ERNAKULAM: Marking the vibrant beginning of Kerala’s Onam festivities, the grand Athachamayam celebrations resonated through Tripunithura. Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan inaugurated the Athachamayam procession. Featuring traditional art forms from across the state, the procession immersed Tripunithura city in a festive spirit.
The Chief Minister inaugurated the Athachamayam rally and cultural events at Atham Nagar, situated on the Government Boys’ School grounds in Tripunithura. Actor Jagadish and Minister Anoop Jacob jointly flagged off the procession. In his inaugural address, the Chief Minister assured that Tripunithura would be developed into a heritage city.
Tableaux depicting Mahabali and Vamana, along with participants dressed as various iconic cinema characters, captivated the festival grounds. Artists and spectators alike immersed themselves in the rhythmic beats of chenda melam, band music, and various other traditional instruments.
Over 2,000 artists and students from different parts of the state participated in the parade, presenting countless folk forms including Pulikali, Thiruvathira, Theyyam, Lotus Dance, and Alamikkali.
Hundreds of people lined the streets to welcome the art forms arriving to the accompaniment of traditional percussion instruments. As people crossed communal divides to join hands, the royal city of Kochi once again turned into a grand stage for history and rich culture.
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