Thrissur

Thrissur (Malayalam: ?????) is a city situated in the central part of Kerala state, India. It is an important cultural centre, and is known as the "cultural capital" of Kerala. It is famous for the Thrissur Pooram festival, the most colourful and spectacular temple festival of Kerala. The festival is held near the Vadakkumnathan temple, in April or May. It has a large number of well known temples around, including the temple town of Guruvayoor.

Culture

Thrissur is built around a hillock, crowned by the famous Vadakkunathan (Siva) Temple, believed to have been founded by legendary Parasurama. The temple is a classical example of Kerala style of architecture and houses several sacted shrines. It is believed that Adi Shankaracharya spent his last days here.

Related Topics:
Parasurama - Adi Shankaracharya

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Thrissur also has added to its name The Church of Our Lady of Dolors, popularly known as the New Church. It is one on the biggest Catholic churches in south Asia. The first church of India is also situated in Thrissur, the St. Thomas church at Palayoor. The Metropolitan of the Chaldean Syrian Church (the name used for the Church of the East in India) is also headquartered in Thrissur, and many religious publications are printed by Mar Narsai Press.

Related Topics:
South Asia - Chaldean Syrian Church - Church of the East - India

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Saint Thomas (Apostle) is believed to have landed in Kodungalloor (Formerly called Muziris) in 52 AD. The Saint Thomas Church established by him houses ancient relics.

Related Topics:
Saint - Thomas (Apostle)

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Guruvayooris situated 25 Km north-west of the city, here the famous Sree Krishna temple is situated, is one of the most sacred and important pilgrim centres of India. The historic temple is shrouded in mystery. According to belief, the temple was created by Guru - the preceptor of the Gods and Vayu - the God of winds.

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The major cultural attraction is the Thrissur Pooram festival, celebrated during April - May, the Elephant Umbrella competition is spectacular, as richly caparisoned elephants carrying ceremonial umbrellas take the deity around the main temple. The passionate drum concerts and the spectacular firework displays are all part of the Pooram celebration

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Kerala Sahithya Akademy, Sangeetha Nataka Akademy and Kerala Lalithakala Academy are head quartered at Thrissur making the epithet 'cultural capital of Kerala' more meaningful

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Here are list of some of the temples around Thrissur,

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• The Kodungallur Bhagavati Temple
• Vadakkumnathan Temple
• Paramekkavu Bhagawathy Temple
• Thiruvambady Temple
• Poonkunnam Temple
• Mulangunnathukavu
• Thiruvilwamala Sree Rama Temple
• Guruvayoor Temple