25/08/2017
Today kerala celebrating Athachamayam.
Tripunithura, which is about 7kms from the heart of Kochi, has always had a distinct charm. A drive through this town will take you past some old buildings and remains of forts, which speak of a proud bygone era. Tripunithura was the home of the ruling kings of erstwhile Kochi kingdom, before the state of Kerala was formed. The Hill Palace and the Sree Poornathrayeesa temple adds to its rustic charm.
Tripunithura has always been a cultural hub. Arts, music and various art forms flourished here under the rule of the kings and even later. On a normal day, Tripunithura is just another ordinary town in Kerala. But come Chingam and this town wears a whole different look. For, it is time for the unique 'Athachamayam' festivities.
The Athachamayam is a cultural extravaganza, which kick-starts the 10-day Onam celebrations. The main attraction is the parade. Folk art forms such as Theyyam, Kummatti, Kolkali, Mayilattom, Karakattom, Kummi, Poykal, Ammankudam, Pulikkali, Kathakali, Aattakkavadi, Panchavadyam, Chendamelam are displayed in the parade. Floats depicting immortal moments from epics such as Mahabharatha and Ramayana and current social issues reflect the secular nature of the festival, highlighting unity and harmony. Myths and legends of yore in the forms of gods and goddesses lend colour and diversity to the event.
