Kumbha Bharani Thirunal Mahotsavam 2026 Kannamba Bhagavathi Temple Trivandrum

Kumbha Bharani Thirunal Mahotsavam 2026 at Kannamba Bhagavathi Temple

The spiritually vibrant Kumbha Bharani Thirunal Mahotsavam 2026 at Kannamba Bhagavathi Temple is set to take place from February 14 to February 23, 2026 (Malayalam Era 1201, Kumbham 02–11). This annual festival stands as a sacred offering of devotion, cultural heritage, and community participation, drawing devotees and art enthusiasts alike.

Renowned for its historic significance and deep-rooted traditions, the festival transforms the temple premises into a hub of divine energy and celebration. Devotees gather to seek the blessings of Goddess Bhagavathi, believing the rituals performed during Kumbha Bharani bring relief from hardships and usher in prosperity, protection, and spiritual fulfillment.

The Mahotsavam is marked by an elaborate sequence of tantric rituals, poojas, cultural performances, and traditional temple arts. The ceremonies begin in the early hours with Abhishekam, followed by the Ashtadravya Ganapathi Homam, invoking Lord Ganesha’s grace for the smooth conduct of the festival. Bhagavatha Parayanam enriches the spiritual ambiance, offering moments of introspection and devotion.

Evenings at Kannamba Bhagavathi Temple radiate with devotional intensity through Deepaaradhana, accompanied by Thottampattu. The mesmerizing Deepakkazcha  creates an awe-inspiring visual spectacle, symbolizing the triumph of divine light over darkness. The rhythmic harmony of traditional instruments and sacred chants deepens the mystical experience.

One of the highlights of the festival is the vibrant blend of classical, devotional, and folk performances. Esteemed artists and cultural groups present music concerts, dance recitals, Kaikottikali, Thiruvathirakali, and cinematic dance shows. These performances are not mere entertainment but offerings of devotion, preserving Kerala’s rich artistic legacy.

Community participation remains a cornerstone of the Mahotsavam. Ritual sponsorships (Nercha) by devotees and families reflect gratitude, remembrance, and faith. Contributions supporting Annadanam, Vilakku, and other ceremonies symbolize collective devotion and unity. The temple administration gratefully acknowledges the unwavering support of devotees, local organizations, clubs, and well-wishers.

Special events such as Samooha Pongala, educational award ceremonies, and grand folk mega shows add further vibrancy to the celebrations. The culmination rituals, including Gurusi and ceremonial Vilakku, signify spiritual completion and divine grace.

Beyond rituals and performances, the Kumbha Bharani festival represents a sacred convergence of faith, tradition, and cultural continuity. It is a time when the community reconnects with its spiritual roots, celebrates artistic heritage, and renews collective prayers at the feet of Goddess Bhagavathi.

As Kannamba Bhagavathi Temple prepares to welcome devotees for Mahotsavam 2026, the festival promises days and nights of devotion, divine blessings, and unforgettable cultural grandeur.

This historic and spiritually revered festival is a heartfelt offering from the local community, symbolizing collective faith, cultural continuity, and divine reverence toward Goddess Bhagavathi. Devotees believe that participation in the Kumbha Bharani rituals bestows blessings, removes obstacles, and grants prosperity and protection.

Grand Bharani Day – February 26, 2026 (ME 1201 Kumbham 11)
Arattu Ezhunnallippu – The Royal Procession
Cultural & Devotional Performances
Community Devotion & Offerings
Temple Announcements & Sacred Rituals
Upcoming Events

The climactic Kumbha Bharani day is observed on Monday, February 26, 2026, featuring a series of powerful temple rituals and vibrant processions.

The day begins at 4:00 AM with Palliyunarthal (awakening of the deity), followed by the Urul Mahotsavam at 4:30 AM. The ceremonial Urul procession, accompanied by traditional percussion ensembles, commences from Kannamba Navabhavana and proceeds toward the temple. Households along the route participate by lighting Nilavilakku (traditional lamps), welcoming the divine procession with reverence.

Morning rituals include:

• 5:00 AM – Abhishekam

• 5:15 AM – Ashtadravya Ganapathi Homam

• 5:30 AM – Ushapooja

• 7:00 AM – Bhagavatha Parayanam

The Urul procession by Balasamajam at 8:00 AM adds youthful energy to the celebrations, followed by Thulabharam at 8:30 AM, a ritual offering of gratitude. Bananas received through Thulabharam are auctioned at 9:00 AM.

At 10:30 AM, the Kalasham ritual is performed under the chief priest’s guidance, marking an important spiritual milestone of the day.

By 3:00 PM, the temple witnesses the majestic Arattu Ezhunnallippu (holy ceremonial procession). The procession is enriched with:

• Caparisoned elephants

• Nadaswaram

• Panchavadyam

• Chenda Melam

• Singari Melam

• Theyyam & Digital Theyyam

• Pookkavadi and folk art forms

The procession travels through Navabhavana, Paramukku, Chaluvila Junction, and Kannamba Junction before ceremonially returning to the temple. The rhythmic orchestration of temple instruments combined with visual splendor creates an unforgettable devotional spectacle.

Evening celebrations feature Kerala’s traditional performing arts:

• 4:00 PM – Ottanthullal

• 5:45 PM – Kettukazhcha (Eduppu Kuthira)

• 6:30 PM – Deeparadhana

By nightfall, the temple radiates festive brilliance through Kuthuvilakku, Chamayavilakku, Karakam, Pookkavadi, Nadaswaram, Chenda Melam, and Digital Theyyam processions.

A Live Music Concert and the enthralling Dance Drama “Palani Andavan” form the cultural highlights of the night.

The Mahotsavam thrives on Nercha (devotional sponsorships) made by devotees and families. Offerings supporting Nadaswaram, Panchavadyam, Singari Melam, Digital Theyyam, Annadanam, and Vilakku rituals embody gratitude, remembrance, and unwavering faith.

Special arrangements are available for:

• Para offerings

• Thulabharam

• Lamp offerings

Kannamba Bhagavathi Temple continues its monthly and special poojas, including:

• Ashtadravya Ganapathi Homam (1st day of every Malayalam month)

• Aishwarya Pooja (Full Moon day)

• Bhagavathi Seva (on Pournami & Veluthavavu)

Devotees are encouraged to maintain temple customs and participate respectfully.

The temple also announces:

• Prathishta Dinam & Pongala Mahotsavam – April 23, 2026 (ME 1201 Medam 10)

• Joint community meetings and annual gatherings

• Facilities for weddings and religious functions