at the auspicious hour of dawn, when Good finally conquers Evil. Today, however, it has been modified for the proscenium stage, and urban audiences can participate in this ritualistic theatre experience in the comfort of a plush auditorium, within the span of a couple of hours.

KRISHNATTAM

Preamble
Krishnanattam or Krishnattam is a temple art, now performed at Guruvayur Temple as a votive performance by a troupe under the management of Guruvayur Devaswom (Guruvayur- 680 101, Thrissur Dt, Kerala, India). The performance is based on Krishnagiti, a text of slokas and padams in Sanskrit, composed by Manaveda, the Zamorin King of Calicut, in 1654. Krishna's story as described in detail in the Tenth and Eleventh Cantos of Srimad Bhagavatha, Mahabharata and Harivamsa is presented as song, dance and acting in a cycle of eight plays in eight days. The plays are Avataram, Kaliyamardanam, Rasakrida, Kamsavadham, Swayamvaram, Banayuddham, Vividavadham and Swargarohanam (Akaraka Swabhaviswa is the mnemonic to remember the names in order). An excellent critical article concerning the various aspects of this temple art and its appreciation is 'Preparing for Krishna' by Dr. Rustom Bharucha [1]. Krishnanattam, the Malayalam commentary to Krishnagiti by Prof. P.C. Vasudevan Elayath [2] includes an excellent introduction Krishnattapravesakam. Krishnattam, a book by Dr. Martha Bush Ashton Sikora and Robert P. Sikora [3] summarises the historical development, training of the artists, description of performances, views of the artists as well as other aspects of Krishnanattam.

Preliminary Rituals

Kelikottu is the first event of the play. Kelikottu is carried out by playing drums (maddalams), gong (chengala) and cymbals (Elathalam) in the evening during daytime at the East Nada of the temple. This is to inform the people in the neighborhood about the performance scheduled in the night. A lamp is lit in the makeup room at dusk. Actors (all male) put on their make up, sitting on the floor, around another lamp lighted from the lamp in the makeup room.

As soon as the daily rituals of the temple are completed and the Sanctum Sanctorum is closed for the day (about 10 to 10.30 p.m.), the Kali Vilakku (An Oil Lamp of the Play) is kept in front of performance space in the Temple on the North side of the Sanctum Sanctorum. The Kali Vilakku is lit by a Brahmin from the lamp in the make up room. Stage hands place the musical instruments (drums, gong and cymbals) on the ground behind the Kali Vilakku. The maddalam players touch them respectfully, lift them up, play a couple of beats on both sides to regulate the sound and hang the instruments around their waists. Then Kelikkayyu is performed using maddalams, chengala and elathalam.

After kelikkayyu, a colourful rectangular screen is held behind Kali Vilakku by two stage hands. Then Totayam is performed behind the screen by the women characters appearing on that day's play. Totayam is a prayer dance performed by the dancers accompanied by music to invoke the blessings of the lord. Totayam is not for the spectators. For Totayam, the lines starting with Narayana Narakanthaka Narakaparayana in the fifth padam of the play Kaliyamardanam are sung.

Upananda, Balarama, Krishna, Nandagopa. Purappatu in Kaliyamardanam All performances begin with the recital of the sloka starting with Souvarnatbhuta as the mangala sloka (Auspicious Beginning).

After Totayam it is time for Purappatu, a piece of pure dance choreography. Either Krishna or Balarama or both, or along with other characters, dance with gestures of hand and face and special steps. In Avataram, the first scene (Brahma and Bhoomidevi) is considered as purappatu. In other plays, the scene in which either Krishna or Balarama or both appear first on stage is considered as purappatu. In Kamsavadham, Purappatu is in the middle of the play. In Vividhavadham, there are two Purappatu, first in the beginning (Balarama and wives) and the other after some time (Krishna, Bhima and Arjuna). In Swargarohanam, there is no Purappatu.

CHAKYAR KOOTHU

 Chakyar is one among the many upper cast Hindus, dependant on the temple, living by the sacrament food and meagre salary from the temple, adept in telling stories from the legends in a humorous and enchanting manner.

The term Koothu literally means dance which may be taken as an index of the importance attached to dance in the original form of the art.

In Chakkiarkoothu, the story is recited in a quasi-dramatic style with emphasis on eloquent declarations with appropriately suggestive facial expressions and hand gestures.

