Beginning of elephant feasting at Vadakkumnathan temple

Aanayoottu is an interesting ritualistic ceremony held annually at the Vadakkumnatha Temple in Thrissur district of Kerala, India. Aaanayoottu literally means feasting the elephants with specially prepared food.

Specially prepared food
The food comprises of rice mixed with molasses, ghee and turmeric powder. Coconut, sugarcane, cucumber, pineapple, and bananas are some other delicacies. At the end of the meal, the pachyderms are given Ashtachoorna, an Ayurvedic digestive powder.

Peerless event
The event is held on the first day of the month of Karkidakam (July-August), according to the Malayalam calendar. The month of Karkidakam that falls during monsoon season is considered ideal for all kinds of rejuvenation therapies in Ayurveda, the Indian system of medicine. Aanayoottu is believed to be the largest of its kind in the world. Thousands throng the ancient Vadakkumnathan Temple to witness this singular event.