Pavakoothu Mahotsavam 2026

Pavakoothu Mahotsavam 2026 at Sree Purattil Bhagavathy Temple, Payyalur, Kollakode in Palakkad district, Kerala, is a grand traditional temple festival dedicated to the ancient art form of Tholpavakoothu (shadow puppetry). The festival will be celebrated from May 3 to May 16, 2026 featuring continuous cultural and devotional performances that highlight Kerala’s rich temple heritage.

One of the most unique attractions of this festival is the world-renowned Pavakoothu performance, which will be held daily from 11:00 PM to 3:00 AM. This rare ritual art form narrates episodes from the Ramayana using beautifully crafted leather puppets, illuminated behind a white screen, accompanied by traditional percussion instruments and chanting. The performances are led by the legendary puppeteer family of Kerala, including Padma Shri Ramachandra Pulavar and Rajeev Pulavar who represent the 11th generation of this sacred tradition.

🎭 Pavakoothu Performance

🔥 Ramayana Katha Puppet Show by Pulavar Family

🙏 Special Bhagavathy Devi Pooja & Deeparadhana

🥁 Traditional Chenda Melam & Melapattu

🌺 Annadanam for Devotees (Daily Free Food Offering)

Pavakoothu Mahotsavam 2026 Notice

📅 Pavakoothu Mahotsavam 2026 Schedule

Temple Opening Ceremony

The festival begins with the traditional opening rituals at Sree Purattil Bhagavathy Temple, invoking the blessings of Goddess Bhagavathy for a prosperous and divine celebration.

Flag Hoisting

The sacred flag hoisting ceremony marks the official commencement of Pavakoothu Mahotsavam 2026, accompanied by Vedic chants and devotional offerings.

Daily Pavakoothu Performance

Traditional Tholpavakoothu shadow puppet shows are performed every night from 11:00 PM to 3:00 AM, narrating the epic stories of the Ramayana.

Ramayana Katha Presentation

Renowned puppeteers including Padma Shri Ramachandra Pulavar and Rajeev Pulavar present powerful storytelling through puppetry, preserving Kerala’s ancient temple art tradition.

Special Devi Pooja & Deeparadhana

Special rituals and evening deeparadhana are conducted daily, offering prayers to Goddess Bhagavathy for peace, prosperity, and blessings to devotees.

Chenda Melam & Cultural Programs

Traditional percussion performances like Chenda Melam and other cultural art forms enhance the festive atmosphere of the temple celebration.

Annadanam

A large-scale Annadanam is organized daily, serving thousands of devotees visiting the temple during the festival period.

Festival Closing Ritual

The festival concludes with sacred closing rituals, marking the end of Pavakoothu Mahotsavam 2026 with divine blessings and devotional ceremonies.

Key Highlights of Pavakoothu Mahotsavam 2026

Pavakoothu Performance

Traditional Tholpavakoothu shadow puppet shows performed nightly from 11:00 PM to 3:00 AM narrating Ramayana episodes.

Pulavar Family Presentation

Special performances by Padma Shri Ramachandra Pulavar and Rajeev Pulavar, preserving the 11th generation puppet tradition.

Ramayana Storytelling

Epic narration of Ramayana through beautifully crafted leather puppets and traditional chanting.

Devi Pooja

Daily special rituals and Deeparadhana offered to Goddess Bhagavathy for divine blessings and prosperity.

Chenda Melam

Traditional Kerala percussion performances enhancing the festive and devotional atmosphere of the temple festival.

Annadanam

Free food distribution for devotees throughout the festival, serving thousands of visitors with devotion and care.

Pavakoothu Mahotsavam 2026

Location & Access

Venue: Sree Purattil Bhagavathy Temple, Palakkad

Nearest Town: Nandankizhaya (1 km)

Railway: Palakkad Junction Railway Station (10 km)

Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (70 km)

Road: The temple is well-connected via local roads from Palakkad town. Regular KSRTC and private buses, along with taxi and auto services, are available to reach Sree Purattil Bhagavathy Temple, Nandankizhaya, Kerala - 678507. Easily accessible from NH 544 and surrounding village routes.