It is one of the oldest of theatrical arts peculiar to Kerala. As a matter of fact, the movements and facial expressions and the signs and gestures employed by the actor in Koothu are said to approximate most closely to the principles laid down in the authoritative Sanskrit treatise on the subject, Bharatha's Natya Sastra.

Attired in a gilt bordered cloth, wearing a red cap and ornaments on the neck, ear and hands, he recites the scriptural poem and annotations with witty and humorous examples and anecdotes with the accompaniment of the cymbals and another cast Hindu Nambiar drumming the Mizhavu, made of copper with a narrow mouth on which is stretched a piece of parchment (a percussion instrument made of covering an narrow mouthed big earthen jar with deer skin).


He is licensed to tease and cut jokes on anyone among the audience, even the mighty ruler, during the discourse exploiting the legendary situations as all those are permitted as the prerogatives of the Chakyar. One should know Malayalam to enjoy the congenital jokes. 

OTTANTHULLAL

Among the classical performing arts of Kerala, Thullal is distinct for its simplicity of presentation, wit and humour. It follows the classical principles of Natyasasthra (a treatise on art compiled in the 2nd century B.C). Ottanthullal is the most popular among its three varieties. The other two are Seethankan and Parayan Thullal.

Thullal is a solo performance combining dance and recitation. Staged during temple festivals, the performer explicates the verses through expressive gestures. Themes are based on mythological stories. Humour, satire and social criticism are the hallmarks of this art form. The Thullal dancer is accompanied by a singer who repeats the verses. The orchestra consists of the Mridangam or the Thoppi Maddalam and a pair of cymbals.

Thullal was introduced in the 18th century by the famous Malayalam poet Kunchan Nambiar (1705 - 1770). A satirist, he is the man who brought literary wit and humour within the ken of common man. His innovative satiric art form Ottanthullal reflected his deep sense of social responsibility. Witticism and anecdotes from the life of this genius have become part of the lores and legends of the State.

There is an interesting story about the origin of the Thullal. Nambiar, who used to play the Mizhavu, (a percussion instrument) during Koothu performances, was once caught napping during a performance and the annoyed Koothu player sent him off the stage. To get his own back, the insulted young man created the new art form overnight and presented it himself the next evening. The audience were thrilled. However this story has been debated by scholar ever since, who believe that it is impractical to create a new art form Thullal overnight.


The Costume: The make up, though simple, is very much akin to that of Kathakali. The actor wears a long tape of white and red coloured clothes looped around the waist-string to form a knee-long skirt. The chest-piece is adorned by various coloured beads, glass and tinsel, and other ornaments. The face is painted green, the lips, red and the eyes emphasised with black paint. The headgear is colourful and richly decorated.

KOODIYATTAM

Koodiyattam, the Sanskrit theatre tradition of Kerala, India has been declared as among the 'Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity' by UNESCO.

It is for the first time that UNESCO has selected art forms from across the world to bestow recognition as part of its effort to safeguard expressions of oral heritage and traditional culture.


Koodiyattam was selected from among 32 entries from all over the world. Dating back to 2,000 years, `Koodiyattam' is a unique theatre tradition which survived in Kerala from an ancient past. It deals with the plays of eminent Sanskrit dramatists such as Bhasa, Harsha, Kalidasa, Maendravikrama and Saktibhadra. While following the performative principles of the larger Indian aesthetic tradition, `Koodiyattam' has its own distinctive characteristics that are firmly rooted in the culture of Kerala.

RAMANATTAM 

 Once the King Kerala Varma of Kottarakkara requested Manavedan, Zamourin of Kozhikode to send the Krishnanattam troupe to his palace for a performance.

Manavedan curtly rejected the request expressing that it is meant to be staged only in the Guruvayoor temple and also that the people of Southern Kerala have not yet grown intellectually to understand and enjoy such an art form, citing the incident at Tripunithura.

Belittled and humiliated King vowed to retort and immediately wrote Ramayanam in the Attakkadha fashion with verses set to music and prose dialogues. He named it "Ramanattam", opposing Krishnanattam, and wished to bring in all the pomp and grandeur of Krishnanattam to it.

He composed the entire Ramayanam in eight volumes in Manipravalam style (form of poetic composition in which words of Malayalam and Snaskrit are blended indistinguishably like pearls and gems studded in a golden necklace). It was a dance drama and the actors were given special and tough training and rehearsals with rich costumes and jewellery and premiered in the Kottarakkara palace.

