Peruvanam

Peruvanam is a village located in the Thrissur district of Kerala, India. It is primarily known for the Peruvanam Pooram, one of the largest and most famous temple festivals in Kerala.

Peruvanam Pooram:

The Peruvanam Pooram is an annual temple festival held at the Peruvanam Mahadeva Temple. It is renowned for its spectacular display of caparisoned elephants, traditional music (primarily percussion ensembles known as panchavadyam and melam), and vibrant cultural performances. The festival typically takes place in the months of March or April. The Pooram is distinguished by its emphasis on traditional rituals and its relatively more austere aesthetic compared to other large Pooram festivals like Thrissur Pooram. A key feature of the Peruvanam Pooram is the participation of several neighboring temples, each bringing their own deities and elephants to the festival grounds. The festival culminates in a grand fireworks display.

Peruvanam Mahadeva Temple:

The Peruvanam Mahadeva Temple is an ancient Shiva temple that serves as the focal point of the Peruvanam Pooram. The temple architecture reflects traditional Kerala style. While the specific history of the temple is subject to some debate, it is widely considered to be one of the oldest and most significant temples in the region.

Culture and Tradition:

Beyond the Pooram, Peruvanam retains a strong connection to traditional Kerala culture, particularly in its music, dance, and religious practices. The village's identity is deeply intertwined with the temple and the annual festival.