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Kottayam

Bordered by the lofty and mighty Western Ghats on the east and the Vembanad Lake and paddy fields of Kuttanad on the west, Kottayam is a land of unique characteristics.
Panoramic backwater stretches, lush paddy fields, highlands, hills and hillocks, extensive rubber plantations, places associated with many legends and a totally literate people have given Kottayam District the enviable title: The land of letters, legends, latex and lakes. Kottayam Town is the first town in India to have achieved 100% literacy (a remarkable feat achieved as early as in 1989).
English education in South India did actually start at the Old Seminary here at Kottayam in 1813. The first printing press in Kerala was established (CMS Press) here in 1821 by Rev.Benjamin Baily. The first college in the State (CMS College) was also started here at Kottayam in 1840. Maiden printed Malayalam-English and English-Malayalam Dictionaries were published from Kottayam in 1846 and 1847 respectively. The first and only Cooperative Society of writers, authors and publishers (SPCS), for publishing books and periodicals was set up here in 1945. Kottayam is the hometown of a vast number of books and periodicals and is the center of publishing business in the State. Kottayam is the first town in India selected by the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India to be transformed as an Eco City.

Positioned a little south to central Kerala, Kottayam district is bordered on the north by Ernakulam district, on the east by Idukki district and on the south by Alappuzha and Pathanamthitta districts. The Vembanad Lake forms the western boundary. Kottayam lies between latitude 9o 15' and 10o 21' and longitude 76o 22' and 77o 25'.

Kunchan Nambiar, the father of Thullal, a popular temple art form, is supposed to have lived at Kidangoor. Unnineeli Sandesam, the exquisite Malayalam poetry work, is supposed to have been written by one of the Vadakkumkur Rajas. The Christian Missionaries enriched Malayalam literature by their valuable contributions in the 18th and 19th Centuries. Varthamana Pusthakam (1778) written by Paremmakkal Thoma Kathanar, on a travel to Rome, is the first travelogue in Malayalam. The first autobiography in Malayalam by Vaikom Pachu Moothathu was published from Kottayam in 1870.

In the concluding decades of the 19th Century and the beginning of the 20th Century, Kottayam shot into limelight as the nerve centre of all literary and cultural activities in the erstwhile Travancore State. Late Kottarathil Sankunny, Kandathil Varghese Mappilai, Kerala Varma Valiyakoi Thampuran, K.C. Mammen Mappilai, Kattakkayathil Cheriyan Mappilai, Vadakkumkoor Raja Raja Varma, Karoor Neelakanda Pillai, Vaikom Muhammed Basheer, D.C. Kizhakkemuri and Abhaya Dev are few names, in the category of outstanding dignitaries and celebrities, worth mentioning, who had made very valuable, substantial and individual contributions in their own way to the cultural and social milieu. Eminent writers Ponkunnam Varkey, Vaikom Chandra Sekharan Nair, distinguished Poet Mahakavi Pala Narayanan Nair, illustrious Kathakali artist Kudamaloor Karunakaran Nair, world renowned Booker prize winner Arundhathi Roy, accomplished film actor Mammootty, and talented film director Jayaraj are some other notable personalities who all hail from Kottayam district. Renowned music director L. P. R. Varma (Late ) also hailed from Kottayam
 

By one theory, Kottayam literally means the interior of a fort - Kotta + Akam. Rulers of Munjanad and Thekkumkur had their headquarters at Thazhathangadi in the present Kottayam town. Marthanda Varma of Travancore attacked Thekkumkur and destroyed the palace and the Thaliyil Fort. The remnants of the palaces and forts are still seen here.it is a major city in Idanaad

Kottayam District was a part of the erstwhile princely state of Travancore. Earlier, the Travancore state consisted of two revenue divisions viz. the southern and northern divisions, each under the administrative control of a 'Diwan Peshkar'. In 1868 two more divisions Quilon (Kollam) and Kottayam were constituted. The fifth division Devikulam came next, but was added to Kottayam. At the time of the integration of the State of Travancore and Cochin (Kochi) in 1949, these revenue divisions were renamed as districts and the Diwan peshkars gave way to District Collectors, paving the way for the birth of the Kottayam District in July 1949.

