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BACK TO FESTIVALS
GREAT ELEPHANT MARCH ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Caparisoned elephants swaying to the rythm of panchavadyam penta-orchestra-,snake boats racing to the clamour of the onlookers,scintillating dispaly of Kerala's folk and martial arts,breath taking firework display, and Kerala's own sumptuous food are the attractions of this annual fete. This unique programme, started in 1990, is aimed at introducing the rich cultural heritage of Kerala to foreigners.The four day package is jointly organised by the Union and state departements of tourism.It is held from 17 th to 20 th of January every year.
FIRST DAY ( JANUARY 17 ) AT THRISSUR 101 bejewelled tuskers, lined up majestically in a semi circle amidst Kerala's traditional orchestra-panchavadyam-, is one of the most spectacular sights in the world. Subsequenly, tourists can watch the elephants being fed. The "Great Elephant March" beings at the Muncipal Stadium of Thrissur.
SECOND DAY ( JANUARY 18 ) AT KOCHI This is considered a day for repose, one -day excursions to nearby places not with standing. There is plenty to see and do in Kochi-sight seeing,shopping and what not. A sunset cruise along the harbour gives a panorama of Chinese fishing nets.
THIRD DAY ( JANUARY 19 ) AT ALAPPUZHA The tourists can at first participate in a mock race in Lake Punnamada at first, and then have to watch from the banks as the oarsmen set the backwaters on fire as they compete for the Nehru Trophy.The thrill of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race is recreated for the tourists. This is arranged by the Alappuzha Tourism Development Co-operative Society (ATDC)
FOURTH DAY ( JANUARY 20 ) AT THIRUVANANTHAPURAM On the final day, 51 caparisoned elephants line up at Central Stadium here for a repeat performance, as the rising notes of panchavadyam fill the vesper air. The grant final will take place at Kovalam beach. Classical dance forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattom,ritual and folk art forms like Theyyam and Thira, and the martial art form Kalaripayattu will be staged there. Tug-of-war between an elephant and 100 men holds the audience in thrall. The entire show is carried to a befitting climax with a hair-rising but marvellous display of fireworks.
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