The traditional trade fair ‘Pulavanibham’ at the Azhakiyakavu Temple in Palluruthy, which began three days ago is attracting crowds.
The fair has its origins in the act of an erstwhile king of Cochin who granted permission for the lower castes, including the ‘pulayas’, to sell their wares at the northern side of the temple during festival days. Now, this tradition is being followed by the people and temple authorities. The one-month mela usually commences from the last Thursday of the Malayalam month of ‘Dhanu’. This year, hundreds of stalls had been put up by the vendors, with traditional home appliances, handicrafts, decoration materials, ornaments and food items. “People from other parts of the city visit the fair during the day. A heavy rush is typically witnessed at night,” says Vinod, a vendor. According to him a lot of people are attracted to the mela because it offers them almost all things they need.
“We have been a part of the mela for the last ten years and we have witnessed the same kind of rush,” said Annamma, a local resident. According to her there will be something new in the mela, every year. “This year, we purchased a typical handicraft item made of bamboo,” she said.
Thangama, a stall-owner and a resident of Aluva, who has a stall offering earthen pots, says that she has been attending the fair as a trader for the last 35 years.
“We prepare two months ahead before the mela. We are also able to generate a large profit from the event,” she said.