Attukal Pongala Festival

Introduction to Attukal Pongala

The Attukal Bhagavathy temple celebrates Pongala Festival and that is called the Attukal Bhagavathy. One of the important religious festivals of Kerala celebrated in Trivandrum, the Attukal Pongal is celebrated religiously in this temple in the presence of a number of devotees.

Time of Celebration of Attukal Pongala

Held during the month of February and March it is held annually in Kerala and celebrated with lot of fun and fervor.

Description of Attukal Pongala

The Pongala Mahotsavam is held in Attukal Bhagavathy Temple and is considered to be a sacred ritual. A ten day festival it starts according to the Malayalam month of Makaram-Kumbham and closes with the sacrificial offering of Kuruthitharpanam. Observed by lakhs of women, this Attukal temple turns into the "Sabrimala for women" on these days of the Attukal Pongala. The Attukal Pongala is observed strictly by the womenfolk. Amidst much fun and fervor the women cook the rice porridge with jaggery and coconut and offer it to the Goddess.

The Attukal Bhagavathy Temple was built years ago by the local family. This family was believed to have had a vision of the Goddess in the dream and it was according to her wish that they built this temple. It is also believed that the deity of the temple was an avatar of the Kannaki. According to legends the local women, have made the Pongala in to propitiate Kannaki.

During the Pongala festival, women dress in their best clothes and offer their prayers at the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple. The religious songs even continue for 9 days of the festivals along with the other celebrations. The Devi's sword is carried by the chief priest and he blesses the ladies by sprinkling holy water and showering flowers. The blessed Pongala is then distributed amongst the devotees.

Indianholiday provides detailed, online information on the Attukal Pongala as well as for other festivals in Kerala and other parts of India and also offers online booking for a visit to the Attukal Pongala Festival.