The only dampener being the restriction on fireworks; the ban on the use of potassium chlorate will rob the pyrotechnic shows of their deafening noise, according to media reports.

The government is taking large-scale precautionary measures, especially related to the fireworks show, keeping in mind the tragedy at the century-old Puttingal Devi temple in Kerala, which had claimed 114 lives, almost a year ago.

The festival is known for its grand display of caparisoned elephants, dazzling parasols, and percussion music.

It is celebrated in the Malayalam month of medam (April-May). The festival was introduced by the ruler of Cochin, Raja Rama Varma, in 1798.

During the 'kudamattom' ceremony, the elephant keepers change brightly colored sequined parasols in swift and rhythmic in swift, movements, standing atop the elephants' backs.

The pooram is held at the Thekkinkadu Maidanam in Thrissur.

This year, the ‘kodiyettam’ will be held on Saturday and the sample fireworks will be held on May 3.

Thrissur is about 60km from the Kochi International Airport.

Image: Kerala Tourism