Oachira
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Oachira or Ochira is a small town in Kollam district of Kerala, India. It is one of the famous sacred places of Kerala.[1]
Oachira is on the border of Kollam and Allappuzha districts, next to the National Highway 47.[2] It is a pilgrimage center that is centered on Parabrahma temple, which covers thirty-six acres of land. The Temple is dedicated to Omkaram or the Universal Consciousness.
The major annual festivals are Oachira Kali or Oachirakali (held on the first and second of Midhunam, i.e., June-July) and the twelve-day Panthrandu Vilakku (twelve lamp festival), which is held in November/December. Oachira Kali is celebrated in commemoration of the battle of Kayamkulam, fought between Marthanda Varma, the Maharaja of Travancore and the Raja of Kayamkulam, on the plains of Oachira.[3]. It is a mock fight enacted between groups of men dressed as warriors on the padanilam (battle field). They perform a martial dance standing in knee-deep water, brandishing swords and shields, and splashing water in every direction. A big cattle fair is also held as part of the festival.