Kottayam has played its role in all the political agitations of modern times. The 'Malayali Memorial ' agitation is said to have its origin in Kottayam. The 'Malayali Memorial' sought to secure better representation for educated Travancoreans in the Travancore civil service. The Memorial, which was presented to the Maharaja Sri Moolam Thirunal (1891) was drafted at a public meeting held in the Kottayam Public Library. The event marked the beginning of the modern political movement in the State.

Vaikom, a taluk of Kottayam district is famous for the Vaikom Satyagraham (1924-25), an epic struggle for eradication of untouchability. Scheduled castes and other backward classes in Travancore were denied entry into temples and access to temple roads. National leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, C. Rajagopalachari, Acharya Vinoba Bhave and E.V. Ramswami Naykar associated with this struggle.

The 'Nivarthana' agitation of the early thirties, to secure adequate representation for the non-caste Hindus, Christians and Muslims in the State Legislature, enjoyed considerable support from this district.

The district was also a centre of the agitation led by the State Congress for responsible Government in Travancore. The agitation had a triumphant end, with the overthrow of Sir. CP Ramaswami Iyer, the Dewan of Travancore.

Kottayam stands first in the field of Education, Mass Communication, Printing and Book Publication. The significant role played by Malayala Manorama & Bhashaposhini and Deepika for the cultural and literary development is of immense importance. There are many printing presses and book publishing companies in Kottayam. The SPCS, a unique co-operation venture of authors and writers was started in the year 1945. Prominent publishers D.C. Books started publication from here in the year 1974. Kottayam is the headquarters of Current Books since the year 1977. It is estimated that 70% of the State's book publication takes place in Kottayam.

Places of Tourist importance in Kottayam

Kumarakom: An unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves interspersed with enchanting waterways and canals adorned with white lilies. Situated on the Vembanad Lake, in this small water world you'll come across plenty of traditional country crafts, boats and canoes which will take you into the heart of the scenic lake. The resorts nearby offer comfortable accommodation and exclusive leisure options like an Ayurveda massage, yoga, meditation, boating, fishing, angling and swimming.

The Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom (16 km from Kottayam town): Kottayam is a vast network of rivers and canals which empty into the great expanse of water called the Vembanad Lake. The lake, an enchanting picnic spot and a fast developing backwater tourism destination, provides boating, fishing and sightseeing experiences that are truly exhilarating. The Kumarakom Tourist Village offers houseboat cruises and holiday packages. The serene lake comes alive during Onam with a spectacular water regatta - the snake boat races. It is indeed amazing to watch oarsmen, at least a hundred in one boat, slice their way through the waters to the fast rhythm of their own full throated singing.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (16 km from Kottayam town): Located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, an ornithologist's paradise, is a favourite haunt of migratory birds like the Siberian stork, egret, darter, heron and teal. Other common varieties like the woodpecker, skylark, crane, water hen and parrots can also be spotted here. A cruise along the Vembanad Lake is the best way to experience the sanctuary. Pathiramanal, an enchanting island on the lake, can be accessed by boat from here.

Pathiramanal: This 10 acre island on the backwaters is home to many rare varieties of migratory birds from different parts of the world. According to mythology a young brahmin dived into the Vembanad Lake to perform his evening ablutions and the water made way for land to rise from below, thus creating the enchanting island, Pathiramanal (sands of midnight).

Reservoirs at Nattakom and Panachikad: Adding to the charm of these quiet villages are their scenic reservoirs escorted by vivid green all along. Migratory birds come seeking this verdant landscape every summer and frolic in the natural splendours till the end of the season. A boat ride from Kodoorar in Panachikad to Kumarakom is a great way to relax and enjoy nature's bounties. Facilities here cater to the recreation needs of tourists, from soothing Ayurvedic massages to boating, fishing and swimming.

Tourist Land, Vaikom: This is a quaint picnic spot ideal for a langorous break. Tourists can avail of recreation options in this place too. Boat cruises are available on the Vaikom Lake.

Mannanam Tourist Home: This was set up by the DTPC to provide quality accomodation to the holidaying crowd. An intricate network of shimmering waterways embroider the richly green landscape, making the land charming in every detail. Boat cruise packages are being thoughtfully designed to give tourists the most memorable experience. The enchanting journey will take you through the Pennar Canal to the picturesque backwater districts of Alappuzha and Ernakulam.

