The Chandanakudam at Beemapally in Thiruvananthapuram is one of the most
colorful Muslim festivals in Kerala. The Chandanakkudam Mahotsavam as it is
called, is said to be the death anniversary of Beemabeevi, a devout pilgrim
lady who came to Kerala from Mecca and settled down at this place with her
son. Bema Bevy is believed to gifted with divine powers. The festival begins
on the 1st of Jamaduul Akhar of the Hijra era (October) and lasts for 10 days.
The largest influx of pilgrims can be seen on the last day, carrying earthen
pots smeared with sandal wood paste and the mouth of the pot tightly closed
with white cloth with a jasmine garland around it's edges. Thousands of
pilgrims, both Muslims and non-Muslims, go round the mosque and the hallowed
tomb of the devote lady in procession.
The earthen pot with money is placed at the tomb as an offering. Among
Christian festivals, the Malayattur perunnal is most important in Kerala. St
Thomas, one of the twelve Disciples of Christ; Came to Kerala (Kodungallur) in
52 A.D. He is believed to have offered penance at Malayattur, on the banks of
the Periyar. At this very site, stands a church, every year, on Sunday which
falls after Easter, thousands of pilgrims young and old, men and women, visit
the church which is situated well with in the jungles of the western Ghats.
The colorful procession taken out from this church on festival days are
mammoth ones and thousands of devotees participate in them. Almost all
varieties of percussion instruments are played during this procession.
Onam
