Padmanabhapuram palace devoid of festive spirit

The age-old Padmanabhapuram palace in Kanniyakumari wore a deserted look all through the 10-day Onam festivities. MK Ajith Kumar, a resident of Padmanabhapuram, said most of the people here gave up on the celebrations to express their solidarity for the people, who were affected by the floods. He further added that the number of visitors to the palace too fell drastically.

“The Padmanabhapuram palace, maintained by the administration of Kerala government, witnessed no celebration on Saturday. Usually, women dressed in traditional Kerala attire lay the ‘Athapookkalam’ (floral decoration). Many, along with their families, throng the illuminated palace on this day.

This Onam, the absence of artificial lights and decked swings in the palace reflected a grim picture. Celebratory events such as boat race, sports competition and cultural programme were a non-starter this year,” Ajith recalled.

DT Next contacted the Superintendent of Palace C Ajith Kumar, who said that on festival days, as many as 3,000 to 4,000 people would access the 6.5 acre palace, however this time only 500 people might have turned up (or even lower).

“Construction of fly-overs between Kulithurai and Marthandam on Trivandrum – Nagercoil road and near Parvathipuram could also be a reason for less number of visitors taking part in the celebrations,” he said.

As an aid for the victims, employees had contributed Rs 1.65 lakh and sent relief material worth Rs 40,000. Also, the money that was allotted for organising the festival was given to help the flood victims in Kerala.