Anchuvilakku (22 km from Kottayam): This stone lamp post, a typical example of Kerala architecture, was built near the Changanacherry boat jetty by the renowned freedom fighter Veluthampi Dalawa. The Changanacherry market, one of the largest in Kerala, was also established by him. The five lamps on this post are lit using kerosene.

Nadukani: A picturesque location at the top of a hill with endless stretches of meadows girded by huge rocks. A bird's eye view of the low lying places can be enjoyed from here.

Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls ( 18 km from Kottayam town): 2 km down a mud lane from Kumarakom is this beautiful picnic spot where streams tinkle as they make their way through the landscape and waters roar as they cascade down the mountains from a height of 100 ft. Tourists can also enjoy the shade of the rubber plantations here.

Karimbukayam - Meloram: This quaint spot on the Manimala River that flows between the Kanjirapally (a plantation town) and Erumeli panchayats is much sought-after for its natural splendours. However what makes the place really popular are the occasional exotic water fiestas on the reservoirs organised by the enthusiastic people.

The natural reservoirs and waterfalls at Melaruvithodu on the Ernakulam - Thekkady road is in no way inferior to the other picturesque regions of Kottayam.

Erumeli (60 km north-east of Kottayam town): Nestled in the lush green Western Ghats is this nature-rich village. This is also the entrance point to South India's most prominent pilgrim centres - the Sabarimala Temple. At Kanakapalam nearby, teak plantations dot the landscape.

Vavarambalam, Erumeli : This mosque is dedicated to Vavar, a companion of the deity - Sree Ayyappa - of the Sabarimala temple. The mosque is unique in that Hindu pilgrims customarily worship here before their trek to Sabarimala. Festival: Pettathullal (January).

Maniyamkunnu: The majestic mountains here that slope down to meet the beautiful valleys below are truly spellbinding.

Kayyoor, Bharananganam: An enchanting landscape formed by a chain of green hills at the Bharananganam panchayat. A shrine dedicated to the Pandava brothers of the epic Mahabharatha is found here. As in the famous temple at Sabarimala, only ghee is used to light the lamps here. Women are not permitted inside the temple.

St. Mary's Church, Bharananganam: The mortal remains of the Blessed Alphonsa are entombed at this church which is now a famous pilgrim centre. Thousands gather at this holy shrine during the annual festival: Feast of the Blessed Alphonsa (July).

Ilaveezhapoonchira: Skirting the Kottayam district are beautiful valleys of Ilaveezhapoonchira, spread over thousands of acres. The verdant landscape punctuated by four gigantic hills, each rising to around 3200 ft., is an ideal place to unwind. During the monsoons when the valley fills up to form a scenic lake, this place unveils yet another beautiful slice of nature. Ilaveezhapoonchira means valley where leaves don't fall and is named so because the place has no trees. This is also one of the best places in Kerala to enjoy both the sunrise and sunset. A DTPC rest house nearby offers comfortable accommodation.

Kannadipara: As the name suggests, the valley of this rocky mountain reflects the morning sun with a mirror like perfection. This is also the highest point in Ilaveezhapoonchira. 3 km from here is the Pazhakakanam Plateau nourished by the Kadapuzha River. Bamboo groves, meadows and wild flowers make this place exotic. An added attraction here is the Kazhukankulimali Waterfalls that playfully cascade down the mountain and greet the river below with a magnificent splash. On the eastern side of Kannadipara is a natural fort set amidst steep rocks.

Mankallu Mudikal: The three hills in this region lie close to each other, their flat hilltops covered with lush grasslands. An aerial view of these resemble a traditional clay oven. With no trees around, the hilltops give you the feeling that you are walking in the clouds.

Illickal Mala: Numerous mountain streams in this peak, 6000 ft. above sea level, flow down to form the serene Meenachil River. The solitude, the tranquility, the gentle breeze and the star spangled sky here are all enchanting beyond words. Tourists have to trek up 3 km to reach the top of the hill. And if you so wish, you could even spend the night on the heights.

