Spirit undampened: Thrissur Pooram erupts in colour as shortened Kudamattam dazzles crowds

THRISSUR: Despite the trimming of certain rituals, including the fireworks display, in the wake of the Mundathikode tragedy, the fervour of Pooram lovers remains unshaken. Kudamattam, one of the Pooram’s flagship events, was restricted to just 15 minutes this year. Nevertheless, the ceremony took place before a massive "sea of humanity" at the Thekkinkadu Maidan. The Paramekkavu and Thiruvambady devaswoms competed fiercely, hoisting one stunning parasol after another into the sky. Due to the time constraints, both sides engaged in a rapid-fire display, quickly swapping out their vibrant umbrellas to maximise the limited window.

The transition to this spectacle began as the Ilanjithara Melam concluded earlier than usual, making way for the Thekkottirakkam (the southern descent), which serves as the prelude to the umbrella exchange. While the Kudamattam traditionally stretches across a grand hour and a half, the somber backdrop of the recent fireworks tragedy necessitated a condensed 15-minute version. The display commenced promptly at 6:00 PM and drew to a close by 6:20 PM, maintaining a brisk yet breathtaking pace that ensured the competitive spirit between the two factions remained fully intact for the gathered crowds.