Pakkil Vanibham captures the vibrant pulse of this time-honoured rural market in Kottayam. Every year, the grounds opposite the Dharma Sastha Temple are transformed into a tapestry of colour and commerce as people from across Kerala converge to participate in this unique month-long fair. The presence of women - both as buyers and sellers - underscores the market's role as a gathering space for shared stories, traditions and a celebration of Kerala's enduring heritage.

Pakkil Vanibham is more than just a market - it is a living festival that comes alive with the break of dawn, stretching late into the night. Stalls overflow with traditional wares - reed baskets, winnows, screw pine mats, stone and mud vessels and a variety of home essentials - each echoing the artistry and ingenuity of Kerala's craftspeople. The fair is famed for its assortment of high-quality goods offered at bargain prices, and the lively interactions between women customers and women vendors bring an extra layer of warmth and familiarity to the scene.

This tradition traces its origins to a local legend which involves Lord Parasurama and the legendary Pakkanar, whose annual trade in household wares gave birth to the market and even its name. Women play a central role in this living tradition, skilfully negotiating prices, exchanging laughter and keeping alive the communal spirit that defines the marketplace.

As one navigates through the lively lanes of Pakkil Vanibham, the sounds of bargaining, the array of ethnic wares, and the scent of fresh earth all blend together, evoking nostalgia for Kerala's rich rural past. In a world where old customs are often forgotten, the enduring sight of women at the heart of the market, selling and sharing, reminds us of the lasting importance of tradition, community and the simple joys of human connection.