''The Kollam Pooram'' at Asramam Sree Krishna Swamy Temple, Kerala: Where devotion and native culture is blended

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Kollam Pooram festival, kerala thehindu.com

Above image: The Kollam Pooram was held in a grand manner on April15, 2023 after a gap of 7 years. The Puttingal fireworks tragedy that took place on April 10, 2016, at the Puttingal Devi Temple in Paravur, Kerala had impacted many places regarding the use of fireworks.  A firecracker explosion during a fireworks display resulted in the deaths of 109 people and injured over 280 others. The explosion caused extensive damage to the temple complex and surrounding area. The spark from the firework ignited the nearby firewoks store hore house and damaged the nearby areas...........

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Kollam Pooram festival, kerala. .holidify.com

Kollam Pooram, a vibrant temple festival of Kerala, India is a dazzling one showcasing a rich tapestry of cultural and religious traditions. Rooted in  centuries old tradition this festival that falls in mid April ever year  on the day after Vishu,  is a confluence of devotion and strong religious belief. The Kollam pooram was started in 1992 to bring the spirit  of the poorams to this part of Kerala to keep the deep-rooted religious belief and native culture alive..

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Asramam Sree Krishna Swamy Temple in Kollam,Kerala yappe.in

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Kollam Pooram festival, April.Keralainstagram.com

Most awaited religious event in this God's own country, the city of Kollam comes alive where the spectacular annual event takes place. It includes procession of caparisoned elephants, musical  performances particularly percussion  instruments native to the state, series of fire works that light-up the night sky, absolutely  fun for holidaying school children. The venue is the Asramam Sree Krishna Swamy Temple in Kollam. 

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Decorated elephants, Kollam pooram, AL.

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Pooram festival, Kollam, Elephants procession . .prokerala.com

In the last  decade or so Kollam pooram is gaining popularity  and almost on par with the famous Trissur Pooram festival and  draws thousands of devotees and spectators.Particularly,  these  participating elephants ranging from 30 to 50, adorned with ornate decorations, carry deities from nearby 13 temples, symbolizing their divine presence and power in one place, bringing in positivity.  The pooram commences after caparisoned elephants carrying the ‘thidambu.’  

Traditional Kerala percussion instruments like chenda, maddalam, and elathalam, create  devotional atmosphere. The rhythmic beats and melodies no doubt  resonate through the air, enhancing the spiritual fervor of the event.  Kudamattam, the most colorful event exchanging of parasols in a rhythmic way atop the elephants from other temples. In this captivating  event skills and proper training are essential. This take place in the presence of  large crowds. Neither the elephant riders nor the elephants don't show any sign of fatigue.   

Beyond the visual and auditory splendor, Kollam Pooram holds deep religious significance, an expression of gratitude to lord Sri Krishna and seeking his blessings. It is a celebration of the deities and a time for devotees to offer prayers for peace and prosperity . 

What is amazing is ,it promotes community bonds from diverse background, transcending  caste, creed, etc. , bringing people together in a shared cultural and spiritual space. It also serves as a platform to preserve and promote Kerala's unique art forms and traditions, passing them down through generations. Kollam Pooram is more than just a festival; it's a living testament to the enduring cultural and religious legacy of Kerala, embodying devotion, artistry, and communal harmony.

About the cultural programs include  Kathkal,Mohiniyattam and others. New entrants, it is said, also make their debut here

https://www.seawatersports.com/places/kerala/kollam-pooram

https://www.prokerala.com/news/photos//kollam-pooram-festival-109928.html

 https://www.onmanorama.com/travel/kerala/2025/04/06/kerala-tourism-temple-festivals-april-dates.html.