It could be the ancestor of Kathakali for very many similarities in the presentations, costumes, acting and background music could be cited. The stage decor, costumes, make up, and mudras (formulated hand gestures conveying the text of lyrics) as seen today are improvements bestowed gradually to this art form by two veteran Namboothiris, Kalladikkodan and Kaplingadan.


Centuries down, there developed a branch of literature known as "Kathakali literature" and compositions of poet laureates like Kottayath thampuran, Unnayi Warrier, Koyithampuran, Vayaskara Mooss are milestones in the history of Kathakali.

MOHINIYATTAM

The sinuous dance of the enchantress, this is a distinctive classical dance form of Kerala. Slow, graceful, swaying movements of the body and limbs and highly emotive eye and hand gestures are unique to this dance form. The simple, elegant gold-filigreed dress, in pure white or ivory, is akin to the traditional attire of the women of Kerala.

The origin of Mohiniyattam is rooted in Hindu mythology. Once the ocean of milk was churned by the gods and demons to extract the elixir of life and immortality. The demons made away with this divine brew.


Lord Vishnu came to the rescue of the panicky gods and assumed the female form of an amorous celestial dame Mohini. Captivating the demons with her charms, Mohini stole the elixir from them and restored it to the gods. This dance was adopted by the Devadasi or temple dancers, hence also the name 'Dasiattam' which was very popular during the Chera reign from 9th to 12th century.

Kerala - Festivals

Festivals are true celebrations in Kerala; occasions when grandeur prevails over the characteristic simplicity of the state lifestyle. Be it the state festival of Onam or the one at a local place of worship, new attire and sumptuous feasts are a must for the celebrations.

Besides being occasions for merry-making, festivals of Kerala have traditionally been preservers of the art and culture of this land. Whether religious or social, traditional or modern, a festival here is never complete without an art event which would range from the 2000-year-old Kutiyattam to contemporary stage shows.

ONAM - The National Festival of Kerala

A legend of Onam is about the sweet memories of distant past when Mahabali, a celebrated emperor of the Asuras, was supposed to ruled over Kerala. His period is believed as the golden age in the history of the country. A popular folk song narrates the glories of that period. When Mahabali (Mavely) ruled, all men were equal, they were leading a life of happiness and nobody had any calamity-thus goes the song. There was neither dishonesty nor deception, nor was there any instance of false utterance, use of counterfeit measures or other kinds of unfair practice. Perfect harmony, communal and otherwise, prevailed. In short it was ideal welfare state, the legend tells us. But the Devas got annoyed with the rule of Mahabali as their popularity were deteriorating alarmingly. They complained to Lord Vishnu and he reincarnated as Vamana, the dwarf. He approached Mahabali and begged for three feet of land. Mahabali immediately granted Vamana’s wish. Suddenly, the dwarf sized Vamana grew into the skies and with one step covered the earth and with another step the heavens. With no place to keep the third step, Mahabali offered his head, which was pushed by Vamana into the netherworld or pathalam. But before sending Mahabali to the netherworld, Lord Vishnu gave Mahabali the boon that he can visit his subjects once in a year. The day Mahabali visits his subjects is celebrated as Onam. The time for his annual visit was in the first Malayalam month Chingom (August-September) and this occasion became one of Jubilation throughout the land, reminiscent of the prosperous times of Mahabali.

Whatever be the truth behind this legend, Onam has for last several centuries been a grand national harvest festival in which all sections of the people participate with extreme Jubilation. The festival is supposed to begin from the lunar asterism Atham which falls ten days before the asterism Thiruvonam. The preparations for the celebration begin on the Atham day. The Thiruvonam is the most important day of the festival. In the front yard of the house Athapoovu (floral decoration) is made for ten days from Atham to a Thiruvonam.  Presents are distributed to the younger members of the family. Then follows the onam feast of delicious food served on plantain leaves. Members of families, staying far away from native places make it a point to visit their ancestral homes to celebrate the festival in the company of their kith and kin. Keralites celebrate onam by organising community feast, cultural programmes, etc.

After the feast there will be sports and games, both indoor and outdoor, in which both men and women of all ages participate. Mack fight, ball games, card and chess play are the favorites of the menfolk whereas women find pleasure in `Oonjalattom, Thumbithullal, Thiruvathirakali, Kaikottikali, etc. Boat races (regatta) also form another item of onam festival which attract thousands of people including tourists from outside the state.

