Kettukazcha at Poruvazhi Malanada Temple

Kettukazcha at Poruvazhi Malanada Temple

Adoor, Pathanamthitta.

Kettukazcha is the procession of large and beautifully decorated motifs of mythological characters, horses, bulls etc. A votive offering to the deity, these elegantly decorated motifs are made in a competitive spirit by the people of the various villages and localities around the shrine.The biggest among these, structures is usually 70 to 80 feet tall. They are either carried on the shoulders or placed on chariots to be taken around the shrine. Some historians are of the opinion that the Kettukazcha is a remnant of the Buddhist cult which was prevalent in the State during the 3rd century B.C.

Malanada is a peculiar shrine where there is no idol, sanctum santorum or temple building. The presiding deity here is Duryodhana, the antagonist in the epic Mahabharatha. This colourful festival which attracts hundreds of devotees is a striking example of the traditional celebrations of rural Kerala.