Anandappalli Maramadi Festivals, Kerala - ആനന്ദപ്പള്ളി മരമടി

A fascinating cultural fiesta, Maramadi is a popular agricultural festival of Kerala. It takes place in barren waterlogged paddy fields. The competition is fierce as men and their bulls representing different regions battle it out, cheered by thousands of enthusiastic onlookers.

A vast stretch of freshly ploughed paddy fields (kandams) forms the 'stadium' for the race. Excited villagers crowd around the 'stadium' to cheer the participants. A pair of oxen managed by three persons forms a participating unit. Nearly 30 such units participate in the race that starts at noon and continues up to dusk.

Like professional Jockeys these persons are also well trained and are experts in managing the oxen during the race. The oxen participating for these races are specially fed and trained.

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