The annual Padayani festival at Sree Bhagavathikunnu Devi Temple at Elanthoor, takes place in the Malayalam month of Kumbham. The festival begins with 'Choottu vaipu' on Bharani asterism and the padayani performance begins on Makariyam asterism and continues for 8 days. On the 8th day, the event is concluded with Valiya Padayani. The main attractions are ritual kolam procession and Thappumelam including different percussion instruments, Adavi, Vinodam (satire) and rare kolam performances.
Another highlight of Elanthoor Padayani is that from the first day to seventh day, 'Koottakolam' will perform along with the special kolams of here. Special kolams are scheduled as per offerings from the devotees. Koottakolam performance will begin only after a ritual 'Adantha' performance of Bhairavi kolam, on the first day.
Ganapathi, Shivakolam, Marutha, Sundara Yakshi, Kalan Kolam and Bhairavi kolam; rare kolams like are Rudra Marutha, Krinkkaali, Erinaga Yakshi, Karinaga Yakshi and Nina Bhairavi are the different types of Kolam included in Koottakolam performance.
Valiya Padayani at Elanthoor
On the 8th day, Valiya Padayani will be performed after 'Thavadi' group performance and Vinodam (Satire). The 'Vinodam' performance of Elanthoor padayani begins with Velichapadu, Paradeshi, Sharkkarakudam, Ammumma, Nampoothiriyum Vaalyakkaaranum, Pattarum Pennum, and Nayattu. Once the vinodam performances are over 'Kolam Thullal' begins. Other than Koottakolam, various kolams will perform during Valya Padayani day. These include, Kootta Marutha, Kuthira, Pakshi, Madan, Anthara Yekshi, Maya Yakshi, Arakki Yakshi, Kaanjiramala, and Mangala Bhairavi. The Bhairavi kolam performing on Valya Padayani is made up of 101 carved raw areca palm spathes.
The festival marks an end with the ritual of Pooppada followed by a circumambulation with burning 'Choottu'.
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