Of late, the state Government itself has taken the initiative to celebrate Onam season as tourist festival with the motive of attracting tourists. Various cultural forms, old and new, are presented in all important towns in the state during the Festival.

VISHU

Among the various Hindu festivals in Kerala, Vishu occupies a unique position in more than one respect. As symbol of the unostentatious Malayali, Vishu is free from the usual pomp and show and merry-making associated with other festivities. The first day for Medam is the unchangeable day of Vishu, whereas other festivals are determined according to the lunar asterisms on which they fall.

This day on which Vishu falls is the astronomical New Year day and it is celebrated as such. The Malayalis believe that the fortunes for the year depend upon the nature of the object one sees first in the morning of Vishu Day. In order to fulfill the desire to look at the auspicious articles, they prepare a 'Kani' (anomen) on the previous day for seeing in the next morning.The next item is giving of handsel (Kaineetom). The eldest member of the family takes some silver coins and gives them to a junior member with some raw rice and Konna flower. This is repeated in the case of other members also and they in turn give such handsel to their juniors, relatives, servants etc. After this the children begin to fire crackers.

NAVARATHRI

The Navarthri dedicated to Devi, the Divine Mother is celebrated all over India. In some places it is called Dussehra, in some other places `Kalipuja' or `Saraswathi Puja' and in still others, `Ayudha Puja'. During Navarathri days the Divine Mother is worshipped in one or the other of her different manifestations namely Durga, Saraswathi , Kali, etc. The Puja in connection with Navarathri is known as Bhuvaneswari puja which means, the worship of `Universal Mother'.

The festival is celebrated during the first nine days in the bright half of Aswina namely September-October. The last three days of the Navarathri are called Durgashtami, Mahanavami and Vijayadasami, and they are considered more sacred than the other days for Devi worship. It is believed that by offering prayers to Devi during these three days one can attain the full benefits of observing the Navaratiri rites for the whole period.

DEEPAVALI

Deepavali, the festival of lights, is held throughout India. In Kerala, this is celebrated only by HIndus. It falls on the preceding day of the New Moon in the Malayalam month Thulam (October-November). It is celebrated in commemoration of the destruction of the demon called Narakasura by Lord Krishna. As Lord Krishna killed Narakasura on the Chaturdasi day (the fourteenth lunar day) it is also known as Narakachaturdasi. Before sunrise, all in the house have their oil bath and put on new cloths. Sweets are then served followed by bursting of crackers.

The word 'Deepavali' means an array of lights. Light has always been the symbol of the highest ideals of man, and the festival of light, is celebrated all over the world in different forms.

MAHA SHIVARATHRI

The Mahasivarathri is essentially a religious festival unlike the Onam and Thiruvathira. The word means `the great night of Siva. According to the Sivapurana, it falls on the Krishna Chathurdasi day which is on the fourteenth day during the warning of the moon in the month of Megha, though in some years it may occur in Phalguna also. In Kerala the month of Kumbham is noted for the Sivarathri festival which falls in February -March.

There is no other place in Kerala where Sivarathiri is celebrated on such a grand scale as in Aluva. The celebration of Sivarathri in Aluva is as famous as the festivals like Ashtami at Vaikom, Pooram at Thrissur etc. The celebration of Sivarathri at the Siva temple at Aluva on the sand bank of River Periyar is attended with great eclat. In many respects the Sivarathri festival in Kerala can be considered a miniature Ardha Kumbha Mela held at Thriveni, the confluence of the holy rivers Ganga-Yamuna, and the invisible Saraswathi.

CHRISTMAS

Christmas celebrated to honour the glory of the nativity of Jesus on 25th December is the most significant and spectacular of Christian festivals. No other celebration is so enriched with so many customs and ceremonies. There is an array of spectacles like Christmas Star, Christmas tree, the Crib, Christmas cake, Christmas presents and the Christmas Father.

