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Each group had kept a contingent of about 40 ‘wrestlers’ ready for the battle, with many of them taking part in the actual bouts on the stage. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Kochi | Silver Rate in Kochi | Bank Holidays in Kochi | Public Holidays in Kochi Stay updated with the latest Kochi news.
Which organises the event, onathallu, also known as kayyankali or onappeda, is governed by strict rules to ensure that participants do not cause excessive injury to their rivals, according to office-bearers of Popular Arts and Sports Centre. Participants, for instance, are prohibited from striking an opponent on the face or wearing metallic objects on their hands or fingers, the organisers said. Onathallu was probably organised as an occasion to showcase the skills of those trained in martial arts and combat, the organisers said.
Hundreds of people thronged the abandoned old bus stand to watch the traditional event. In keeping with tradition, two groups — Thekkumcheri and Vadakkumcheri — participated in the event. The event, usually held on the second day of Onam, had been suspended for the past two years. Chazhikkars (referees) remain present in the ‘combat zone’ to ensure that the rules are followed. However, there have been occasions in the past when the combative spirit of the participants crossed the limits, making it difficult for the chazhikkars to control the situation. Asans (traditional martial arts instructors) from both groups are also present at the arena. Specific spaces were earmarked for training potential members of such forces. Minister O J Janeesh inaugurated the event. Download the TOI App.
There are several stories associated with the origin of Onathallu, but a common thread in these accounts is the need of local rulers and chiefs in earlier times to maintain physically trained ‘private armies’ to protect their financial and social interests. Thrissur : Onathallu, a unique component of the Onam festivities in Kunnamkulam, was held with unprecedented enthusiasm and gaiety on Thursday.