Chettikulangara Bharani is a vibrant and grand festival celebrated at the Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple, located near Mavelikara in the Alappuzha district of Kerala. This annual festival takes place in the Malayalam month of Kumbham (February-March) and is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy, the presiding deity of the temple. The festival is known for its spectacular rituals, processions, and cultural performances, drawing thousands of devotees and visitors from across Kerala and beyond.
Table of Contents
The Splendor of Kettukazhcha
One of the most remarkable attractions of Chettikulangara Bharani is the Kettukazhcha, a grand display of towering structures intricately decorated with colorful fabrics, flowers, and ornaments. These enormous figures, some reaching up to 100 feet in height, symbolize the artistic devotion of the 13 ‘karas’ (regional communities) participating in the festival. The Kettukazhcha structures are classified into three main types:
- Theru (Chariot) – Tall wooden chariots adorned with intricate designs.
- Kuthira (Horse) – Gigantic horse figures representing valor and strength.
- Effigies of Bhima, Hanuman, and Panchali – Majestic representations of characters from Indian epics, adding mythological significance to the festival.
The procession of these structures to the temple is a visual spectacle, with thousands of people gathering to witness the colorful and artistic craftsmanship displayed through these magnificent figures.
Kuthiyottam: A Sacred Ritual
A unique and sacred ritual of the Chettikulangara Bharani is Kuthiyottam, performed as an offering to Goddess Bhagavathy. This ritual involves young boys, aged between 8 to 14 years, who undergo rigorous training and preparation under the guidance of temple authorities. As part of the ceremony:
- The boys have their bodies coiled with silver wires.
- They hold an arecanut-tipped knife above their heads.
- A grand procession, accompanied by traditional music, drum beats, and ornately decorated elephants, leads them to the temple.
- Along the way, they are showered with tender coconut water, signifying purification and devotion.
- Upon reaching the temple, the boys perform a ritual dance in front of the sanctum sanctorum, marking the culmination of this sacred tradition.
This intense yet spiritually uplifting practice reflects unwavering devotion and faith among the participants and their families.
Processions and Cultural Extravaganza
The festival is also famous for its mesmerizing night processions. Huge, elaborately decorated effigies of Bhima, Panchali, and Hanuman, along with tall chariots on wheeled platforms, are paraded through the town before being stationed in the paddy fields near the temple. As night falls, the idol of Goddess Bhagavathy is taken out in a majestic procession towards these effigies, creating a breathtaking spectacle of lights, colors, and devotion.
On the following day, these chariots and effigies are taken back, marking the conclusion of the grand celebrations. The festival also includes a large fair where people gather to enjoy local delicacies, shop for traditional items, and participate in various cultural activities.
More Than a Religious Event
Chettikulangara Bharani is not just a religious observance but a cultural extravaganza that unites people from all walks of life. The festival showcases Kerala’s deep-rooted traditions, artistic heritage, and spiritual vibrancy, making it an unforgettable experience for devotees and tourists alike. The grand celebrations, marked by colorful processions, musical performances, and sacred rituals, leave a lasting impression on everyone who attends.
Clearing Up Confusion
1. When is Chettikulangara Bharani celebrated?
Chettikulangara Bharani is observed in the Malayalam month of Kumbham, which falls between February and March. The exact date varies each year based on the Malayalam calendar.
2. What is the significance of Kettukazhcha in the festival?
Kettukazhcha is an important part of Chettikulangara Bharani, where enormous, artistically decorated structures are paraded to the temple. These towering figures symbolize devotion, community participation, and Kerala’s rich cultural heritage, making the festival a grand visual spectacle.
