In Pictures: Attukal Pongala celebrations in Kerala

One of the largest gatherings of women in the world, Attukal Pongala is a spectacular annual festival held in Kerala. Devotees assemble in lakhs to prepare a sacred offering for the goddess, transforming the city into a sea of clay pots, firewood, and devotion. (Source: Photo by IE Malayalam )

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple: The festival is centred around the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram. Dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy (a form of Kannaki/Parvati), the temple is often called the “Sabarimala of Women.” (Source: Photo by IE Malayalam )

What Is Pongala? “Pongala” means “to boil over.” Women cook a sweet dish made of rice, jaggery, coconut, and ghee in earthen pots as an offering to the goddess. The act of cooking becomes a sacred ritual symbolising gratitude and devotion. (Source: Photo by IE Malayalam )

A Guinness World Record Gathering: Attukal Pongala has been recognised by the Guinness World Records for being one of the largest assemblies of women for a religious activity, with millions participating in a single day. (Source: Photo by IE Malayalam )

The City Turns Into a Sacred Kitchen: On the festival day, streets across Thiruvananthapuram are lined with temporary brick stoves. From temple grounds to residential lanes, the entire city becomes an open air kitchen as women cook in unison. (Source: Photo by IE Malayalam )

Ritual and Blessing: At an auspicious time, the temple priests light the main hearth inside the temple, and the flame is passed from one devotee to another. Once the pongala boils over, it signifies that the offering has been accepted. (Source: Photo by IE Malayalam )

A Celebration of Sisterhood: More than a religious event, Attukal Pongala is a powerful symbol of women’s unity and faith. It brings together women from different communities, backgrounds, and even countries, reinforcing Kerala’s rich cultural fabric. (Source: Photo by IE Malayalam )