Thiruvonam draws large crowds to Pazhavangaadi temple in Thiruvananthapuram
A large number of devotees gathered at Pazhavangaadi Sree Maha Ganapathy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram on Thiruvonam, the final day of Onam.
Thiruvananthapuram witnessed a significant influx of devotees at the Pazhavangaadi Sree Maha Ganapathy Temple on Wednesday, as the city observed Thiruvonam, the concluding day of the ten-day Onam festival. The temple premises saw long queues of worshippers arriving for darshan, with visuals from the area capturing the traditional Kerala-style architecture and the vibrant atmosphere of the celebration.
Street processions featuring costumed performers added to the festive spirit, reflecting the cultural richness associated with the harvest festival. Thiruvonam marks the culmination of Onam, an annual celebration rooted in the legend of King Mahabali, a ruler remembered for his just and prosperous reign. The occasion also signifies the Malayali New Year and is a time for giving thanks for a bountiful harvest.
The festival is traditionally marked by colourful floral carpets known as pookkalams, the elaborate Onam Sadya feast served on banana leaves, and cultural performances such as Pulikali and Thiruvathirakali. Snake boat races, or Vallam Kali, are another hallmark of the season.
As Kerala celebrated Thiruvonam, political leaders extended greetings to people across the globe. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his wishes, noting that the vibrant festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm worldwide and expressing hope that it would further the spirit of happiness, togetherness, and prosperity.