Vrischikolsavam Festival (वृश्चिकोल्सवम् महोत्सव)

The Vrischikolassavam festival at Sri Poornathrayesa Temple in Thripunithura is an exciting and important festival in Kerala, celebrated in the month of Vrischikam in Thiruvonam Nakshatra which will be celebrated from 28th November to 6th December in 2024. Vrischikolsavam festival is also known as Anguradi festival. Highlights of the Vrischikolsavam festival
Cultural Performances: The festival features traditional Kerala temple music, including:

❀ Melam
❀ Panchavadyam
❀ Thayambaka
❀ Madhalapattu
❀ Kombu Pattu
❀ Kuzhal Pattu

The highlight is the Panchari Melam, performed with precision for about 3.5 hours, followed by adantha melam and nadapura melam.

Ezhunnallippu (Procession): A grand procession of the utsava murti, carried atop an elephant, is a central event. Accompanied by 15 caparisoned elephants and the resounding Panchari Melam, this is a sight to behold.

Thrikketta Purappadu: Celebrated on December 1, this day commemorates the visit of Vilwamangalam Swamiyar, who believed the deity manifests during the procession rather than in the temple’s sanctum. The night procession draws large crowds making offerings.

Artistic Showcases: The festival is also a platform for renowned artists to perform Kathakali and Carnatic music, enriching the cultural experience.

About Poornathrayeesa Temple and Deity
The main deity, Poornathrayeesa, represents Bhagawan Narayan, embodying the essence of the three Vedas (Rig, Yajur, and Sama). The murti is believed to have been obtained by Arjuna from Vaikuntha and installed in the temple, which dates back to the beginning of Kali Yuga.

Rituals and Traditions of Poornathrayeesa Temple
❀ Daily Rituals: The presence of the Tantri (priest) and an elephant is mandatory during daily pujas.
❀ Ganapathy Vigraha: A unique feature is the Ganapathy idol in a fallen posture, believed to have fallen during the installation of the main murti.
❀ The Vrischikolsavam festival not only highlights the rich cultural heritage of Kerala but also fosters community spirit and devotion, making it a remarkable experience for devotees and visitors alike.