The mood is set with the advent of the season by the twinkling of Christmas stars, the beautiful pointer to the Babe of Bethlehem. The crib is a miniature production of the staple where Jesus was born. It developed from the old practice of giving dramatic expression to the events and the surroundings of the birth of Christ. Carols and songs developed from earlier nativity plays have become one of the most cheerful spectacles of the festivities.Priests hold mass in churches three times starting with the first at mid-night. Just before the mid-night 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. The hymn 'Gloria in exelcis Deo' is intoned admidst the explosion of crackers. A sumptous lunch with rare delicacies is a significant feature of the celebration. In Kerala, X'mas retains its homeliness and expresses itself in the cultural forms of the country without losing what is native to itself.

EASTER

Easter is the oldest Christian festival, as old as Christianity itself. The Central tenet of Christianity is not the birth of Jesus, but his resurrection. Easter derived from this paschal mystery and from the events of Good Friday.

On Holy Thursday the Lord's Supper is held in the evening. The washing of feet is a remarkable trait, emphasizing the love for one another. At home there will be the rite of the paschal bread. 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. Good Friday is a day of grief when churches are empty and dark. Services are held in the afternoon. Holy Saturday is a day of mourning and wailing. A total silence reigns the church from morning to dusk. But by ten 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 blessed. A big candle is then consecrated and from it is lighted to many candles, indicating the resurrection. Bells peal, music fills the air and light floods the hall. Hallelujah is the joyous word of Easter wish. Easter Sunday is a quiet day and the celebrations are spiritual and inward rather than social and showy.

MILADI SHERIF

Mohammed, the Prophet of Islam, was born on the 20th April, 571 AD. Muslims all over the world celebrate the birth of the Prophet in various ways. In Kerala the practice of large scale celebration of the Prophet's birthday is of recent origin. Reading what is commonly known as the “Maulod” which is a short biography of the Prophet written both in verse and prose in the Arabic language has been the common ritual of the day. Of late in Kerala, there has developed another practice connected with the Miladi Sharif. Colorful processions are taken out through the towns reciting Thakbir. These processions finally converge on some central place where public meetings are held. Night lectures are organized during the first twelve days of the month when Muslim Ulemas through their discourses enlighten the people on various aspects of the life of the Prophet.

RAMADAN

Idul-Fitr, of late known by the misnomer `Ramadan' is one of the two festivals of Islam. Ramadan is the ninth month of the lunar year. During this holy month the Muslims Observe fast, giving up all kinds of food and drinks during day time, and spend the major part of the night in 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 Idul-Fitr festival. Because this festival is connected with the month of Ramadan, it came to be known as `Ramadan'. The Idul-Fitr festival starts with the commencement of the first day of the month of `Shawwl'. The first item of the celebration is distribution of food materials to the poor and the deserving. 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. Muslims all over the world celebrate this festival with great eclat and in gratitude to God.

BAKRID

Bakrid, to be rightly called Idul-Azha or the festival of sacrifice, is the second of the two festivals of Islam. This festival is observed by Muslims all over the world. It falls on the 10th of Dhul-Hagg, the last month of the lunar year. It is celebrated in commemoration of Abraham's willingness to offer his only son as a sacrifice at God's command. In Kerala as in other parts of the world, this day dawns with the resounding of Thakhbir (Allahu Akbar), the declaration that God is great. Every Muslim house wakes up with the spirit of sacrifice and festivity. Men, women and children, dressed themselves in their best attire and reciting the Thakbir, proceed to Id-Gah which is the wide open space set apart for public prayers. The whole atmosphere is filled with the resonance of "Allahu-Akbar". The Assembly then prepares for the congregational prayer led by the Imam. After the ceremonial Id prayer, the leader addresses the devotees, exhorting them to be conscious of their duties to God and follow the example of Abraham. The prayer and the sermon over, the gathering exchange greetings and as an expression of affectionate brotherhood, hug each other. The festivity at home commence after the ceremonial prayer with hearty feasts followed by social visits.

THIRUVATHIRA

The Thiruvathira festival falls on the asterism Thiruvathira in the Malayalam month of Dhanu (December-January). The Ardra Darshan celebrated in Tamil Nadu corresponds to Thiruvathira of Kerala. It is considered to be high auspicious to worship Siva and the devotees go to the temple before sunrise for 'darshan'. Tradition has it that Thiruvathira festival is celebrated in commemoration of the death of Kamadeva, the mythological God of love.
Even though the Thiruvathira is celebrated by most of the Hindu communities it is essentially a Nair women's get up at about 4 am and take bath on seven days commencing form the asterism Aswathi. While taking bath they sing certain songs mostly relating to the God of Love, accompanied by rhythmic sound produced by splashing water with their fists. In conclusion they stand in a circle in the water hand in hand singing songs. The first Thiruvathira coming after the marriage of a girl is known as Puthen Thiruvathira or Poothiruvathira and it is celebrated on a grand scale.

