Arattupuzha Sree Sastha Temple

"My Mother's Native Place and I make it a point to go there every year for the annual Pooram festival around March-April which is considered the Mother of all Pooram festivals in Kerala as it has been going on for over a 1000 years. Legend has it that three elephants who arrived late for the pooram were turned away and the upset parties approached the then King Sakthan Thampuran who promised them they he would create a Pooram festival bigger than the Arattupuzha temple and hence the Thrissur Pooram came into being. Also there is another misconception that the presiding deity is Lord Ayyappan which is incorrect. Since the temple is called Sastha Temple it is mistaken for Lord Ayyappan as He is addressed as Dharmashastha too. The presiding deity is actually Sage Vasishta and in an unusual fashion the deity faces west when normally most temples have their deities facing east. I believe this is to indicate how all the Gods and Goddesses pay their tribute by turing eatward to face the westard facing Sashthavu of Arattupuzha. Even during the Pooram several Gods and Goddesses from the temples all around Arattupuzha make their way to the temple during the annual pooram that lasts almost 2 days lead by Sage Vasishta's most beloved disciple, Lord Rama from Thriprayar. One of the most delightful drumming events, the Chenda Melam happens here on two nights and on the early morning of the final day which cannot be missed. The non-stop drumming goes on for 2.5 to 3 hours. On the first day "Tharkayil Pooram" there could be around 150 performers and on the second day "Valiya Pooram" upto 200 or more of them. The performance in the presence of the caprisoned elephansts is a feast for the eyes and the ears. Amma in those days has counted 150 elephants for the final day event that takes place in the early hours of the day. I have counted 63 elephants in the poorams of the 2010's but these days the number has dwindled to 35, yet it is a grand sight. The fireworks on night of the "Tharkayil Pooram" is also a sight to watch. lf you don't have relatives in Arattupuzha the Nilambari resort and Hotel Savera Park are your best places for accommodation and food. By the way there is another Aratupuzha (note spelling change) near Kayamkulam in the district of Alappuzha which is sometimes confused with Arattupuzha of the Thrissur district."

Subash S L

"Must visit temple in Thrissur during festival days. Arattupuzha hosts one of the oldest poorams in Kerala. Pandi melam led by legendary Peruvanam was indeed an awesome experience! Pooram is really multifaceted. It might be people/rush for someone or elephants or melam.
Gents need to be bare chested to enter. Pants can be worn. Shorts and lungi not allowed. Ladies can wear saree or churidar."

Anu Pulikkal Rajan

"A visit to the ancient Arattupuzha Sree Sastha Temple is a deeply spiritual and culturally rich experience. While the temple is serene on a regular day, with peaceful surroundings by the Karuvannur river, it transforms completely during its renowned annual Pooram festival. Visitors consistently praise the vibrant energy during the festival, often called the "Mother of all Poorams".
Reviews highlight the spectacular procession featuring dozens of caparisoned elephants, representing deities from neighboring temples who gather for the "Devamela," or conclave of gods. The air is filled with the majestic rhythms of the Pandi Melam percussion ensembles, performed by hundreds of artists, creating an electrifying atmosphere. Many describe the sight of the elaborately decorated elephants and the rhythmic music as truly mesmerizing and magical.
The temple's historic significance, dating back over 3,000 years, is often noted. Its riverside setting, bordered by vast paddy fields where the main festival events take place, provides a stunning backdrop. The temple is well-maintained and visitors appreciate the excellent location and available parking. For those seeking an unforgettable glimpse into Kerala's rich traditions, a visit during the Pooram is a must."

Nikhil