Illickal Kallu: Three hills, each rising to 4000 ft. and above, together form this huge hill. Each of the hills have a peculiar shape. One of them resemble a mushroom owing to which it gets its name Kuda Kallu (umbrella shaped rock). It is said that the medicinal herb Neela Koduveli, which bathes the hillsides in blue, grows here. This flower is also believed to possess supernatural powers which could increase wealth and ensure a rich harvest. The second hill, has a small hunch on the sides and is therefore referred to as Kuunu Kallu (hunch back rock). Across this rock is a 1/2 ft. wide bridge called Narakapalam (bridge to hell). From the hilltops, the Arabian Sea can be seen in the distant horizon as a thin blue line. The sunset on a full moon day is sensational, when the moon can be seen rising up like another sun, as the orange sun goes down.

Ayyappara: According to legends, the five Pandava brothers - epic heroes of the Mahabharatha - stayed near this rock, 2000 ft. above sea level and spread over 20 acres, during their exile. The name of the rock is said to be a modified version of the original term Anchupara (five rocks). However, some say that the name owes its origin to the Ayyappa Temple here. This temple has four pillars which support a flat piece of rock that forms the roof. On one side of the rock is a cave that can accommodate over 15 people. The sunset is beautiful from here. Above all, the cool mountain breeze does wonders to your mind and body.

Kolani Mudi: Yet another peak in the Ilaveezhapoonchira mountain range, which also has a cave.

Marmala Stream: This scenic stream and its breathtaking waterfalls are together referred to as the enchantress of the jungle. Sliding down numerous hillocks from a height of 200 ft., the gushing water has etched out over the years a deep pond in the rocks. Right under the waterfalls is a natural bridge.

Vazhikkadavu: On the outskirts of the district is this hill station of rocky terrains sought after for its pristine nature. On one side of the main rock are extremely tall and steep rocks and on the other is a valley of fearful depth. Bordering this crude landscape like a silver lace is the Meenachil River. During the months of December/January the landscape comes alive in a riot of colours with orchids and wild flowers.

Kurisumala: 3 km from Vazhikkadavu is this renowned Christian pilgrim centre where hundreds of devotees from far and near converge during the holy week and after, to climb the hill in faith, carrying small wooden crosses. The peaceful Jewish Monastry at the top of the hill, the silence of the hills, the cool mountain air and the lush green landscape are all soothing to the soul.

On the eastern side of the hill is Muruganmala housing a rock cut temple dedicated to Murugan (son of Lord Shiva). The road to Kurisumala offers some real sightseeing opportunities in a European model house and the beautiful artificial lake, both designed by the renowned architect, Laurie Baker.

Thangalppara: The mausoleum of Sheikh Fariduddin found here makes this place a famous Muslim pilgrim centre. Nearby is the scenic hill station of Kurathikallu and the beautiful Kottathavalam.

Kottathavalam: Near Murugan hills at Kurushumala, a flight of steps cut in the rocks takes one to this magnificent cave. Legends say that the royal family from Madurai rested here on their way to Poonjar. The rocks within the cave, carved like chairs and couches and the figures of Madurai Meenakshi, Ayyappa, Murugan, Kannaki and weapons sculpted on them, are all worth exploring.

Poonjar Palace: The palace is a glorious testimony to the regal opulence of a bygone era. Within the palace walls is an extraordinary royal collection of antiques and exquisite furniture which include a palanquin, a thoni - carved out of a single piece of wood - for Ayurvedic massages, huge chandeliers, palm leaf engravings, jewel boxes, different varieties of lamps, sculptures of Nataraja (dancing Lord Shiva), grain measures, statues and weapons. A unique conch preserved here is taken out once a year for ritualistic purposes. Near the palace is an amazing replica of the Madurai Meenakshi Temple. The walls of this temple bear sculptures which narrate stories from the Puranas (the legends of ancient India). However, the most fascinating thing here is the Chuttuvilakku (row of lamps) carved out on stone walls of the Sastha Temple nearby. Such rock cut lamps are rare in India.

Wagamon: This enchanting hill station on the Idukki - Kottayam border, dotted with tea gardens and meadows, will soon be one of India's foremost ecotourism projects. The breeding centre of the Kerala Livestock Board is located here.

Pala and Kanjirapally: Nourished by the Meenachil and Manimala rivers respectively, these two towns are centres of rubber plantations.

Vayaskara and Chirattamon: These places are well known for their Ayurvedic rejuvenation centres.

