Karikkakam Arappuravilakom Sree Bhagavathi Temple – Rohini Festival 2026
The sacred precincts of Karikkakam Arappuravilakom Sree Bhagavathi Temple Trust in Karikkakam, Thiruvananthapuram, will come alive with devotion, rhythm, and celebration during the Rohini Mahotsavam scheduled from March 20 to March 24, 2026 (Malayalam Era 1201, Meenam 06 to 10). Registered under number 149/2002, the temple stands as a revered spiritual center where tradition, community, and faith converge in a vibrant annual observance.
This five-day festival is dedicated to the presiding deity, Bhagavathi, whose divine presence is worshipped with rituals, offerings, and a series of cultural programs. Devotees, families, and art enthusiasts gather to witness an immersive blend of sacred ceremonies and Kerala’s classical performing arts. A notable highlight of the festival is the Annadanam, offered throughout the celebration as an expression of gratitude and service. The act of sharing food symbolizes compassion, equality, and divine blessing.
Festival Commencement – March 20, 2026
The festivities begin on March 20 with a graceful Nritha Sandhya (Dance Evening) at 7:30 PM, presented by Bharathakshethram. This opening performance sets a devotional tone, invoking blessings through classical dance expressions rooted in Bharatanatyam and traditional Kerala aesthetics. The inaugural evening emphasizes spiritual awakening through art, reminding attendees of the deep connection between movement and worship.
Cultural Harmony – March 21, 2026
On the second day, March 21, the stage lights up at 7:00 PM with Thiruvathira and Nritha Sandhya, performed by Abhinaya Dance Academy. Thiruvathira, a classical group dance of Kerala, embodies feminine grace, unity, and devotion. The evening continues with an enchanting Gaanamela (Musical Concert) at 8:15 PM by Sarangi Orchestra, Karikkakam. The musical ensemble promises a melodious journey of devotional and light classical compositions, enhancing the celebratory spirit.
Devotional Resonance – March 22, 2026
March 22 begins with a spiritually uplifting Namajapa Lahari at 5:30 PM, presented by Ulayakudaperumal and team. This session of rhythmic chanting and devotional recitation deepens the collective sense of reverence. At 7:30 PM, another Nritha Sandhya follows, staged by Thraya Dance Group, Arappuravilakom Karikkakam. Through expressive choreography and traditional themes, the performers pay homage to Bhagavathi’s divine energy.
Grand Procession – March 23, 2026
One of the most anticipated events unfolds on March 23 at 4:00 PM: the majestic Arappuravilakathamma’s Elephant Procession (Aanappurath Ezhunnallathu). The ceremonial procession, featuring the deity’s idol mounted on a caparisoned elephant, radiates grandeur and sanctity. Traditional percussion, temple lamps, and chants accompany the spectacle, creating an atmosphere of divine magnificence. Later at 7:30 PM, devotees can witness another captivating Nritha Sandhya by Thrambaka Nritha Vidyalaya, Chavadinada, Peringammala.
Sacred Finale – March 24, 2026
The concluding day, March 24, begins with the revered Pongala Samarpanam at 9:00 AM. Thousands of women devotees prepare offerings in earthen pots, symbolizing surrender and gratitude to the Goddess. The ritual transforms the temple surroundings into a sea of devotion, unity, and spiritual fervor. The festival culminates with a Gaanamela at 8:15 PM, presented by Thiruvananthapuram Sagara, closing the celebrations with music and collective joy.
A Celebration of Faith and Tradition
The Rohini Festival at Karikkakam Arappuravilakom Sree Bhagavathi Temple is more than a series of events it is a sacred convergence of ritual, art, and communal harmony. Each performance, chant, and offering reflects Kerala’s rich spiritual heritage and the enduring devotion of its people.
Devotees and visitors are warmly welcomed to participate in this divine celebration, seek blessings, and experience the timeless cultural traditions that define Kerala’s temple festivals.