The Prathishta Varshika Mahotsavam 2026 at Vandiyottukonam Sree Bhadra Sastha Temple located in Kunnathukal, Thiruvananthapuram is a spiritually vibrant and culturally rich celebration held from April 17 to 21, 2026. This annual festival is dedicated to Lord Dharma Sastha and Goddess Bhadrakali revered as the embodiment of divine power and protection. The temple has long been a center of devotion, faith and prosperity for the local community.
The festival features a series of sacred rituals such as Ganapathi Homam, Abhishekam, Ushapooja, Bhagavathi Seva and the grand Kalasha Pooja & Kalashabhishekam performed under the guidance of the temple Tantri. One of the major highlights is the Elephant Procession accompanied by traditional art forms like Thayambaka and Nadaswaram creating a divine and festive atmosphere.
Devotees also participate in auspicious offerings like Pongala, Pushpabhishekam, Kumkumabhishekam, and Bhasmabhishekam. The festival is enriched with vibrant cultural programs including Thiruvathira, Kaikottikali, dance performances and devotional music events. Special events like Nagarootu with Pulluvan Pattu and Annadanam further enhance the spiritual significance.
🐘 Elephant Procession
🔥 Ganapathi Homam
🌸 Pongala & Kalasha Pooja
💃 Thiruvathira & Cultural Programs
The Prathishta Varshika Mahotsavam 2026 begins on April 17, 2026 with temple opening at 5:00 AM followed by Nirmalyam Darshan and Abhishekam. Ganapathi Homam, Neyyabhishekam, Ushapooja, Harinama Keerthanam, and Annadanam are performed. In the evening, Malar Nivedyam, special poojas, Bhagavathi Seva, and cultural programs including Thiruvathira, Kaikottikali, Gokula Sandhya, and cultural conference are held.
On April 18, 2026, the day includes Ganapathi Homam, Ilaneer Abhishekam, Ushapooja, and Annadanam. Evening rituals feature Bhagavathi Seva, Kumkumabhishekam, special poojas, and cultural performances like classical fusion, Thiruvathira, Kaikottikali, and devotional programs.
On April 19, 2026, the grand elephant procession takes place with Thayambaka, Nadaswaram, and Chenda Melam. The procession passes through Mannamkode, Aravilakam, Vandithadam, Kurukshetra Nagar, Elavankuzhi, Ambayinthala, Narani, Kalayil, and nearby areas before returning to the temple. The day also includes Ganapathi Homam, Annadanam, and evening poojas.
On April 20, 2026, Nagarootu ritual with Pulluvan Pattu is performed in the morning along with Ganapathi Homam, Ushapooja, and Annadanam. Evening includes Bhagavathi Seva, Pushpabhishekam, Thiruvilakku Pooja, Kaikottikali, Thiruvathira performances, and devotional programs.
On April 21, 2026, the final day features Kalasha Pooja and Kalashabhishekam under the Tantri, Pongala, and special offerings. Evening programs include Bhagavathi Seva, Mega Thiruvathira & Kaikottikali, Bhasmabhishekam, Mantramurthi Pooja, and dance drama performances. The festival concludes with Athazha Pooja and Harivarasanam.
The grand highlight of the festival is the Elephant Procession held on April 19, 2026, accompanied by traditional art forms like Thayambaka, Chenda Melam, and Nadaswaram, passing through sacred temple routes.
A major spiritual attraction of the festival is the Kalasha Pooja & Kalashabhishekam performed under the guidance of the temple Tantri, along with sacred Pongala offering by thousands of devotees on April 21, 2026.
Every day of the festival begins with sacred rituals like Ganapathi Homam, Abhishekam, Ushapooja, and Bhagavathi Seva, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere at the temple.
The festival showcases vibrant cultural events including Thiruvathira, Kaikottikali, classical fusion performances, dance dramas, and devotional music programs organized by various cultural groups.
Daily Annadanam and community offerings make the festival special, with devotees actively participating in various rituals, donations, and temple service activities.
Venue: Vandiyottukonam Sree Bhadra Sastha Temple, Trivandrum
Nearest Town: Kunnathukal – (5 km)
Railway: Neyyattinkara Railway Station – (12 km)
Airport: Trivandrum International Airport – (35 km)
Road: Well connected via Kunnathukal–Parassala road and major routes of Thiruvananthapuram district. Regular KSRTC and private buses, taxis and auto services are available to Vandiyottukonam Sree Dharma Sastha Temple, Kunnathukal, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695504.