Context:
Anayoottu, an annual ritual at the Sree Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur was recently held.
Relevance:
GS I- History
Dimensions of the Article:
- About Anayoottu
- Reason for the Anayootu
About Anayoottu
- The Aanayoottu (gaja pooja/ feeding of elephants) is a festival held in the precincts of the Vadakkunnathan temple in City of Thrissur, in Kerala.
- The festival falls on the first day of the month of Karkkidakam (timed against the Malayalam calendar), which coincides with the month of July.
- It entails placing several plain elephants in the middle of a throng of people so they can be adored and fed.
- People swarm the temple in order to feed the elephants.
Reason for the Anayoottu
- The god of riches and desire fulfilment, Lord Ganesha, is said to be appeased by presenting poojas and delectable food to the elephants.
- The Aanayottoo ceremony has been held annually at the Vadakkunnathan temple, which is one of the oldest Shiva temples in southern India.
-Source: The Hindu
