Temple Authorities Concerned Over Week-Long Ban on Jumbo Parading

Say that move disrupts long-standing customs and rituals, plans for upcoming festivals

- EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE @Kozhikode

TEMPLE authorities across Kozhikode district have expressed serious concerns after the imposition of a week-long ban on elephant processions, a decision that threatens to disrupt the upcoming festival season. The restriction, enforced due to safety concerns following a tragic incident at the Manakkulangara Bhagavathi Temple in Koyilandy, has left temple officials scrambling for alternatives.

The temporary ban comes at a crucial time, as multiple temple festivals are scheduled in the coming weeks, each requiring between five to nine elephants for traditional processions. Officials cite regulatory and safety reasons for the prohibition, but temple committees argue that the move disrupts long-standing customs and rituals.

"Elephant processions are an integral part of our festivals. This sudden ban puts us in a difficult position, as preparations have been ongoing for months," said a member of a temple festival organising committee.