Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Art & Culture
Why in News?
Recently, the Union Home Minister extended greetings on the occasion of Attukal Pongala.
Deity – Dedicated to Attukal Amma, an incarnation of Goddess Bhadrakali.
Held in – It is an annual Hindu festival held at the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, in Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum).
Considered the world’s largest congregation of women for a religious festival (over 3 million participants).
Ritual Duration – A 10-day festival commencing on the Karthigai star in the Malayalam month of Makaram or Kumbham.
The main ritual, Attukal Pongala Mahotsavam, is held on the 9th day.
The festival concludes with the ritual sacrifice known as Kuruthitharpanam at night.
Belief – The presiding deity, Attukal Bhagavathy, is believed to be an incarnation of Kannaki, the central character of the Tamil epic Silappathikaaram.
It is believed that after burning Madurai, Kannaki (Kannagi) travelled to Kerala and passed through the Attukal area on her way to Kodungallur.
Significance – Recognised globally for its massive women's participation.
