|
|
| KALPATHY
RATHOLSAVAM |
|
| Celebrated In
:
Palakkad, Kerala |
|
| Centre of
Activity :
Kalpathy Temple |
|
| Duration :
A Week |
|
| Main
Attraction :
Three Magnificent Chariots Bedecked
with Flowers and Flags |
|
|
|
| The week-long annual festival
of Ratholsavam (Chariot Festival) begins in the month of November, every year.
Thousands of devotees haul the huge, intricately carved temple chariots through
the streets.
|
|
Vedic ricitals are held in the
temple throughout the festival. Throbbing with the Vedic chants sonorously
recited by the Vedic scholars escorting the god, Kalpathy comes alive with the
spirit of true devotion and joyous celebration.
Perched on its lush green banks is the ancient Kalpathy Temple, dedicated to
Lord Shiva. A pilgrim centre steeped in antiquity, the temple dates back to
1425 A.D. and is as revered in South India as Benares in the North India. |
 |
|
|
| Located near Palakkad, this
temple is believed to be over 700 years old. The festival is dominated by three
magnificent chariots, bedecked with flowers and flags, each sanctified by the
presence of the lord. |
|
| Teeming crowds of people and
millions of hands try to reach out to be one of the privileged to have the
honour of pulling the chariots, as they proceed in stately grandeur. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
