Will Kerala’s Thrissur Pooram be called off? Fireworks tragedy cast a pall of gloom over celebrations

In the wake of the fireworks tragedy that caused the death of 13 people in Kerala’s  Thrissur ahead of the famous pooram, speculations are rife that the government could  reconsider the conduct of the mega festival. The tragedy, which occurred at a fireworks manufacturing unit in Mundathikode near Thrissur on Tuesday, also critically injured over 40 people.

The festival is jointly conducted by two temple administrations - the Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple and Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple - and is held in the premises of the Vadakkunnathan Temple. The blast occurred at the fireworks manufacturing unit of the Thiruvambady faction at Mundathikode, about 16 km from the city. The grand fireworks are one of the most eventful celebrations. 

The Thiruvambadi administration has said that there will be no fireworks for  Thrissur Pooram this time in the backdrop of the tragedy, but it is ready to follow the government's directions on how to proceed with the ceremonies this year. As for the Paramekkavu administration, the official decision on the same will happen only after discussions with the government.

It is not possible to decide alone whether the Pooram should be held in the old way. The final decision will depend on public sentiment, government directives, and the preservation of traditions. Authorities have also confirmed that there are no legal issues in shifting fireworks materials to Thekkinkadu Maidan. Further actions will depend on interventions from the government and the High Court,” he told reporters.

The government is planning to hold a meeting, and Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan said that the High Court has granted permission to convene the meeting. It will be in the meeting that the next step in the conduct of the festival will be taken.

Rumours are that though the pooram ceremonies might take place this year, it is likely be without the festivities.