Kochi: 'Athachamayam'--a colourful cultural celebration that marks the beginning of the 10 day Onam festival-- was held at nearby Tripunithura, capital of the erstwhile Royal kingdom of Kochi Wednesday.
Thousands of artists, schoolchildren and cultural leaders accompanied by caparisoned elephants, various folk art forms, floats and musical ensembles participated in the Chamayam procession.
Thousands of people, including tourists, gathered at Tripunithura to enjoy beauty of the festival which began soon after Governor P Sathasivam hoisted the flag at the Boy's High School ground in the morning.
Civil supplies Minister Anoop Jacob and Excise Minister K. Babu attended the function.
Around 50 traditional folk items were featured in the procession.
Tableaux, school scouts from schools in the neighbourhood and Kudumbashree and Asha workers were part of the event.
The erstwhile kings of Kochi celebrated Onam with great pomp and gaiety.
During the Royal reign, the Maharaja of Kochi used to participate in the procession march from Tripunithura to the Vamanamoorthy temple at Thrikakkara which was attended by representatives from all communities including Hindus, Christians and Muslims.