Uthralikkavu Pooram Eve: New Bhagavathi Theyyam Performance by Kannur Thadikadavu Ramachandran

Uthralikkavu Pooram Eve: New Bhagavathi Theyyam Performance by Kannur Thadikadavu Ramachandran Peruvannan and Troupe

The text describes a new Bhagavathi Theyyam performance that was presented on the eve of the Uthralikkavu Pooram festival by Kannur Thadikadavu Ramachandran Peruvannan and his troupe. Theyyam is a ritualistic dance form that is popular in Kerala, and it is often performed as part of temple festivals.

The specific Theyyam performed on this occasion was a new composition dedicated to the goddess Bhagavathi. The performance was well-received by the audience, and it was seen as a fitting prelude to the main festival events.

Additional Information:

• Uthralikkavu Pooram: Uthralikkavu Pooram is a major temple festival that is held annually in the Thrissur district of Kerala. The festival is celebrated in honor of the goddess Bhagavathi, and it is known for its colorful processions and vibrant cultural performances.
• Bhagavathi Theyyam: Bhagavathi Theyyam is a Theyyam performance that is dedicated to the goddess Bhagavathi. The performance typically features a dancer who is possessed by the spirit of the goddess, and it is often accompanied by elaborate rituals and music.
• Kannur Thadikadavu Ramachandran Peruvannan: Kannur Thadikadavu Ramachandran Peruvannan is a renowned Theyyam artist from Kannur, Kerala. He is known for his expertise in performing a variety of Theyyam characters, and he has been a regular performer at major temple festivals across the state.

The Ezhunnallippu, meaning "procession" in Malayalam, is indeed a grand event and the highlight of the eight-day Uthralikkavu Pooram festival. It takes place on the seventh day of the festival, which coincides with the next Tuesday after the flag-hoisting ceremony (kodiyettam).

Three teams from neighboring villages, Enkakkad, Kumaranellur, and Wadakanchery, participate in the Ezhunnallippu. Each team presents a procession of seven to eleven caparisoned elephants, all decorated with traditional ornaments like trunk masks (netippaTTam), shields (aalavaTTam), and white fly whisks (veNchaamaram).

The processions are accompanied by the rhythmic beats of traditional musical ensembles like Panchavadyam and Pandimelam, creating a vibrant and electrifying atmosphere. The event showcases the rich cultural heritage of Kerala and is a must-see for anyone visiting the state during this time.

Uthralikavu Pooram - one of the most famous poorams in Kerala, India

Uthralikavu Pooram is one of the most famous poorams in Kerala, India. It is held every year in the Malayalam month of Kumbham (usually falls on February / March) at the Sree Ruthira Mahakalikavu Temple in Wadackanchery, Thrissur. The festival is celebrated for eight days and is marked by a series of religious and cultural events.

The most important event of the festival is the pooram procession, which takes place on the seventh day. The procession consists of caparisoned elephants, decorated chariots, and traditional performing arts troupes. The procession winds its way through the streets of Thrissur, attracting thousands of spectators from all over Kerala.

The Uthralikavu Pooram is a vibrant and colorful festival that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. It is a must-see for anyone interested in experiencing the unique traditions of this South Indian state.

Here are some of the key highlights of the Uthralikavu Pooram:

The Pada Purappadu is a ritualistic event that marks the beginning of the festival. On this day, the idol of Goddess Bhadrakali is taken out of the sanctum sanctorum and placed on a specially decorated platform.

The Ezhunnallippu is a grand procession that takes place on the seventh day of the festival. The procession consists of caparisoned elephants, decorated chariots, and traditional performing arts troupes.

The Kuthiravela is a mock horse race that is held on the eighth day of the festival. This event is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists.

The Uthralikavu Pooram is a truly unique and unforgettable experience. If you are planning a trip to Kerala, be sure to include this festival in your itinerary.

Historic Moment: PM Modi Opens U.A.E's First Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi (Feb 14th)

BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi is a traditional Hindu place of worship that is being built by the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. The mandir is located in Abu Mureikhah, which is near Al Rahba off the Dubai–Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Highway. The mandir, upon completion, will be the first traditional Hindu stone mandir in the Middle East. 

