Kalpathy Ratholsavam Begins

Kalpathy Ratolsavam has begun with the Kodi Ettam ceremony on 7th November at about 10 am.
This famous function attracts crowd from various parts of the country as well the world!!

KALPATHY RATHOLSAVAM

Celebrated In : Palakkad, Kerala Centre of Activity : Kalpathy Temple Duration : A Week Main Attraction : Three Magnificent Chariots Bedecked with Flowers and Flags

The week-long annual festival of Ratholsavam (Chariot Festival) begins in the month of November, every year. Thousands of devotees haul the huge, intricately carved temple chariots through the streets.

Vedic ricitals are held in the temple throughout the festival. Throbbing with the Vedic chants sonorously recited by the Vedic scholars escorting the god, Kalpathy comes alive with the spirit of true devotion and joyous celebration. Perched on its lush green banks is the ancient Kalpathy Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. A pilgrim centre steeped in antiquity, the temple dates back to 1425 A.D. and is as revered in South India as Benares in the North India.

Located near Palakkad, this temple is believed to be over 700 years old. The festival is dominated by three magnificent chariots, bedecked with flowers and flags, each sanctified by the presence of the lord.

Teeming crowds of people and millions of hands try to reach out to be one of the privileged to have the honour of pulling the chariots, as they proceed in stately grandeur. DAY 1- Viswanatha Swamy in the small chariot(called Pallakku) taken through the streets of the 4 agraharams.

Lakshmy narayana Perumal

















SANGEETHOLSAVAM
Another attraction of the Ratholsavam where eminent artist perform.
DAY 1 carnatic music concert was given by Smt. Sowmya














By the end of the first day, the whole of Kalpathy is in festive mood.
The decoration work on the beautiful chariot has started (of Viswanatha Swamy) can be seen in the photo.
Kalpathy is gearing up for the CAR FESTIVAL!! :)