Thiruvananthapuram: “Neither elephants nor fireworks for festivals.”
This was a forewarning given by Kerala’s iconic sage-reformer Sree Narayana Guru over a century ago.
His foresight has proved prophetic, as fireworks-related mishaps associated with festivals continue to claim lives in Kerala—and elsewhere in India.
The recurrence of such accidents makes a compelling case for redefining the format of festivals to make them safe, sustainable and responsible.
The latest in a series of such tragedies was the explosion at a fireworks mixing unit in Mundathikode near Thrissur earlier this week, which claimed 15 lives and left several others seriously injured.
Those killed in the devastating blast and subsequent fire were labourers engaged in mixing chemicals used in fireworks meant for the famed Thrissur Pooram, scheduled for April 26.
Often described as the “Festival of Festivals,” Thrissur Pooram attracts over a million people every year, drawn largely by its grand finale—an elaborate fireworks display held near the Vadakkunnathan Temple.
The display is marked by a competitive spectacle between the Paramekkavu and Thiruvambady temple groups, creating a dramatic light-and-sound experience.
Another defining feature of the festival is the procession of caparisoned elephants, with priests and mahouts perched atop, holding ornate parasols—making it one of Kerala’s most visually striking traditions.
While Thrissur Pooram holds iconic status, several other festivals across Kerala—both temple and church-based—also feature fireworks and elephant processions.
Following the Mundathikode tragedy, temple authorities have decided to skip fireworks this year.
Festival-related fireworks accidents, however, are not new. Reports suggest that 474 lives have been lost in 51 such mishaps over the past century in Kerala.
The recurrence of these incidents strengthens the argument for safer and more sustainable alternatives.
One suggestion is to move away from highly inflammable chemical-based fireworks and explore safer options or controlled displays.
While lapses in enforcing safety norms and explosive handling protocols are often cited as causes, repeated accidents suggest that ensuring foolproof compliance remains a challenge.
The debate also extends to the use of elephants in festivals.
Animal rights advocates have called for a ban on elephant processions, pointing out that the animals are made to endure long hours amid deafening noise—often leading to distress and, in some cases, violent behaviour.
Traditionalists argue that elephants are integral to ritual practices. However, a middle path could be limiting their use instead of staging large-scale processions that compromise both safety and animal welfare.
Despite its reputation as a socially progressive state, Kerala has often faced criticism for the treatment of captive elephants.
The state has one of the largest populations of captive elephants in India, many maintained by temples. These animals are often donated by politicians and business houses, though some temples have begun encouraging symbolic offerings instead.
