Painkuni Festival

The historical significance of the Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple in the former princely state of Travancore in south Kerala is deeply intertwined with the region's rich past. Serving as a sacred symbol closely associated with the Royal Family of Travancore, the temple boasts a history that spans centuries.

Among the key annual celebrations at the Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple is the renowned Painkuni Festival. Commencing with the kodiyettu, the ceremonial flag hoisting, this festival takes place in the months of March/April. A distinctive feature of the Painkuni Festival involves the placement of large fiberglass figures representing the Pandavas, the five sons of Pandu from the Indian epic Mahabharata, at the eastern entrance of the temple. This symbolic gesture is believed to appease Indra, the Rain God.

The Painkuni Festival unfolds over ten days, with each day featuring special rituals. On the ninth day, a significant event known as palli vetta, or the royal hunt, is performed by the head of the Travancore Royal Family near the Vettakorumakan Temple in the Fort area. The culmination of the festival occurs with the aarattu procession leading to the Shanghumugham Beach. Here, the idols are ritually immersed in the sea. Notably, the male members of the Royal Family of Travancore, including the king, participate in escorting the deities during this procession.

The Painkuni Festival at the Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple is not only a religious observance but also a cultural and historical spectacle that pays homage to traditions and rituals dating back through the annals of time.