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Rituals

Paliya Ulsavam at Kumaly: Celebrating Palichiyamma

Paliya Ulsavam is the annual festival of the Paliyar community in Kerala, held every April. Rooted in forest traditions and ancestral worship, the festival today blends temple rituals with cultural expressions like Kummi-adi and Paliya Nritham. From the sacred pilgrimage to Kalluveriyar to votive offerings such as Mulapayaru, Maavilakku, and Theechatti, the celebration reflects the community’s deep faith, resilience, and collective identity.

Kerala History

Paliyar communitywomen performing Mavilakku during the event of Paliya Ulsavam at Chakkupallam

Chakkupallam’s Paliya Ulsavam: Tradition, Adaptation, and Collective Faith

At Chakkupallam in Idukki, the Paliyar community comes together each April to celebrate Paliya Ulsavam, their annual harvest-season festival at their newly built Sree Badrakaliyamman Temple.

Rituals