Kerala, with its heavenly natural beauty, is a premium tourist destination. But what makes it even more unique is the richness of tradition, vibrant arts, and colorful festivals. One among those is the ‘Panchavadhyam’, a traditional orchestra originated in Kerala. Panchavadhyam is a magical harmony of 5 musical instruments. It is a pure temple artform. The orchestra consists of 4 percussion instruments Chenda, Timila, Madhalam & Ilathalam and one wind instrument, Kombu.

I had taken this snap while shooting at the Pareckattil Temple Annual festival (Pakal Pooram). It was a Devi temple in the village of Trikkakara ( Kochi). The procession ( Kettu Kazcha) was entering into the temple premises in the presence of an excited local crowd.  The fire lamps and fireworks illuminated the place even though it was half past midnight. The presence of  Theyyam, Ammankudam, Kaavadi, Elephants clad with ‘Nettipattam’ and the accompanying Panchavadhyam orchestra made the air electric. The increasing tempo of  ‘triputa taalam‘ ( rhythm ) after every full cycle was driving the crowd into a state of trance. The volunteers from the organizing committee helped me in getting space to shoot from every possible angle.

I have an advice to every traveler exploring Kerala. Do plan to participate in a Pooram (temple festival) while you are there. The brilliance of pyrotechnics, the magic of percussion music and the brilliant display of colors will leave you with an experience of a lifetime.

Location: Parackkad Devi Temple, Thrikkakara, Kochi