Alpashi Utsavam

1. Alpashi Utsavam is an annual festival held at the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. It usually takes place in the Malayalam month of Thulam (October-November) and is one of the major temple festivals in Kerala. The festival lasts for ten days and includes several traditional rituals and processions.

Some key aspects of Alpashi Utsavam include:

1. Kodiyettam (Flag Hoisting): The festival begins with the ceremonial hoisting of the temple flag.
2. Special Poojas: Various rituals are conducted in honor of Lord Padmanabha, the main deity of the temple. Offerings like poojas, abhishekas (sacred baths), and other religious services are performed.
3. Aarattu (Holy Bath): The festival culminates with the Aarattu, a grand procession led by the royal family of Travancore, where the idol of Lord Padmanabha is taken to the Shangumugham Beach for a holy bath. This event is attended by devotees, priests, and members of the royal family.
4. Traditional Processions: Elaborate processions, featuring beautifully adorned elephants, traditional music, and dancers, are an eso               Alpashi Utsavam is celebrated withpñ great devotion and attracts a large number of devotees and tourists from all over. It reflects the rich cultural and religious heritage of Kerala.