This is one of the most important festivals in central Kerala. Colourful elephant processions accompanied by panchavadyam and pandimelam , during the day and at night, mark the eight day long celebrations.
Evenings are eventful with ritual and folk art performances that go on until dawn.
The highlight of the festival is the all night pooram pageant on the concluding day. The rituals are conducted in the glow of the traditional temple torches.