Chithirai Thiruvizha Anizham Aarattu Mahotsavam 2026

The Chithirai Thiruvizha Anizham Aarattu Mahotsavam 2026 at the Oottara Sree Chidambaranatha Temple, located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala is one of the most sacred and vibrant temple festivals celebrated with deep devotion and traditional grandeur. This auspicious festival will be held from April 24 to May 03, 2026 attracting devotees from across the region.

Known as Dakshina Chidambaram, the temple follows a unique blend of Tamil and Kerala ritual traditions, making the festival spiritually rich and culturally diverse. The celebrations begin with the Kodiyettu, marking the commencement of the festival followed by a series of daily poojas, special abhishekams, homams and offerings to the deities.

Major highlights of the festival include the Nirapara procession, Kavadi procession, Pallivetta (sacred hunt ritual), and the grand Aarattu ceremony which signifies the ceremonial holy bath of the deity. Each ritual is accompanied by traditional temple art forms such as Panchavadyam, Nadaswaram, devotional music and classical dance performances. The festival also emphasizes community participation through Annadanam, cultural programs and spiritual discourses. Devotees believe that participating in this festival brings divine blessings, prosperity, and spiritual fulfillment.

🚩 Kodiyettu

🌾 Nirapara Procession

🪶 Kavadi Procession & Abhishekam

🏹 Pallivetta

🌊 Aarattu

Chithirai Thiruvizha Anizham Aarattu Mahotsavam 2026 Notice

📅 Chithirai Thiruvizha Anizham Aarattu Mahotsavam 2026 Schedule

Festival Inauguration & Kodiyettu

The festival begins with Palliyunarthal and Nirmalyam Darshan, followed by Ganapathi Homam, Usha Pooja, and special rituals. In the evening, the ceremonial Kodiyettu (flag hoisting) takes place after Deeparadhana, marking the grand beginning of the festival along with cultural programs and devotional events.

Special Poojas & Cultural Programs

The day includes special Abhishekam, Ganapathi Homam, Ayilya Pooja, Kalamezhuthu, and devotional singing. Annadanam (community feast) is conducted, followed by spiritual discourses, deeparadhana, and various cultural performances.

Nirapara Procession

The sacred Nirapara procession is conducted where the deity is taken through nearby areas accompanied by traditional rituals and offerings. Devotees welcome the procession with lamps and offerings, followed by classical dance and devotional programs in the evening.

Nirapara Continuation & Cultural Events

The procession continues through different routes, blessing devotees along the way. The evening features musical programs, Ganamritham, and traditional drama performances enhancing the festive atmosphere.

Spiritual Competitions & Devotional Programs

The festival includes children’s spiritual and cultural competitions such as devotional songs, recitations, and speeches. Evening programs feature classical dance performances and devotional music concerts along with regular poojas and annadanam.

Thiruvuttsavam

Rituals include lighting of sacred lamps, special poojas, bhajans, and Thiru Oottu offerings. Pradosha Pooja is performed in the evening along with cultural meetings and traditional Kaikottikali dance performances.

Kavadi Procession

A grand Kavadi procession takes place with vibrant traditional art forms and floats, accompanied by temple music. The evening includes Kavadi Abhishekam, devotional rituals, and cultural dance programs.

Thirukkalyanam & Palliyara Pooja

The divine wedding ceremony of the deity is conducted with special offerings and rituals. Palliyara Pooja is held at night following traditional temple customs with devotional music and spiritual ceremonies.

Pallivetta Ritual

The sacred Pallivetta is conducted with a grand procession and traditional temple music. Devotees actively participate and offer special contributions during this important ritual.

Aarattu & Festival Conclusion

The festival concludes with the grand Aarattu ceremony where the deity is taken in procession for the holy ritual bath. This is followed by Panchavadyam, Maha Nivedyam, Mangala Pooja, and final closing ceremonies marking the end of the Mahotsavam.

Key Highlights of Chithirai Thiruvizha Anizham Aarattu Mahotsavam 2026

Kodiyettam Ceremony

The grand festival begins with the sacred Kodiyettam marking the auspicious start of the celebrations along with special poojas and deeparadhana.

Ganapathi Homam & Rituals

Daily rituals include Ganapathi Homam, Abhishekam, and Usha Pooja, performed with devotion to seek blessings and prosperity for devotees.

Nirapara Procession

The sacred Nirapara procession carries the deity through surrounding areas, where devotees welcome with lamps, offerings, and prayers.

Kavadi & Cultural Processions

The vibrant Kavadi procession along with traditional art forms, Panchavadyam, and temple music adds grandeur and energy to the festival.

Pallivetta Ritual

The symbolic Pallivetta is performed with a grand procession, representing the victory of good over evil.

Aarattu Ceremony

The festival concludes with the sacred Aarattu followed by Maha Nivedyam and Mangala Pooja, marking the divine completion of the Mahotsavam.

Chithirai Thiruvizha Anizham Aarattu Mahotsavam 2026

Location & Access

Venue: Oottara Sree Chidambaranatha Temple, Trivandrum

Nearest Town: Balaramapuram – (1 km)

Railway: Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station – (18 km)

Airport: Trivandrum International Airport – (22 km)

Road: Well connected via Vizhinjam – Poovar Main Road and nearby local routes; regular KSRTC and private buses, taxis, and auto services are available to Oottara Sree Chidambaranatha Temple, Oottara, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695526