The mandir is made of intricately carved marble and has a complex design that incorporates traditional Hindu architectural elements. The mandir complex will also include a cultural center, a library, and a Vedic school. 

The mandir is scheduled to be inaugurated in 2022. 

Here are some additional facts about the BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi: 

The mandir is built on a 27-acre site.

The mandir is 108 feet tall, 262 feet long, and 180 feet wide.

The mandir has two domes, seven spires, 12 shikhars, and 402 pillars.

The mandir is made of more than 25,000 pieces of stone carved by skilled artisans in India.

The mandir complex will also include a cultural center, a library, and a Vedic school.

The BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi is a significant project for the Hindu community in the United Arab Emirates. It is a symbol of the growing tolerance and acceptance of different faiths in the region. The mandir is also a testament to the skill and dedication of the artisans who built it.

 The architecture of the BAPS Hindu Mandir is awe-inspiring. The intricate carvings, majestic domes, and ornate pillars reflect the rich heritage and craftsmanship of ancient Indian temples. The temple complex spans over 55,000 square meters and features a prayer hall, exhibition halls, a library, and various other facilities. 

Inside the temple, visitors are greeted by the divine presence of deities such as Bhagwan Swaminarayan, Radha-Krishna, and other Hindu gods and goddesses. The serene atmosphere and the devotional chants create a sense of peace and tranquility, allowing devotees to connect with the divine. 

Apart from being a place of worship, the BAPS Hindu Mandir also serves as a cultural center that promotes the values of Hinduism. It hosts various events and activities that celebrate festivals, promote spiritual growth, and foster community engagement. The temple also offers educational programs and workshops that aim to spread awareness about Hindu traditions and philosophy. 

The BAPS Hindu Mandir is not just a religious institution; it is a symbol of unity and inclusivity. It welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds, encouraging dialogue and understanding among different cultures and religions. The temple serves as a bridge between the East and the West, promoting harmony and peace in a diverse and multicultural society. 

In conclusion, the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi is a testament to the beauty and richness of Hinduism. It stands as a beacon of spirituality, peace, and harmony, inviting people from all walks of life to experience the divine and embrace the values of love, compassion, and understanding.

The Thypooyam festival in Korkaenchery a vibrant and energetic celebration at Thrissur-Kerala

The Thypooyam festival in Korkaenchery

is a vibrant and energetic celebration held annually in Thrissur district, Kerala, India. It falls on the Makayiram asterism in the Malayalam month of Medam (April-May) and is dedicated to Lord Subrahmanya, son of Lord Shiva.

History of the Thypooyam festival: The origins of the Thypooyam festival can be traced back to the 18th century. According to legend, it was started by a local chieftain named Kandan Kurup, who believed Lord Shiva appeared to him in a dream and instructed him to initiate the festival. 

Celebration venue: The Korkaenchery Thypooyam festival is held at the Korkaenchery Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga and believed to be built in the 10th century. 

The Korkaenchery Thypooyam festival is a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. It is also a time for people to come together and celebrate their shared faith. The festival is a popular tourist

attraction and draws visitors from all over India and abroad. 

Kavadiyatam is a ritual art form that is performed during the Korkaenchery Thypooyam festival. It is a form of penance in which devotees carry a kavadi, a decorated structure that is often made of bamboo and decorated with flowers, fruits, and other offerings. The kavadis can be very heavy, and the devotees often walk long distances to reach the temple.

Kavadiyatam is a popular form of worship in Kerala, and it is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the devotees. The kavadis are usually dedicated to Lord Murugan, the Hindu god of war and victory. 

The kavadiyatam procession is one of the most spectacular events of the Korkaenchery Thypooyam festival. The devotees, dressed in white, walk in a single file, carrying their kavadis with great devotion. The procession is accompanied by music and chanting, and the air is filled with the sounds of drums, cymbals, and other traditional instruments.

