Fast, Fair and Festivals of India Fast, Fair and Festivals of India
OACHIRAKKALI
Celebrated In : Kollam, Kerala
Centre of Activity : Oachira, Temple
Main Attraction : Oachirakkali, A Mock Battle Dance
In the month of : June
The Oachira Temple is the venue of the famous Oachirakkali (Oachira dance) held in June, a sort of ancient choreographed mock battle. Unlike other temples, there is no shrine or idol at the oachira temple, located nearly 32 kms from Kollam.
The principal deity is a concept called Parabrahmam (Cosmic Consciousness). Rows of men dressed up in ancient soldier's constumes wave wooden swords and shields and advance and retreat to the rhythm of traditional drums.