Events

The cultural calendar of Thrissur is world-renowned, headlined by the **Thrissur Pooram**, held annually in April or May at Thekkinkadu Maidan. Known as the 'mother of all poorams', it is a spectacular display of caparisoned elephants, mesmerizing percussion ensembles (*Ilanjithara Melam*), and a massive fireworks display. Another globally recognized event is **Puli Kali** (Tiger Dance), where hundreds of men paint their bodies as tigers and dance through the streets during the harvest festival of Onam. The city also hosts the **Aanayoottu** (elephant feeding festival) and the **ViBGYOR Film Festival**, an annual international short and documentary film festival.