 The Kavadiyatam procession is a powerful and moving display of faith and devotion. It is a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of Kerala, and it is a celebration of the power of religion to bring people together. 

Key features of the Thypooyam festival: 

Kavadiyattam: The highlight of the festival is the kavadiyattam, a ritualistic dance-like performance where devotees carry decorated structures called kavadis on their shoulders. These kavadis can be elaborate and heavy, symbolizing offerings and penance. 

Processions: The festival features colorful processions with caparisoned elephants, decorated chariots, and floats, accompanied by traditional music and dance forms. 

Cultural significance: The Thypooyam festival showcases the rich cultural heritage of Kerala and is a time for people to come together and celebrate their shared faith. 

Significance of the Kavadiyattam: The Kavadiyattam performance is not just a spectacle but a form of devotion and penance. Devotees believe carrying the kavadis brings them good luck, and prosperity, and fulfills their wishes. 

If you're interested in experiencing the vibrant Korkaenchery Thypooyam festival, here are some tips: 

Plan your trip well in advance, as the festival attracts large crowds.

Book your accommodation early, especially if you're traveling during peak season.

Be respectful of the cultural significance of the festival and dress modestly.

Carry water and snacks, as the processions can be long and tiring.

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and immerse yourself in the rich cultural experience!

Prime Minister Modi Seals Decades-Long Journey with Ayodhya Pran Pratishtha on 22nd Jan

The main event happening in Ayodhya tomorrow, Monday, January 22nd, 2024, is the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, also known as the consecration ceremony, of the Ram Mandir. This is a very significant event for Hindus around the world, as it marks the official opening of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, which is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama. 

Here are some details about the ceremony:

 Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the chief guest and performed some of the rituals.

The ceremony will be officiated by a select group of seers (religious leaders).

The temple will be open for darshan (viewing) to the general public from January 23rd.

Ayodhya is currently under a heavy security blanket due to the large number of people expected to attend the ceremony.

Many other cultural and religious events are also planned around the city in the lead-up to and during the ceremony. 

Fourteen couples will indeed be serving as the "mukhya yajmans" for the Ram Mandir consecration ceremony in Ayodha tomorrow. These couples represent a diverse cross-section of India, hailing from all four cardinal directions and the Northeast. It signifies a spirit of inclusivity and symbolizes the temple's importance to Hindus across the nation. 

Here are some interesting details about the "mukhya yajmans": 

Selection: They were chosen based on their devotion to Lord Rama, social standing, and commitment to Hindu values.

Representation: Each couple represents a specific region and community, ensuring a sense of regional and cultural participation.

Significance: Their role involves actively participating in the consecration rituals, lending their spiritual weight to the ceremony.

List of Couples:

• Ramchandra Kharadi and wife (Udaipur, Rajasthan)
• Ram Kui Jemi and wife (Assam)
• Gurucharan Singh Gill and wife (Jaipur, Rajasthan)
• Krishna Mohan and wife (Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh)
• Ramesh Jain and wife (Multani, Maharashtra)
• Adalarasan and wife (Tamil Nadu)
• Vitthal Rao Kamnle and wife (Maharashtra)
• Mahadev Rao Gaikwad and wife (Latur, Maharashtra)
• Lingaraj Basavraj and wife (Karnataka)
• Dilip Valmiki and wife (Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh)
• Anil Chaudhary and wife (Dom Raja family)
• Kailash Yadav and wife (Kashi, Uttar Pradesh)
• Arun Chowdhury and wife (Palwal, Haryana)
• Kavindra Pratap Singh and wife (Kashi, Uttar Pradesh)

Their participation underlines the broad significance of the Ram Mandir consecration, making it a celebration for all Indian Hindus, regardless of their background or region.

Divine Arrival: Lord Rama's Idol Installed in Ayodhya's Grand Temple After Decades

The Ayodhya Ram Temple, a grand and much-anticipated project, has finally reached a significant milestone with the installation of the idol of Lord Rama in the sanctum sanctorum on January 19, 2024. This momentous occasion marks the culmination of decades of efforts and devotion from countless individuals, and it heralds a new era for the holy city of Ayodhya.

