Nenmara Vallangi Vela

Annually celebrated at the Nellikulangara Bhagavathy Temple in Palakkad, the Nenmara Vallangi Vela festival is a spectacle of vibrant colors, dazzling lights, fireworks, and mesmerizing art forms. Taking place in the enchanting backdrop of the hills surrounding the Nelliyampathy forest, this festival in the Nenmara and Vallangi villages of Chittur taluk is renowned for its grandeur and rituals.

Held after the paddy harvest, the Vela marks the presumed birthday of the presiding deity, Nellikulangara Bhagavathy, falling on the 20th day of the Malayalam month of Meenam. While Nenmara and Vallangi each have their own temples, the Vela brings them together at the common Nellikulangara Bhagavathy Temple.

What adds zest to the celebration is the friendly competition between the two villages, as they strive to outdo each other, creating a captivating atmosphere. The festival showcases unique sights, and attendees are treated to remarkable art forms like Kummatti, Karivela, and Andivela.

On the 20th day, grand processions featuring caparisoned elephants make their way from both villages to the Nellikulangara Temple. Upon reaching the temple, a captivating display of the panchavadyam, a traditional Kerala orchestra, unfolds. Villagers from Nenmara and Vallangi stand facing each other beneath the utsavapandal (festival stage), fervently performing various traditional percussion ensembles, aiming to outshine their counterparts.

The festival also highlights beautifully decorated aanapandal structures used to house the elephants, adding to the visual splendor of the event. The Nenmara Vallangi Vela is not just a celebration; it's an unforgettable experience that combines cultural richness, friendly rivalry, and the divine aura of Nellikulangara Bhagavathy.