Vaikathashtami festival at Vaikom Mahadeva Temple

Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is situated on the banks of Vembanad lake in Kerala State.

This festival is celebrated during the Malayalam month of Vrischikam(nov-dec).

It is celebrated for 12 days

The festival starts with a flag hoisting ceremony, Sreebali and Vilakku will be held in the following days.

On the fifth, sixth, and Seventh-day Poothalam Varavu is held.

One of the major highlights during the festival is the Ashtami Vilakku or lamps.

Another major ritual during the festival is the Udayanapurathappante Varavu (arrival of Lord Murga (Subrahmanya) from the nearby Udayanapuram Subrahamanya Temple) to pay respects to his father Lord Shiva at the Vaikom Temple.

Panchavadyam, Gajapooja, Aanayoottu etc will ba held as a part of the festival.

The most important day is Ashtami day which is the eighth day after the full moon. On the final day of the festival, there will be Koodipooja Vilakku, Thrikkarthika, and Athazhamoottu in addition to Arattu.

2022 Date: November 17.