GURUVAYUR: The world-famous Sree Krishna Temple in Guruvayur witnessed a massive rush of devotees as the auspicious Illam Nira ritual 2026 —celebrating agricultural prosperity and abundant harvests—was solemnized in divine fervor. Pilgrims turned out in large numbers to witness the sacred Balika Kathir Pooja and seek the blessings of Lord Guruvayurappan.
The rituals commenced during the auspicious muhurtham between 8:30 AM and 9:30 AM. Freshly harvested paddy sheaves, brought to the eastern outer courtyard (Kizhakke Nada) by hereditary rights holders from the Azheekkal and Manayam families alongside devotees, were placed on plantain leaves at the eastern gopuram.
The Keezhshanthis (assistant priests) carried the paddy sheaves on their heads in a ceremonial procession to the temple’s flagstaff (Kodimaram). Under the guidance of Temple Tantri Brahmasree P.C. Dineshan Namboodiripad, Melshanthi Brahmasree T.M. Narayanan Namboodiri performed the sacred Kathir Pooja. The consecrated paddy sheaves were offered to Lord Guruvayurappan and subsequently distributed to devotees as divine prasadam.
Guruvayur Devaswom Chairman A.V. Gopinath, Managing Committee members C. Manoj, Manoj B. Nair, and M.U. Shinija, along with Assistant Managers A.V. Prashanth and M. Haridas, were present during the occasion.
Thriputhari Celebration on August 30
The continuation of Illam Nira, known as the Thriputhari festival, will take place on Sunday, August 30, between 8:30 AM and 9:30 AM. Special offerings made from the newly harvested rice—including Puthati Payasam and Appam—will be offered to Lord Guruvayurappan.
