Pooram declared open with Thekke Gopura Nada opening

Thrissur: Thrissur Pooram was declared open with the ceremonial opening of Thekke Gopura Nada (southern gate) of Vadakkunnathan Temple by elephant Ernakulam Sivakumar, which carried the idol of Naithilakkavu Bhagavathy, on Saturday. Pooram fans assembled at Thekkinkadu Maidan braving the scorching sun as Sivakumar emerged through the southern gate. The procession went up to the west gate where temple staff blew conch, formally declaring the arrival of the 32-hour-long Pooram from Sunday morning.Chamayakazhcha — the exhibition of elephant accoutrements — of Thiruvambady side also began on Saturday. The event was scheduled to begin on Friday but was postponed as a mark of respect to the victims of Mundathikode fireworks tragedy. Paramekkavu side began their chamayakazhcha on Friday.Organisers said there was a dip in the number of enthusiasts at the Pooram Vilambaram ritual this year, apparently in the backdrop of the Mundathikode tragedy. Hot weather conditions may have also contributed to it, they said.Organisers have also decided to drop the fireworks display to be held at the culmination of Pooram, in the backdrop of the tragedy. Kudamattam (exchange of parasols on elephants' top) has also been scaled down.Sunday's Pooram celebrations will begin in the morning with the procession of Kanimangalam Sastha temple to Vadakkunnathan Temple. The processions from the rest of the eight participating temples will follow. Notable events like Ilanjithara Melam and Madathil Varavu during processions will be held in traditional styles.Elaborate security arrangements have been made for the smooth conduct of Pooram. About 4,000 police personnel will be deployed. Health authorities have also taken measures to mitigate the impact of the hot weather conditions.