NEHRU TROPHY BOAT RACE

The Nehru trophy regatta at Alappuzha on 14th August every year has become an Independence Day feature. Different types of boats take part in this competition. Above each boat gleam scarlet silk umbrellas as the boats go in procession in the backwaters and rivers of a Kerala, which remind one of the sea-faring and martial traditions of ancient Kerala. The trophy was instituted by former Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru who enthralled by the charm and gaiety of the Kerala Water Carnival.

THRISSUR POORAM

The most colourful temple festival of Kerala, Thrissur Pooram, attracts large masses of devotees and spectators from all parts of the State and even outside.

Celebrated in Medom (April-May) it consists of processions of richly caparisoned elephants from various neighboring temples to the Vadakunnatha temple, Thrissur. The most impressions are those from the Krishna temple at Thiruvambadi and the Devi temple at Paramekkavu, both situated in the town itself. This festival was introduced by Sakthan Thampuran, the Maharaja of erstwhile Kochi state. The Pooram festival is also well-known for the magnificent display of fireworks.

KALPATHY RATHOLSAVAM, PALAKKAD

Kalpathy Ratholsavam (Kalpathi Chariot Festival) is an annual Hindu Temple festival in the Kalpathy village of Palakkad district. The festival is at the Sri Visalakshi Sametha Sri Viswanatha Swamy temple, where the deities are Lord Siva (Lord Viswanatha) and his consort Visalakshi, another name for Parvati.

The annual ten day chariot festival conducted here during the month of November is one of the most remarkable festivals of Kerala. Vedic recitals and cultural programmes are held in the temple during the first four days of the festival. This is believed to be over 700 years old. On the last three days, thousands of devotees gather together to draw decorated temple chariots through the streets.

The ancient temple nestles by the banks of the Kalpathy river which is also known as the Nila river. The temple dates back to 1425 A.D. The similarities to the famous Varanasi Kashi Vishwanath temple on the banks of the Ganges in North India gives this temple the moniker: kasiyil pakuthi kalpathy-- Kalpathy is half Kashi.

ARTHUNKAL FEAST

St. Andrew's Forane Church at Arthunkal, one of the sacred churches in Kerala, attracts lakhs of devotees both Christains and non-Christians every year from all parts of the State. The feast of St. Sebastian is celebrated on a grand scale for eleven days in a year. Owing to the unmanageable crowding of pilgrims and the resultant confusion on January 20 the final day of the feast, the church authorities have instituted another minor feast on the 8th day after the principal feast. This is known as Ettamperunnal. Of late this feast also has attained as much importance as the principal feast.

EDAPPALLY PERUNAL

       

'Forty hour devotion' marks the commencement of the festival every year. The festival begins on the 23rd of April with solemn High Mass and Litany. On the 25th flag is hoisted solemnly and ceremoniously, the grand function on may 4(The St. George's Day )of every year.

St. George's Syro-Malabar Catholic Forane Church : popularly known as Edappally Church, is situated in Edappally, which is about 10 km from Cochin. This is one of the oldest churches in Kerala built in 594 AD. In 1080, a new church was built adjacent to the old church. Every year, a grand nine-day festival is celebrated here in the month of April - May. The church is also quite popular amongst the non-Christians, who also come here for veneration.

CHANDANAKUDA MAHOTSAVAM IN BEEMAPALLI

  The holy shrine of Beema Beevi, more popularly known as Beempalli, which is held sacred by Muslims as well as others, is situated about five kilometres southwest of the Trivandrum Central Railway Station, on the beach road leading to Poonthura via Valiyathura. Beemapalli is a shrine dedicated to the hallowed memory of Beema Beevi, a pious and devoted Muslim lady gifted with divine powers. It is one of the most distinguished mosques in Kerala, which draws large gatherings. Pilgrims of all ages from all communities can be seen heading towards the shrine all along the routes during this festival.

Kasargod

Kasargod is district of Kerala lying at the northern tip of Kerala bounded by the Western ghats in the east and Arabian sea in the west; twelve rivers flowing across its terrain, Kasaragod is an enchanting beauty of Nature's creations.


