Cultural Kaleidoscope: Festivals and Fairs of Kerala

Exploring Kerala 

Exploring Kerala is like riding onto a thriving tapestry of deluxe greens, placid & calm backwaters and lavish cultural extravaganza. This isn’t just an awe-inspiring picture, but a vivacious world brimming with life. Lavish emeralds aren’t just painted on nature’s canvas; they happen to be the cool caress of palm trees swinging in the breeze along with the emerald embrace of spice estates packed with aromatic fragrances. Serene backwaters are not just about still water painted on the canvas of life, but they happen to be gentle lapping of water against the beautiful houseboats. You can float on these serene canals and witness the vibrant lives along the shores. Behind these picture-postcard immaculate beaches and Ayurvedic oases lies the ancient traditions thriving amidst a kaleidoscope of festivals and fairs of Kerala.

Kerala’s Cultural Kaleidoscope

Kerala’s cultural distinctiveness is a stunning tapestry woven from threads of varied influences. At its core lies a strong Dravidian foundation. This is evident in the region’s ancient languages like Malayalam & Tamil. The prime focus is on the matriarchal systems in some communities. Along with that, the interactions with spice traders from across the globe offers the state its distinctive cultural scenery. This rich base is continually deep now by dealings with the outside world. Such radiant spirit is best undergone through the numerous festivals and fairs of Kerala that offer a glance into the state’s core.

Over epochs, Kerala’s strategic location as a foremost spice trading centre attracted people from all around the world. Chinese, Europeans, Arabs, & even Jews had left their marks on the state’s cultural panorama. This shows in the influence of the Arabic world on the local cuisine here, with dishes like biriyani where the use of spices like cardamom & cloves defines it all. The architectural heritage also displays this blend, with mosques & churches standing beside traditional Hindu temples.

Festivals and Fairs of Kerala

The vibrant nature of cultural exchange is what makes Kerala truly distinctive. It is not a homogenous culture, but a superb amalgamation, where ancient traditions coexist with contemporary influences. This dynamism is best observed through a vast multitude of festivals and fairs of Kerala held all year round. Each of these celebrations is a dazzling spectacle of colours, music, & dance, bringing a window into the heart & soul of Kerala. 

• Onam (August/September): This ten-day harvest festival in Kerala happens to be a visual spectacle. People decorate their homes with elaborate flower arrangements (pookalams). Elaborate boat races (vallamkali) take the centre stage. A festive atmosphere prevails everywhere.
• Thrissur Pooram (April/May): Enjoy Kerala’s largest temple festival in Thrissur. Elephants adorned with embellished ornaments parade through the streets with the adjunct of powerful drumming & chants from devotees.
• Theyyam (All year round): This radiant ritual dance of North Malabar is an exceptional fusion of colourful costumes, captivating performances, and deep-seated faith.
• Attukal Pongala (February/March): This happens to be a women-only festival. People celebrate it at the Attukal Bhagwati Temple in Thiruvananthapuram. This festival involves the preparation of huge quantities of “pongala” (sweet rice porridge) for the deity.
• Kerala Arts and Crafts Mela (December/January): Submerse yourself in the state’s artistic heritage at this annual festival in Thrissur. From handcrafted mementoes to conventional performances, this event happens to be a true delight for art lovers.

Discover the magic of festivals and fairs of Kerala from the cosiness of Devi Royal Residency, a hotel providing ultimate comfort during your Kerala tour.