The Thiruvonam Mahotsavam at Thirumullavaram Sree Mahavishnu Swamy Temple in Kollam is one of the most revered and vibrant temple festivals dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Kerala. Celebrated with deep devotion and traditional grandeur, the festival begins with the sacred Kodiyettam performed during an auspicious muhurtham marking the commencement of days filled with spiritual rituals and cultural splendor.
Throughout the festival, devotees participate in important ceremonies such as Utsavabali, Mahaprasada Oottu and the majestic Thiruvabharana Ghoshayatra which carries the sacred ornaments in a grand procession. The temple premises come alive with devotional fervor, traditional percussion performances and beautifully arranged Deepalankaram creating a divine atmosphere.
One of the most captivating highlights is the Kettukazhcha where decorated structures, temple art forms and vibrant displays reflect Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. The Pallivetta ritual symbolizes the divine hunt followed by the grand Thiru Aarattu where the deity is ceremonially taken in a procession to the sea for the holy bath.
The festival concludes with Kodiyirakkam leaving devotees with a sense of spiritual fulfillment and lasting memories.
🕉️ Sacred Kodiyettam Ceremony
🚩 Thiruvabharana Ghoshayatra
🏵️ Kettukazhcha Festival Display
🏹 Pallivetta Ritual
🌊 Thiru Aarattu Procession
Flag hoisting at auspicious time marking the start of the festival.
Traditional offerings and rituals in the temple premises.
Divine feast offered to devotees as part of festival celebrations.
Procession of sacred ornaments with traditional music and devotees' participation.
Symbolic divine hunt ritual marking the victory of good over evil.
Darshan available from 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM as the temple opens for devotees.
Grand display of decorated elephants, effigies, and procession elements.
Procession from temple to Aarattu ghat for sacred bathing ritual of the deity.
Musical offerings by Smt. Parvathi Hariharasubrahmanyam & Kumari Ardra Biju.
Procession continues with cultural performances, music, Thiru Aarattu return, and concluding with Thrikodiyirakku flag lowering ceremony.
The ceremonial flag hoisting marks the auspicious start of the festival, inviting blessings of Lord Vishnu.
Divine feast served to devotees, symbolizing sharing of blessings and community togetherness.
Traditional offerings and rituals performed at the temple, invoking prosperity and protection for all devotees.
The grand procession of sacred ornaments, accompanied by music, devotees, and decorated elephants.
Elaborate festival display featuring decorated elephants, effigies, and traditional artwork in the temple grounds.
The ceremonial bath of the deity in the sea, marking the climax of the festival with devotion and grandeur.
Vibrant musical and cultural performances that celebrate tradition and entertain devotees throughout the festival.
The symbolic divine hunt, signifying the triumph of good over evil, performed with grandeur and devotion.
The ceremonial flag lowering marks the conclusion of the festival, bringing the festivities to a divine close.
Venue: Thirumullavaram Sree Maha Vishnu Swami Temple, Kollam
Nearest Town: Kollam (5 km)
Railway: Kollam Junction Railway Station (5 km)
Airport: Trivandrum International Airport (65 km)
Road: Well connected via NH 66; regular bus and taxi services available