Kadammanitta Padayani: Bhadrakali’s Vibrant Ritual Spectacle
Kadammanitta Padayani unfolds at the Kadammanitta Devi Temple in Pathanamthitta as a 10-day homage to Goddess Bhadrakali, from Medam 1st to 10th (April-May), showcasing colossal kolams—ritual masks—of mythic figures like Ganapathi, Yakshi, and Bhairavi crafted from palm leaves and areca spathes. Torchlit processions (Eduthu Varavu) parade these glowing effigies amid thappu drums and padayani songs, building to the Valiya Padayani climax on day seven with giant Bhairavi kolams dancing in hypnotic fervor.
Ritual Progression
Festivities ignite with Chottu Vappu fire-lighting, invoking the goddess through folk chants, followed by nightly kolam unveilings: Paradeshi comedy, Koottakkolam ensembles, and Vallappattu boat songs seeking blessings. Day eight’s Pakal Padayani shifts to daylight rhythms, ending with Kalamezhuthu—intricate floor drawings—and evocative pattu recitals, purifying the sacred ground.