Kottayam is known for its religious harmony. There are over 50 temples and 70 churches including a 1000 year old mosque in this district. Besides, Kottayam is also the gateway to the pilgrim centres of Sabarimala, Mannanam, Vaikom, Ettumanoor, Bharananganam, Erumeli, Manarcad, Aruvithura, Athirampuzha and the temples of Perunna, Vazhapalli and Thrikkodithanam near Changanacherry.

St. Mary's Church, Cheriapalli (2 km of Kottayam town): Built in 1579 by Thekkumkoor Maharajah, this church displays outstanding architecture which is a blend of Kerala and Portuguese styles. The walls are adorned with beautiful murals made in oriental and western styles on biblical and non biblical themes.

Thazhathangadi Valiapalli (2 km from west of Kottayam town): Built in 1550 AD, this church belongs to the Knanaya Orthodox Syrian Community. The Persian cross, believed to be one of the seven brought here by St. Thomas, and the Pahlavi inscriptions of this church are famous.

Jama Masjid, Thazhathangadi (2 km from Kottayam town): This ancient mosque on the banks of the Meenachil River is believed to be 1000 years old. It is one of the oldest in India.

St. Mary's Church, Manarcad ( 8 km from Kottayam Town): This is one of the most important churches of the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Christians. The ettunompu (8 day fasting) is the main annual event when devotees from far and wide congregate to participate in the prayers and rituals.

Dharmasastha Temple, Pakkil (3 km from Kottayam town): This is one of the eight temples established by Parasurama, the legendary founder of Kerala. Annual festival: Sankranti Vanibhyam - a fair of household articles (June/July)

St. George's Church, Puthupalli: This church is believed to have been built by the Thekkumkoor Rajas. The golden cross in this church is well known. The feast of St. George (Gee Varghese) is the annual event.

Siva Temple, Thalikkotta (2 km from Kottayam): The place of worship of the ertwhile Thekkumkoor royal family. Annual festival - ten day utsavam (April-May), Sivarathri (January-February)

Mahadevar Temple, Ettumanoor ( 12 km north of Kottayam town): This temple is famous for its murals, especially the painting of Nataraja in the gopuram and ezharaponnana (the 71/2 elephants finished in gold) . Festival: Ezharaponnana ezhunallathu (10 days in February/March)

The CSI Cathedral Church, built over 175 years ago, is a monument from the British Era.

The Old Seminary, Marthoma Seminary and Vadavathoor Seminary proclaim Syrian and Roman Christian traditions.

The Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church has its headquarters at Devalokam, Kottayam.

St. Thomas Mount: This holy place of Christians is located 1200 ft. above sea level and offers a panoramic view of the Vaikom Lake and the surrounding areas.

Shiva Temple, Vaikom (40 km from Kottayam town): Associated with the legendary Parasurama, this temple is a typical example of the Kerala style of temple architecture. More popular as the Kasi of the South, this temple is famous for its elephant pageants and traditional art performances. Annual festival - Vaikathashtami (November/December)

St. Mary's Church, Kuravilangad: Built in 355 AD on the high ranges of Kuravilangad town, this church has an old bell which bears an undeciphered inscription.

St. Mary's Church, Athirampuzha : This church was built in 1080 AD and was renovated in 1874. The annual feast here celebrated in honour of St. Sebastian is a big event with fireworks and illuminations. Votive offerings of gold and silver arrows set this event apart from other festivals.

St. Mary's Church, Kudamaloor: This church, 800 years old, was built by Chempakasseri Maharajah. The ritual offering here is a traditional water bag and rope used to draw water from the well. The Kudamaloor Temple is equally famous.

St. Joseph's Monastery, Mannanam (Near Medical College): This church was built by the blessed Father Chavara Kuriakose Elias. The mortal remains of this saintly priest is preserved here. Thousands of devotees gather here to pay homage to the saint every day.

Kaduthuruthi Valiapalli (on MC Road between Ettumanoor and Vaikom): Built in 500 AD, the church has a huge cross sculpted out of a single stone at the entrance.

Vimalagiri Church: This temple built in the Gothic architectural style has a 172 ft. tower which is one of the tallest church towers in Kerala. The feast is celebrated in December.

St. Thomas Church, Pala: The church dates back to 1002 AD and was renovated once in the 18th century.