There are different views on the derivation of the name "KASARAGOD". One view is that it is the combination of two Sanskrit words kaasaara (which means lake or pond) and kroda (which means a place where treasure is kept).

District Map : 

KASARAGOD TOWN – District headquarters

Chandragiri Fort (4 km from Kasaragod) – Built by Shivappa Naik in the 17th century. Small square shaped fort. Offers view of Chandragiri river and Arabian sea. Vantage point to watch sunset. Mosque and ancient Kizhur Sastha temple nearby.

Chandragiri Cruises – Backwater boat trips to nearby islands & palm groves available from Chandragiri bridge.

BEKAL (16 km south of Kasaragod) - Planned to be developed as a major beach & backwater tourist destination.

Pallikere Beach – Walking distance from Bekal fort. Shallow water beach offers a scenic view of Bekal fort. Gardens & playground have been developed near the beach. Bekal Aqua Park – Offers boating facility in the backwaters near Pallikere beach/Bekal Hole backwaters.

Bekal Fort – Largest and best-preserved fort in Kerala. 130-ft high laterite structure shaped like a giant keyhole. The fort’s tall observation tower offers a view of Arabian sea, beach and surrounding areas. Believed to be built in the 1650s by Shivappa Naik of Ikkeri dynasty. Mosque built by Tipu Sultan and Hanuman temple at fort entrance.

Kappil Beach (22 km) – Remote & once secluded beach is becoming a tourist attraction.

Ananthapura Lake Temple (12 km northeast) – This 9th century temple set in a rock cut lake is the only lake temple in Kerala. It is believed to be the moolasthanam (original seat) of Ananthapadmanabha swamy at Thiruvananthapuram. Deity is Padmanabhaswamy seated on Anantha. Theppotsavam of deity on canoes in the lake and Yakshagana performances are held during annual festival in April.

VALIYAPARAMBA (30 km from Bekal) – Perhaps the most scenic backwater stretch in Kerala. Fed by four rivers and dotted with numerous little islands. Valiyaparamba offers enchanting boat cruises.

Kumbla (14 km northwest of Kasaragod) – Set on a picturesque lagoon separated from the sea by a sand pit & connected by a narrow channel. Was the seat of Kumbla kings who ruled the southern Tuluva kingdom. Sree Parthasarathi Temple at Munjankavu nearby.

NILESWARAM – Cultural centre of the district. The Nileswaram palace today functions as the folk centre of the Dept of Archaeology. The town is also famous for its shrines and the Karl Bhavan Yoga and cultural centres. There are several ‘Kavus’, where nature, God and man commune in serene silence. Mannanpurathu kavu is the most important.

Manjeshwara – Known for Srimad Anantheshwara temple or Mahalingeshwara temple.

Birth place memorial of Govinda Pai – patriarch of Kannada literature and poetry. 

Kanwatheertha beach (3 km from Manjeshwara) – A large swimming pool-like formation of the sea on the vast beach is the main attraction.

Bela (15 km north of Kasaragod) – Mother Doloru Church or Church of ‘Our Lady of Sorrows’ – oldest church in the district. Built in 1890 in Gothic style – rare architecture.

Madiyankulam Durga Temple – Architectural heritage property. Bhutha dance performed during annual festivals in May/June and Dec/Jan.

Cheruvathur –A fascinating picnic spot. Sight from hill above is exquisite. Known for Veeramalakunnu – home of the illustrious poets and scholars of Kuttamath.

Kottancherry (30 km north east of Kanhangad) – Similar in scenic beauty to Kodaikanal. The rain forest near Konnakkad is ideal for trekking.

RANIPURAM (55 km) – 750 m ASL. Trekking trails and varied vegetation – evergreen shola & monsoon forests & grasslands. Accessible by jeep.

Thalankara – Malik Dinar Juma Masjid – Built in old carpentry style; believed to be one of the oldest mosques in India. Located near Arabian Sea. Built by a Muslim preacher Malik Mohammed Dinar, whose tomb lies adjacent to the mosque.

Kannur

Kannur district derived its name from the location of its headquarters at Kannur town. The old name 'Cannanore' is the anglicised form of the Malayalam word Kannur. According to one opinion, 'Kannur' is a derivation from Kanathur, an ancient village, the name of which survives even today in one of the wards of Kannur Municipality. 

