OACHIRAKKALI
Celebrated In:Kollam, Kerala
Centre of Activity: Oachira Temple
Held In: June
Main attractions: Oachirakkali, A Mock Battle Dance
Centre of Activity: Oachira Temple
Held In: June
Main attractions: Oachirakkali, A Mock Battle Dance
The
Oachira Temple is the
venue of the famous Oachirakkali (Oachira dance) held in June, a sort of
ancient choreographed mock battle. Unlike other temples, there is no
shrine or idol at the oachira temple, located nearly 32 kms from
Kollam.
The principal deity is a concept called Parabrahmam (Cosmic
Consciousness). Rows of men dressed up in ancient soldier's constumes wave
wooden swords and shields and advance and retreat to the rhythm of
traditional drums.
