Paripally, 48 kms north of Thiruvananthapuram is noted for its Gajamela or Elephant pageant. Over 50 elephants are taken out on a ritual procession on the tenth day of the festival (February- March).
No celebration in Kerala is complete without an elephant pageant. The gentle giant has been revered like divinity and accorded the privilege of escorting the numerous gods and goddesses of this land. Until a few years ago many well-to-do families in Kerala owned an elephant which was considered a member of the household.
Significance
Cultural
ost festivals of Kerala feature spectacular elephant processions. The pooram and vela festivals are the best occasions to watch the majestic tuskers in all their caparisoned splendour.
Colourfully decked up elephants numbering fifteen to hundred or more line up on the temple premises. With mahouts atop them, holding high tinselled silk parasols (muthukuda) and swaying white tufts (venchamaram) and peacock feather fans (aalavattom) to the rhythm of the temple orchestra.
General Information
Unique Features
Another unique practice at this temple is that elephants are offered as Nercha (ritual offering to the deity for prosperity) by the devotees. Cultural programmes are held during the festival days. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Bhadrakaali.
Prime Attractions of Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram)
Aaranmula Boat Race
The Aaranmula Boat Race is staged each year in the scenic village of Aaranmula in August/ September. This river carnival is part of the Aaranmula Temple festival.
Varkala Beach
Varkala is a sea side resort, as well as an important Hindu centre of pilgrimage. High cliffs with rich mineral springs rise majestically from the coastline. The 2,000 year old Janardana Swamy Temple and the Nature Centre are the two main attractions here.
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