Thrissur Pooram will be celebrated in line with HC guidelines: Chandy

Thrissur: Thrissur Pooram will be celebrated in line with the guidelines issued by the High Court to ensure safety and security and without losing the essence of its tradition, beauty and culture, Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said on Friday.

"Safety and security is a very important matter," Chandy said a day after the Kerala High Court allowed low-decibel fireworks display in the night during the Pooram festival, exempting it from the ban imposed in the wake of April 10 Kollam Puttingal Devi temple tragedy, that claimed 108 lives.

Chandy held a review meeting with Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala, Thrissur district administration and office-bearers of Pooram organising committee Friday morning during which the preparations for the festival were analysed.

"Government will continue to extend its full support to the Pooram festival," Chandy said after the meeting.

Chennithala said the meeting decided to organise the Pooram as it was organised in previous years.

Fireworks display, procession of majestically caparisoned elephants and changing of sequined parasols are the major attractions of Pooram festival.

Chennithala appealed to the people to follow the guidelines issued by the High Court and the district administration for the smooth conduct of the festival.

"There will be strict restrictions in place for this year's Pooram festival," Chennithala said.

Thrissur is best known for its Pooram festival and is the most colourful and spectacular temple festivals of Kerala.

Devotees and spectators from all parts of the state and outside throng the venue of the Pooram.

Paramekkavu and Thiruvambadi Devaswoms conduct the festival on the grounds of the Vadakkunnathan Temple in the heart of Thrissur city.

Chennithala said the government is planning to suggest laser fireworks which add light, colour and texture to any event for Thrissur Pooram instead of noise making traditional fireworks.

"We have sought the cooperation of Devaswoms in this regard," he said.

On Thursday, the Kerala High Court had ordered that no unauthorised chemicals should be used in the fireworks and the sound level should not exceed 125 decibel for the Pooram fireworks.

The bench was hearing a plea by the private Paramekkavu and Thirvambadi Devaswoms, which fund the annual Pooram festival. The ongoing festival will come to an end on April 18.