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The society and culture of Kottayam district gives a highlighted overview of the festivals, music, dances, restaurants, shopping and nightlife. The publishing houses also have made significant contributions towards the development of Kottayam culture and society. Kottayam is one of the most frequented destinations of Kerala. Millions of devotees from all over the state and outside come to participate in the Kottayam religious and other festivals and cultural performances. Some of the eminent festivals in Kottayam are the Sabarimala Thiruvabharana Ghoshayathra, Erumeli-Petta Kuttu, Pakil Sree Dharmasastha Kshethram Ulsavam, and Sabarimala Makaravilakku Maholsavam among others.
Arjuna Nritham and Margamkali and are the two main dance forms of Kottayam. Margamkali and Parichamuttukali martial arts is widely practised by the Syrian Christian community here. Men and women perform the Margomkali dance separately. The theme songs of this dance form are based on the life of St. Thomas, the apostle.
The Arjuna Nritham is practised by men only and is performed during night with lighting effected by traditional lamps called Nilavilakku. Mayilpeely Thookkam is the other name of Arjuna Nritham. Peacock feathers are used to prepare the lower part of the dancing costume. This dance is held in mid March at the Mahadevar temple at Thirunakkara.This dance form exclusive to Kottayam forms an integral part of Kerala culture.Tourists from around the globe come to Kottayam to watch the performance.
Kottayam is one of the leading districts of Kerala in the field of mass communication, education and culture. Malayala Manorama, Bhashaposhini and Deepika are the major publishing houses of Kottayam which have contributed towards the literary and cultural growth of the city.No wonder the place is called the land of letters!
The restaurants, nightlife and shopping also form a part of contemporary Kottayam society. Kottayam houses some of the finest shopping centers.Some of the finest silks are also available in Kottayam.
Kottayam is indeed a veritable treasure trove of the rich culture and heritage that Kerala carries in her heart, in its finest and most appealing form.
