Pulikali spectacle delights thousands in Thrissur

Thrissur: The cultural capital of Kerala- Thrissur once again surrendered to the electrifying beats of Pulikali. Drums thundered, bellies shook, and painted tigers stormed Swaraj Round, stealing hearts in the true spirit of the Onam festival. Organised by the Thrissur Corporation, the age-old folk art brought together both town and countryside in one grand spectacle.

Nine Pulikali teams — Ayyanthole, Kuttankulangara, Seetharam Mill Lane, Chakkamukku, Naikkanal, Viyyur, Shankaramkulangara, Veliyannoor, and Patturaikkal — lined up in all their glory.

Revenue Minister K Rajan, Higher Education Minister Dr R Bindu, MLA P Balachandran, and District Collector Arjun Pandian flagged off the celebrations at Thekke Gopuranda, with Thrissur Mayor MK Varghese presiding over the event.

Adding an international flavour, a 12-member delegation of responsible tourism promoters from 10 countries arrived as part of the Tourism Department’s cultural exchange programme to witness the vibrant show.

To ensure safety for both performers and the public, the Corporation arranged insurance coverage worth ₹50 lakh. Each participating team also received ₹3.12 lakh in financial support. Medical aid, drinking water, and other essential facilities were made available for the smooth conduct of the festival.

Crowds from across Kerala thronged Swaraj Round as Thrissur’s streets throbbed with the energy of the tiger dance.

Prizes of ₹62,500, ₹50,000, and ₹43,750 will be awarded to the top three teams. Tableaux can fetch up to ₹50,000, while tiger carts and costumes carry smaller prizes. For the first time, awards will also be given for body painting and make-up display. In total, the Corporation has ensured ₹50 lakh in insurance coverage and ₹3.12 lakh in financial aid per team, with advance payments already released. After the event, 150 litres of kerosene will be distributed to help performers remove the paint.