Celebrated In : Palakkad, Kerala
Centre of Activity : Kalpathy Temple
Duration : A Week
Main Attraction : Three Magnificent Chariots
Bedecked with Flowers and Flags
Kalpathy and its 18 Agraharams near Palakkad is an early Tamil Brahmin settlement and is known as the ‘Varanasi of the South.’ Kalpathy Ratholsavam is a 10-day festival and begins with the Dwajarohanam (flag hoisting) and ends with Rathasangamom. The festival is observed during the last week of Aippasi Month.
The most important days during the 10-day festival are the last three days. When chariots from different temples are pulled around.
The festival is also noted for classical music concerts and other traditional cultural programs.