Pulikali: Tiger beats to rock Thrissur on Monday

Thrissur: Kerala’s cultural capital town is gearing up for the most colourful finale of its Onam festivities—the Pulikali (tiger dance)—set to roar through Swaraj Round on Monday evening. At 4 pm, when the tigers descend on Swaraj Round, it will be more than just a performance—it will be a living tradition, the cultural heartbeat of Thrissur, and a reminder that Onam does not end quietly, but with a roar.

Preparations are in full swing across the city as bodies painted in vivid tiger stripes, masks and ornaments polished to perfection, and giant tableaux readied for the streets. In every pulimada (tiger troupe), the air is thick with the smell of paint, the beat of drums, and the thrill of anticipation.

“From the playful beat of the drum to the resounding call of the aarappo, Pulikali is in our blood. We are born into it, we grow up with this rhythm, and we live with it,” says a local Pulikali enthusiast as he prepares for the Pulikali Mahotsavam.

With bells tied around their waists and painted bellies shaking in rhythm, the tiger dancers are ready to transform Swaraj Round into a jungle of music, colour, and controlled chaos.

This year, nine teams—including Ayyanthole, Kuttankulangara, Seetharam Mill, Chakkamukku, Naikkanal, Yuvajana Sangham, Shankaran Kulangara, Veliyannoor, and Patturakkal—will compete, each bringing its own unique flair. Known for springing surprises with fresh themes and innovative performances, the groups promise that financial constraints will not dampen their creativity, even if government support has been limited.

Prize
The first prize-winning team will get a cash award of ₹62,500. Second and third prizes are ₹50,000 and ₹43,750. Prizes for best tableaux are: ₹50,000, ₹43,750 and ₹37,500. Best Pulikottu (percussion), Pulivesham (costume) and Pulivandi (tiger cart) will get ₹ 12,500, ₹ 9375 and ₹6250, respectively. An additional prize of ₹18,750 will be given to the well-disciplined team. 

Regional holiday declared
The district authority has declared a public holiday for government offices and educational institutions that come under Thrissur taluk on Monday from noon. District collector Arjun Pandyan announced the holiday under the Negotiable Instruments Act.