Detailed Information about Attuvela Mahotsavam & Its Importance

The God's own country of Kerala is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich states of India. Besides its unmatched natural beauty, the state is also known for its numerous festivals, both small and big which is celebrated with great spirit and enthusiasm, displaying the rich cultural and traditional heritage of Kerala. One such festival is Attuvela Mahotsavam, which is a kind of a grand water festival and is celebrated for two days. This festival is celebrated in the temple of Elankavu Bhagavathy located at Vadaya village, which is about 3 kms from Vaikom in the Kottayam district. This festival is celebrated somewhere during the month of March and April which is the Meenam month in the Malayalam calendar. It is quite different from other festivals of Kerala and holds great importance for the religious and cultural life of the locals. It is nothing less than any other major festivals of Kerala.

Legend has it that the Goddess of this temple, Elankavu Bhagavathy had a sister called Kodungallur Bhagavathy who came to meet her sister. Thus to commemorate this visit the festival was celebrated and this tradition is continued till today. During the festival the whole area erupts in celebration. The temple is beautifully decorated and is a real treat to the eyes. There is a beautiful and colourful procession by the devotes in beautifully lit canoes. These canoes float down the river Moovattupuzha creating a spectacular sight for the devotees and the spectators. Another highlight of this procession is the huge and beautiful replica of the Elankavu temple which is floated on the river. This is a majestic sight for the visitors. The procession is accompanied with traditional music. All this brings alive the rich culture and tradition of this beautiful land of the Gods.

This festival holds great significance for the life of the locals and their local deity. Hence it is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm. It is also an opportunity for the people to display their rich culture and tradition. If you are planning to attend this festival and witness one of the greatest marvels of Kerala's rich tradition and heritage, you can easily get here. Vaikom is very close from Ernakulum (30 km) and Kottayam (40 km). The nearest railway station is at Ernakulam and the nearest airport is at Cochin, the Cochin International Airport which is just about 50 kms away. Buses and taxis are easily available from different towns and cities of Kerala to Vaikom. Comfortable and decent places for accommodation are available at affordable prices. Since the date of the festival varies every year, it is advisable to first confirm the exact dates before planning your trip. However one thing that is certain is that it happens only in the month of March or April. Witnessing such beautiful and colourful festival may be a source of unlimited joy and pleasure. It will make you feel proud about the cultural heritage of humankind and how we celebrate our existence in different ways.