 The Idol of Ram Lalla:

 The idol itself, affectionately known as "Ram Lalla," is a 51-inch black stone statue depicting Lord Rama as a five-year-old child. The Ayodhya Ram temple idol is a five-foot-tall statue of Lord Rama, sculpted in black stone. It depicts the deity as a five-year-old child in a standing posture, with his right hand raised in a gesture of blessing. The idol was created by Mysuru-based artist Arun Yogiraj and was installed in the sanctum sanctorum of the Ram temple in Ayodhya on January 18, 2024.

 The idol is made of black stone, which is a traditional material for Hindu temple idols. It is said that the black stone represents the darkness of ignorance, which is overcome by the light of knowledge and wisdom, represented by Lord Rama. The five-foot height of the idol is also significant, as it represents the five Pandava brothers, who are said to be incarnations of Rama.

 The idol was created over two years by a team of 20 sculptors. It was carved from a single piece of black stone, which was brought from the Nandi Hills in Karnataka. The idol was then transported to Ayodhya, where it was installed in the sanctum sanctorum of the Ram temple.

 The Consecration Ceremonies: 

The installation of the idol is just one part of the elaborate consecration ceremonies, known as "Pran Pratishtha," which began on January 16, 2024, and will culminate in a grand ceremony on January 22, 2024. These ceremonies involve a series of Vedic rituals performed by learned priests, including:

• Ganesh Puja: A prayer to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.
• Kalash Yatra: A procession carrying sacred pots filled with holy water from the Saryu River.
• Abhishek: Bathing the idol of Lord Rama with milk, honey, and other sacred substances.
• Prana Pratishtha: The ritual that breathes life into the idol, transforming it into a divine being.

Significance of the Temple: 

The Ayodhya Ram Temple holds immense religious and cultural significance for Hindus worldwide. It is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, a revered deity in Hinduism, and the site has been a pilgrimage center for centuries. The construction of the temple represents the fulfillment of a long-cherished dream for many Hindus and symbolizes the triumph of faith and perseverance. 

Impact on Ayodhya: 

The completion of the temple is expected to have a significant impact on Ayodhya, attracting millions of pilgrims and tourists from around the world. This influx is anticipated to boost the local economy, creating new jobs and business opportunities. Additionally, the temple is expected to further rejuvenate Ayodhya's rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance. 

A New Chapter Unfolds: 

The installation of the idol and the upcoming consecration ceremonies mark a new chapter in the history of Ayodhya and the Ram Janmabhoomi. The temple stands as a testament to the enduring faith of millions and serves as a beacon of hope and unity for all.

Prana Pratishtha of Ram Lalla Idol by Prime Minister Modi 

On January 22, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi performed the Prana Pratishtha ceremony at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya. The ceremony marks the installation of the idol of Lord Rama in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. 

The Prana Pratishtha ceremony

The Prana Pratishtha ceremony is a sacred ritual in Hinduism that is performed to breathe life into an idol. The ceremony involves a series of Vedic rituals performed by learned priests. 

In the case of the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, the Prana Pratishtha ceremony was performed over seven days. The ceremony began on January 16, 2024, with the installation of the idol of Lord Rama in the sanctum sanctorum. The ceremony culminated on January 22, 2024, with the performance of the final rituals by Prime Minister Modi. 

Prime Minister Modi's participation in the Prana Pratishtha ceremony was a significant event. It marked the culmination of decades of efforts by Hindu nationalists to build a Ram temple in Ayodhya. The ceremony also served as a major political event, as it was seen as a victory for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the political party that Modi leads. 

The Prana Pratishtha ceremony was a historic event that is expected to have a profound impact on India. It is a symbol of the religious and cultural significance of the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple for Hindus. The ceremony is also expected to boost tourism and economic activity in Ayodhya. 

I hope this information provides a comprehensive overview of the Ayodhya Ram temple idol and ceremonies. Please let me know if you have any further questions.