THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The District Collector has declared a regional holiday in Thiruvananthapuram district on March 13 in connection with the Pongala festival at the Attukal Bhagavathy temple. District Collector Anukumari announced that all educational institutions, government and semi-government institutions in the district will remain closed on that day.

The Pongala festival at the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple will begin on March 5th at 10 am with the Kappuketti kudiyiruthal ritual. The festival will conclude on the 14th at 10 pm with the kappazhikkal ritual. Pongala is on the 13th. The art programs will be inaugurated by film star Namitha Pramod at 6 pm on the 5th.

On the fifth day of the festival, March 9, a Panchari melam will be held at the temple under the leadership of actor Jayaram. More than 101 instrumentalists will participate. On the 6th, at 10 pm, there will be a musical event in 'Amba' led by film star Jayaraj Warrier and playback singer Kallara Gopan.

Musical evening led by ADGP Sreejith on the 7th at 6.30 pm. Dr Mano's Isai Mazhai on the 10th and folk songs led by Atul Narukara at 10 pm. A mega band led by playback singer Harishankar on the 9th and Tala Mela Mega Show led by actresses Padmapriya, Miya and Priyanka Nair on the 11th.

The Kuthiyottam fast will begin at 9.15 am on the third day of the festival, the 7th. The Pongala fire will be lit at 10.15 am on the 9th day of the festival, 13th March. Nivedyam at 1.15 pm. Kuthiyottam will be held at 7.15 pm, and the purathezhunnalethu will be at 11.15 am.