St. Thomas Church, Cherpungal: Believed to have been established by the apostle St. Thomas, this church was relocated to the southern banks of the Meenachil River with the cooperation of poet Kunchan Nambiar and his family. In 1107, the Valiapalli was built on the original site. Here oil poured into lamps kept before the image of Infant Jesus is the votive offering - a ritual similar to the devotional practices of Hindus.

Aruvithira Church (11 km from Kottayam): Believed to be one of the seven churches established by St. Thomas, this is also one of the churches in Kerala which collects the largest amount of monetary offerings during the festival days. The annual feast is celebrated on the 22, 23 and 24th of April.

Pazhayapalli, Changanacherry (21 km from Kottayam town): This 950 year old mosque is one of the most famous ones of Central Travancore. The annual festival, Thangal adiyanthiram, is well known and is marked by a grand community feast. Meat and two tonnes of rice, offered by the devotees, is used to prepare biriyani for the community feast on this day. The Chandanakuddam festival at the mosque is one of the largest crowd pulling events in Changanacherry town.

Thirunakkara Mahadevar Temple: In the heart of Kottayam town is this 500 year old temple built by the Thekkumkoor Maharajah. This temple built in the Kerala style of architecture has colourful murals on its walls which are worth exploring. The Koothambalam, the special building in the temple premises used for cultural purposes, is one of the best in Kerala.

Puthenpalli, Erattupetta: The famous Chandanakudam is celebrated here in February/December.

Saraswathi Temple, Panachikkad: This temple, also known as the Mookambika Temple of the South, holds the Saraswathi (goddess of learning and the arts) pooja every year in October/November. Children are initiated into the world of letters at the Vidhyarambham ceremony held here.

Surya Temple, Adityapuram: The only temple in Kerala dedicated to Aditya, the sun god. The first and last Sundays of the zodiacs Scorpio ( November- December) and Aries (April - May) are considered auspicious.

Bhagavathy Temple, Ambalakkadavu: The Arattu ritual of the Thirunakkara Mahadevar Temple takes place here. Festival: Vishu (April/May)

Pallipurathukavu: Festival: Patham udaya mahotsavam. Famous ritual offering: Nadel Thiyattu performance.

Bhagavathy Temple, Manarkad: Centuries old temple dedicated to goddess Bhadrakali. Main events: Kalamezhuthupattu, Kumbha bharani, Meena bharani, Patham udayam, Mandalam chirappu.

Kavil Bhagavathy Temple, Changanacherry (18 km from Kottayam): Built by one of the Thekkumkoor Maharajas. Festival: Kavil chirappu (December - January)

Sree Subramanya Swami Temple, Perunna (20 km from Kottayam): Festival: Pallimetta utsavam (November - December)

Siva Temple, Vazhappalli, Changanacherry ( 17 km from Kottayam): Famous for its sculptures.

Kalkulathukavu Temple, Vazhappalli: This temple is famous for its Mudiyeduppu utsavam (festival) celebrated once in 12 years and the rare art forms connected with it. The procession carrying madhu (honey), kulavazha (plantain tree with the fruit), bhairavi purapadu and darika vadha purappadu etc. is a grand affair.

Flower Show and Food Fest (Third week of January) Better Home Exhibition (October 2-6) Erumeli Petta Thullal (January) Highlights - Chandanakkudam at Vavarambalam, Petta thullal at the Sastha Temple, grand elephant pageants, band music, nadaswara melam, other musical ensembles and cultural programmes.
Vaikathashtami (November/December) Highlights - 12 day festival, Ashtami day most auspicious, elephant processions, musical ensembles, fireworks, Kathakali, Ottamthullal, Pathakam, Velakali and other music - dance performances. Ettumanoor Ezharapponnana (February/March) Highlights - Arattu ritual, procession of the ezharapponnana, elephant pageant, cultural performances. Puthurpalli Chandanakkudam, Changanacherry: The 2 day festival that begins on Christmas day. The Chandanakudam procession of five to seven tuskers begins from the Puthurpalli Mosque. Highlights: Cultural performances, musical ensembles, firework displays. Ponadu Chootu Padayani: Annual festival at the ancient Bhagavathy Temple in Meenachil taluk. Bunches of dry palm fronds (chootu) are lit and carried in procession around the temple before the performances. Padayani performers then hit each other with the burning chootu.