Thrissur, May 6 -- The acclaimed 36-hour long annual Thrissur Pooram festival that began at the Sree Vadakkumnathan Temple here kicked off a day ago with fast beats of percussion instruments, conches blowing, and devotees thronging the Thekkinkadu Maidan of the temple.

The Pooram, known as the mother of all 'Poorams', officially kicked off on the night of May 5 as Neythalakavilamma made her majestic entry, escorted with devotion and ceremony, opening the Thekke Gopura Nada of the Sree Vadakkumnathan Temple.

Each deity participating in Thrissur Pooram has a distinct role and responsibility. Neythalakavilamma's duty is to prepare the way for Kanimangalam Shasta's early morning arrival on Pooram day, symbolically opening the South Gopuram ...