Devotees of Attukal Amma in the UK will gather at the London Mahalakshmi Temple in East Ham this Thursday, March 13th, 2025, for a special celebration of Attukal Pongala. The event will begin at 8:30 am.
Attukal Pongala Mahotsavam, a renowned women’s festival originating in Kerala, India, is recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest religious gathering of women.
The Pongala ceremony involves preparing a special dish of rice, jaggery, coconut, and other ingredients as an offering to the goddess. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to witness the start of the ceremony.
Archana tickets, costing £10 and including fruit, coconut, and a deepam (ceremonial lamp), will be available for purchase at the temple. Attendees are also welcome to bring flowers and fruits as additional offerings.
The festivities at the Mahalakshmi Temple will feature the rhythmic beats of Chenda Melam and Panchari Melam, performed by Vinod of Navadhara School of Music, adding to the spiritual atmosphere.
Pongala, the sweet pudding offered to the goddess, is traditionally prepared in new earthen pots, symbolizing life and the five elements of nature. In Kerala, the festival transforms the area around the Attukal Devi Temple into a vast celebration ground, drawing people from all walks of life. The London event aims to bring a similar sense of community and devotion to UK devotees.
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