Thrissur Pooram Festival Returns to Dubai’s Zabeel Park
Next weekend, Dubai will come alive with the vibrant colors and sounds of Kerala’s most celebrated cultural festival. The event, taking place at Zabeel Park, will feature a dazzling fireworks display from the iconic Dubai Frame, promising an unforgettable experience for attendees.
Thrissur Pooram Comes to Dubai
The festival, titled “Mmde (Our) Thrissur Pooram,” is a live representation of the UNESCO-recognized Thrissur Pooram, one of Asia’s largest and most vibrant festivals. This year’s edition marks the sixth season of the event in Dubai and is scheduled for November 15 and 16, 2025. Dinesh Babu, president of Mmde Thrissur Koottayma, a community group of Indian expatriates from Thrissur, expressed excitement about the upcoming celebration, highlighting its commitment to preserving cultural heritage.
A Grand Celebration
The two-day festival will kick off with a fireworks trial on the evening of November 15, followed by a full-scale pyrotechnic display on November 16. The event is expected to attract around 20,000 visitors, running from 4 PM to 11 PM on Saturday and from 9 AM to 11 PM on Sunday. Balu Tharayil, the general convener for the festival, emphasized the gathering of top talent from Kerala, including renowned percussion artists who will perform traditional music.
Featured Performers
The festival will showcase a variety of performances, including appearances by Padma Shri awardee Peruvanam Kuttan Marar and Therozhi Ramakurup, who will be performing outside India for the first time. Other notable musicians include Kunisseri Aniyan Marar, Panjal Velukutty, Kallur Santhosh, and the Chelakkara Brothers. Additionally, art and craft master Prasad will contribute his expertise, enhancing the festival’s visual appeal.
Authentic Cultural Experience
Organized by Synerggy Events, the festival aims to recreate the authentic Thrissur Pooram experience in Dubai. Attendees can expect to see six life-sized robotic elephants and massive cutouts that will serve as a backdrop for traditional performances. The Kudamattam ceremony, a highlight of Thrissur Pooram where colorful parasols are exchanged atop elephants, will be replicated at the Zabeel Amphitheatre.
Culinary Delights and Entertainment
In addition to cultural displays, the festival will feature a Kerala food festival and a Pooram decorations exhibition, allowing attendees to indulge in the flavors and sights of their homeland. Live musical performances will be a significant part of the event, with playback singer and composer Gowri Lekshmi leading a band on November 15. The following day will feature a fusion performance by Aattam Band and Thekkinkadu Band, along with high-energy acts from rising star Yogi Sekar and DJ Savio.
Comedic entertainment will also be part of the lineup, with performances by comedian Ramesh Pisharody and television hosts Kallu and Mathukkutty. Theatre veteran Jayaraj Warrier will provide commentary for the Kudamattam ceremony alongside Dubai-based radio and TV host Machingal Radhakrishnan.
A Growing Tradition
Founded in 2018 by a dedicated group of individuals, including Ajith Thoppil, Rajesh Menon, and Saseendran Menon, Mmde Thrissur Koottayma made history in 2019 by hosting the first Thrissur Pooram outside India at Bollywood Parks, Dubai. Following successful editions at Etisalat Academy after the Covid-19 pandemic, the festival has moved to the larger Zabeel Park venue to accommodate increasing demand.
The event’s significance was underscored by the auspicious Poora Vilambaram, a ceremonial announcement made by Indian minister and Malayalam actor Suresh Gopi. To promote inclusivity, women attendees will receive a 50% discount on ticket prices available through various online platforms.
FAQs
What is the Thrissur Pooram festival?
Thrissur Pooram is a UNESCO-recognized cultural festival celebrated in Kerala, known for its vibrant processions, traditional music, and elaborate rituals.
When and where will the Dubai festival take place?
The festival will be held on November 15 and 16, 2025, at Zabeel Park in Dubai, featuring fireworks, cultural performances, and food stalls.
How can attendees participate in the festival?
Tickets can be purchased online, with special discounts available for women. The festival will offer a range of activities, including live music, traditional performances, and food experiences.
Conclusion
The upcoming Thrissur Pooram replica festival in Dubai promises to be a grand celebration of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. With a lineup of talented performers and engaging activities, attendees can look forward to an immersive experience that honors tradition while fostering community spirit. As the event approaches, excitement builds for what is sure to be a memorable occasion.
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