The celebrations will commence on Thursday, January 15, 2026, with the ceremonial hoisting of the temple Thrikodiyettu and conclude on Saturday, January 24, 2026, with the sacred Thiruvaarattu.
Mahotsavam and Thiruvaarattu – 2026 | Aazhimala Shiva Temple Thiruvananthapuram
During these ten auspicious days, the temple will host a series of traditional rituals and poojas, cultural and devotional art programmes, Annadanam, and the colourful Parayezzhunellippu procession, reflecting the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of Kerala temples.
The Trust humbly informs devotees and the public that the festival has been planned with the intention of invoking divine blessings for the welfare of all. The presence, prayers, and wholehearted support of devotees, well-wishers, and local residents are earnestly sought to ensure the successful conduct of the Mahotsavam. The temple administration is led by the Trust Managing Committee, with office bearers including the President, Vice President, General Secretary, Secretary, and Treasurer, supported by dedicated committee members. The spiritual observances are guided by the temple Thantri Sri Sanal, Melshanthi Sri Jyothish, Keezhshanthi Sri Aneesh, and temple astrologer Sri Ajith Arjunan Ashan. All devotees are cordially invited to participate in the Azhimala Siva Temple Mahotsavam and Thiruvaarattu 2026 and receive the boundless blessings of Lord Mahadeva, the compassionate deity who dwells by the eternal ocean.
ആഴിമല ശിവ ക്ഷേത്രം
Azhimala Siva Temple
80th Annual Mahotsavam & Thiruvaarattu
Date: January 15 to January 24, 2026
Malayalam Era: Makaram 1 to Makaram 10, 1201
Place: Pulinkudi, Mullur P.O., Thiruvananthapuram District
January 15, 2026 (Thursday) – Makaram 1
Flag Hoisting Day (Kodiyettam)
The Mahotsavam begins with the ceremonial Kodiyettam (flag hoisting), marking the official commencement of the ten-day annual festival. Special poojas and rituals are performed, invoking divine blessings for the smooth conduct of the festival.
January 16, 2026 (Friday) – Makaram 2
Daily temple rituals including Abhishekam, Kalasha Pooja, Deeparadhana, and Ucha Pooja are conducted. Cultural and devotional programmes begin in the evening.
January 17, 2026 (Saturday) – Makaram 3
Regular poojas continue along with Annadanam for devotees. Evening cultural events such as bhajans, classical music, and traditional art forms are held.
January 18, 2026 (Sunday) – Makaram 4
Special poojas and offerings are performed. Community-focused programmes and cultural performances take place, attracting large numbers of devotees and visitors.
January 19, 2026 (Monday) – Makaram 5
Temple rituals proceed as per tradition. Evening programmes include folk arts, dance performances, and devotional music sessions.
January 20, 2026 (Tuesday) – Makaram 6
Special ceremonies, social welfare activities, and cultural events are organised. Annadanam and prasada distribution continue throughout the day.
January 21, 2026 (Wednesday) – Makaram 7
Devotional rituals, Bhoothabali, and evening cultural programmes are conducted with traditional accompaniments.
January 22, 2026 (Thursday) – Makaram 8
Special poojas and spiritual discourses are held. Cultural programmes featuring renowned artists take place in the evening.
January 23, 2026 (Friday) – Makaram 9
Grand Parayezzhunellippu (ceremonial procession) with traditional percussion, decorated umbrellas, folk arts, and active community participation is conducted as a major highlight of the festival.
January 24, 2026 (Saturday) – Makaram 10
Thiruvaarattu (Sacred Arattu Ceremony)
The festival concludes with the auspicious Thiruvaarattu. After special poojas, the deity is taken in a grand procession to the Arattu location. The day ends with Arattu Kalasam, Deeparadhana, Athazha Pooja, and the ceremonial closing of the temple doors, marking the successful completion of the Mahotsavam.
