Parippalli Gajamela Festivals - പാരിപ്പള്ളി ഗജമേള

Parippalli Gajamela is part of the annual festival of Kodimoottil Sree Bhagavathi Temple, located at Parippalli in Kollam district.

The ten-day festival that falls in the month of Kumbham (February-March) is a grand event. Colourful processions complete with elephant pageantry and Thalappoli (women in traditional attire holding lighted lamps in decorated platters) add charm to the festivities. On the ninth day of the festival Kuthiyottam, the ritual in which devotees attach metal rods to their body, is held.

Gajamela, an assembly of caparisoned elephants, marks the grand finale of the festivities. The Gajamela is a tribute to the presiding deity, Bhadrakali. About 50 tuskers line up for the pageant. Traditional drum orchestras and cultural programmes are also held.

The festival of this temple dedicated to goddess Bhadrakaali is famous for the Gajamela or elephant pageant. Over 50 elephants are taken out on a ritual procession on the ten day of the festival. Cultural programmes are held during the festival days.

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