Another version is that Kannur might have assumed its name from one of the , deities of the Hindu pantheon, a compound of two words, Kannan (Lord Krishna) and Ur (place) making it the place of Lord Krishna. In this context, it is worth mentioning that the deity of the Katalayi Sreekrishna temple was originally installed in a shrine at Katalayi Kotta in the south eastern part of the present Kannur town.

Kannur District Map:

KANNUR TOWN – “Great Emporia of Spice Trade” in Marco Polo’s travel records. Capital of erstwhile Kolathiri Rajas.

Payyambalam Beach (2 km) – Popular picnic spot; clear stretch of sandy beach. Mortal remains of eminent persons from Kerala are laid to rest here.

Mappila Bay (3 km) – Beach with remnants of a temple and fort. A sea wall projecting from the fort separates the rough sea and inland water. Modern fishing harbour has been developed under Indo-Norwegian pact.

St. Angelo Fort (3 km) – A formidable triangular fort built of laterite, facing the Arabian sea, replete with moat and bastions. Originally built by Portuguese in 1505. Passed into the hands of Dutch, Ali Raja and British. Offers fascinating views of Mappila bay and Dharmadam island.

PARASSINIKKADAVU (18 km) - Sri Muthappan Temple - Only temple in Kerala where Theyyam, a ritual dance, is performed every morning & evening. Presiding deity is Muthappan, hunter incarnation of Shiva. Follows unusual ritual of offering fish & toddy to the deity. Situated on banks of Valapattanam river. Boating facilities available.

Snake Park (15 km) – Dedicated to conservation of snakes. Has 150 snake species scientifically maintained in pits and glass cages. Snake demonstrations conducted every hour draw large crowds. Located amidst scenic setting in a sandalwood park.

MUZHAPPILANGAD BEACH (15 km, enroute to Thalassery) - One of the longest (4 km) and cleanest beaches in Kerala. Highway runs along its entire length, thus making it a ‘drive-in’ beach. Beach is protected by black rocks from deep currents, thus making the shallow waters safe for swimming. Dharmadam island is visible from here.

DHARMADAM Island (17 km) – Small 5 acre island covered with coconut palms & dense bushes has a beautiful beach. Permission is required to enter this privately owned island.

Kizhunna Ezhara Beach (12 km) – This beautiful stretch of sand is one of the most secluded beaches in Kerala.

Malayala Kalagramam, New Mahe (29 km) – This is a famous centre for arts and crafts. Conducts courses in painting, sculpture, music, dance and pottery. Has art gallery.

Thodeekulam Siva Temple (34 km, on Thalassery-Mananthavady road) – Famous for mural paintings. Believed to be 2000 years old. Associated with the Pazhassi Raja family.

Madayi Para (22 km) – Ancient mosque originally built in 1124 AD by Malik Ibn Dinar, a Muslim preacher from Arabia. Has a block of white marble brought by him from Mecca. Nearby is a dilapidated fort, built by Tipu Sultan. There is also a fine beach.

EZHIMALA (25 km north) – Beautiful beach here has a hill nearby (286 m high). Atop the hill is a mosque having mortal remains of Sheikh Abdul Latif, a Muslim reformist. At the foot of the hill are a cave & an old burial chamber. Rare ayurvedic herbs are found in Ezhimala. Ezhimala was capital of the ancient Mooshika kings. Buddha is believed to have visited Ezhimala. Popular picnic spot. Naval academy is being developed here.

ARALAM Wildlife Sanctuary (35 km from Thalassery) – Tropical semi evergreen forest. Herds of deer, elephant, etc.

Pazhassi Dam (37 km) – Dam site with garden. Boating facility in reservoir.

PYTHAL MALA (65 km) – This enchanting hill station (1370 m ASL) is rich in flora and fauna. It is a 6 km trek to the top of the hills. There is a proposal to establish a zoo here.

Thalasseri – Thalasseri Fort – Square fort with massive walls & secret tunnels into the sea, located near beach. Built by the British in 1708. Grand gateway intricately carved huge door and a lighthouse are major attractions.

Arrackal Kottaram (3 km from Thalassery) – Palace of Arrackal Ali Rajas.

Gundert Bungalow – Residence of German missionary & scholar Rev. Dr. Herman Gundert (1814-1893). He compiled first Malayalam-English dictionary, published one of the first Malayalam newspapers-Paschimodayam & also built a church on Nattur hill.