The Trivandrum Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the most revered temples in Kerala, celebrates several festivals throughout the year, each steeped in tradition and spiritual significance:
Alpasi and Meenam Utsavam: These two festivals occur in Tamil
Aipasi (October-November) and Malayalam Meena Masam (March-April) respectively,
each lasting for 10 days. The festivities commence with a grand flag hoisting
ceremony, inviting all gods and goddesses to participate. Special processions
are held around the temple twice daily, featuring the Utsava Moorthy of Bhgavan
Padmanabhaswamy on six different Vahanas: Simhasana, Anantha, Kamala, Pallaku,
Garuda, and Indra. The ninth day culminates in the Pallivetta ritual
symbolizing the Lord's descent to rid society of its afflictions.
Swargavathil or Vaikunta Ekadasi: Celebrated on the eleventh
day of the Shukla Paksha or waxing phase of moon in the month of Dhanu
(December-January), devotees observe rigorous fasts and dedicate the day to
worshipping Bhagavan Vishnu, believing that it liberates them from the cycle of
birth and death.
Vishu: Marking the Malayalam New Year, Vishu is celebrated
with fervor, featuring fireworks and the Vishukkani ritual, where auspicious
items like rice, fruits, and vegetables are arranged around the deity in the
inner sanctum.
Lakshadeepam: This unique festival occurs once every six
years and involves the recitation of holy Vedas for 56 days leading up to the
main event. On the auspicious day, one lakh lamps are lit around the temple,
creating a spectacular sight.
Onam: A grand festival commemorating the birth of Vamana
Avatar of Lord Vishnu and the homecoming of King Mahabali. Celebrated for ten
days in the month of Chingam, the Onavillu Charthal is a highlight, featuring
ceremonial bows adorned with miniature paintings of Bhagavan Vishnu.
Other Festivals: The temple also observes several other
important festivals including Ashtami Rohini (Sri Krishna Jayanti), Vinayaka
Chaturthi, Navratri, Maha Shivaratri, and Ram Navami, each adding to the rich
tapestry of cultural and religious celebrations at the temple.
These festivals not only uphold religious traditions but
also serve as vibrant cultural events that bring together devotees from far and
wide to celebrate the divine and experience spiritual upliftment.