In Kerala, thousands of people gathered at the Thekkinkadu maidan in Thrissur this evening to witness Kudamattom or exchange of colorful parasols held as part of the famous Thrissur Pooram festival. Thirty caparisoned elephants, 15 on each side, stood face to face for the kudamattom, as people lustily cheered when parasols of different hues were raised in the air. The spectacular event is held every year as an occasion to pay obeisance to Lord Shiva, the presiding deity of Vadakkumnathan Temple by smaller temples in the region. A colourful display of fireworks will take place early morning tomorrow. The festivities associated with Pooram will draw to a close by mid day.””