Tuesday, September 19, 2006
BEEMAPALLY (Chandanakkuda Mahotsavam):-
The holy shrine of Bema Beevi, more popularly known as Beemapally, which is held sacred by Muslims as well as others, is situated about five kilometers southwest of the Trivandrum Central Railway Station, on the beach road leading to Poonthura via Valiathura. Beemapally is a shrine dedicated to the hallowed memory of Bema Beevi, a pious and devoted Muslim lady gifted with divine powers. Of the festivals celebrated here, Chandanakkuda Mahotsavam is by far, the most important. The festival is in commemoration of the death anniversary of Bema Beevi. Celebrated with much pomp and gaiety it begins on the first of Jamadul Akhar (March-April) of Hijra year and lasts for ten days.
On the first of Jamadul Akhar, the traditional flag of the mosque is ceremoniously hoisted in the presence of elders and a big gathering. This marks the commencement of the festival and the celebrations in the subsequent days. Small earthen pots smeared with sandalwood paste and their openings covered with small white cloth, with small flower garlands tied around their neck and two or three incense sticks thrust into the top covering, known as Chandanakkudam containing coins are devoutly carried by the pilgrims on their heads of the shrine. These pots are then given as offerings at the tomb.
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