Thrissur Pooram rises above grief, keeping its spirit alive

Scorching sun was harsher than ever, the humidity was unbearable, and there was a sense of gloom in the air. Yet, Thrissur Pooram unfolded in all its splendour on Sunday. The scaled-down format didn’t deter the Pooram lovers from thronging Thekkinkadu Maidan. They were determined to make the most of what remained and keep the spirit of the festival vibrant.

Following the fireworks tragedy at Mundathikode that claimed 15 lives, authorities decided to hold this year’s Thrissur Pooram without fireworks. While all major rituals were retained, the Kudamattam was curtailed to just 15 minutes, with just 10 sets of umbrellas to be displayed.