Kalpathi Ratholsavam
Kalpathi Ratholsavam, also known as the Kalpathi Chariot Festival, is a world-renowned annual event held at the Sree Visalakshi Sametha Sree Viswanatha Swamy Temple in Palakkad. Usually celebrated in November (the Malayalam month of Vrishchikam), this ten-day festival is one of the most significant cultural celebrations in Kerala, mirroring the traditions of the Kashi Vishwanath temple. The festival's highlight occurs during the final three days, when massive, intricately decorated temple chariots (Rathams) are pulled through the streets of the Tamil Brahmin settlements (Agraharams) by thousands of devotees. The air is filled with Vedic chants and traditional percussion, creating a powerful spiritual atmosphere. This centuries-old tradition attracts pilgrims and photographers from across the globe, showcasing a unique blend of Kerala and Tamil cultural heritage.
