Dubai witnessed an extraordinary cultural fusion as the MMDE Thrissur Pooram festival, a UNESCO-recognized Indian celebration, was spectacularly recreated at Etisalat Academy during the UAE National Day weekend. The two-day event attracted more than 30,000 attendees who experienced a vibrant showcase of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage through musical performances, celebrity appearances, and innovative technological displays.
The festival’s most poignant moment occurred when organizers paid tribute to UAE leadership through a groundbreaking ceremonial presentation. Seven robotic elephants, each adorned with ceremonial umbrellas bearing portraits of the seven emirates’ rulers, were unveiled in a heartfelt gesture of gratitude. This fusion of traditional Kerala culture with modern technology earned a standing ovation from the captivated audience.
This sixth Dubai edition faithfully recreated elements from the original Thrissur Pooram, which has been celebrated annually in Kerala’s Thrissur district since 1798. The event featured an elaborate Ilanjithara Melam percussion ensemble with artists playing traditional instruments including chenda, ilathalam, kuzhal, and kombu. Malayalam actor Jayaram joined legendary percussionists Mattannur Sankarankutty Marar and Kizhakkoott Aniyan Marar in leading the authentic performances.
The immersive experience included a meticulously crafted replica temple façade, an illuminated Poorappandal canopy, and traditional ceremonial décor complete with artistic umbrellas and temple instruments. This event marked the second recent recreation of the Kerala festival in Dubai, following a similar celebration at Zabeel Park last month commemorating Kerala’s formation day.