Every year, during the Malayalam month of Karkidakam (July/August), the Vadakkumnathan Temple in Thrissur becomes the venue for a unique and fascinating event known as Aanayoottu, or the elephant feeding ceremony. This event, which draws thousands of devotees and tourists, is a vibrant celebration dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is revered at this ancient temple.

Aanayoottu is held to honor elephants, considered sacred animals in Kerala, and to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-faced deity believed to remove obstacles from one's life. The ceremony involves lining up elephants in a single row within the temple premises. Despite the intermittent rains of the monsoon season, crowds gather eagerly to participate in the feeding ritual, which is as much a spectacle as it is a religious observance.

The special feed for the elephants is meticulously prepared according to Ayurvedic principles and includes sugarcane, rice, ghee, coconut, jaggery, and Ayurvedic medicines. This nourishing mix is designed to enhance the health and well-being of the elephants. The feeding begins with an offering made by the chief priest to an elephant calf, symbolizing the commencement of the event.

The origins of Aanayoottu are deeply rooted in the cultural and religious traditions of Kerala. Elephants have always held a significant place in Kerala's temple festivals, and feeding them is considered an auspicious act. The Vadakkumnathan Temple, a classic example of Kerala's architectural style, becomes the focal point of this event, attracting large numbers of participants and spectators.

The ceremony is not just about feeding the elephants; it is also about the rich traditions and rituals that accompany it. The Gaja Pooja and the Ashtadravya Maha Ganapathi Homam are performed by 50 priests, led by the temple Tantri. These rituals involve the offering of 10,008 coconuts, 3,500 kg of jaggery, 1,500 kg of avil (beaten rice), 300 kg of malar (puffed rice), 100 kg of sesame, 75 kg of honey, sugarcane, and lemons.

The highlight of the event is the sight of unadorned elephants being worshipped and fed amid a multitude of people. The feeding session sees the elephants being given rice balls, pineapples, and other local produce, creating a festive atmosphere filled with joy and reverence.

Aanayoottu is more than just a festival; it is a celebration of the bond between humans and elephants, rooted in the belief that by honoring these majestic creatures, devotees can gain the favor of Lord Ganesha. The event culminates in a grand feast for around 7,000 attendees, making it a significant cultural and community gathering.

The Vadakkumnathan Temple, with its rich history and spiritual significance, provides the perfect backdrop for Aanayoottu. This festival not only highlights the importance of Ayurvedic rejuvenation therapies during Karkidakam but also showcases the deep cultural heritage of Kerala.