Feast of St. Sebastian, Athirampuzha

About this event

The Feast of St. Sebastian at St. Mary’s Forane Church, Athirampuzha, in Kottayam district, is one of Kerala’s longstanding Christian religious festivals and has been celebrated since 1647. The historic church, traditionally dated to 835 CE, is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary and is also an important pilgrimage centre associated with the devotion to St. Sebastian. The annual feast is held principally from January 19 to 26, beginning with the ceremonial hoisting of the festival flag. During the feast days, thousands of devotees gather for religious observances and to participate in the public veneration of the statue of St. Sebastian. The grand procession is the central attraction, carrying the saint’s statue through the town amid decorated ceremonial umbrellas, band music and crosses made from gold, silver, bronze and wood. Fireworks are also an established part of the celebrations. The statue at Athirampuzha is traditionally known as the Adiyelpicha Roopam, or “Tortured Figure,” and is distinctive for its representation without the arrows commonly associated with images of St. Sebastian. Devotional practices during the feast include Holy Mass, special prayers and offerings, while traditional cultural elements and music contribute to the festival atmosphere. The church’s long history and collection of religious and historical objects, including its granite cross, altar and bells, add to the heritage significance of the pilgrimage centre. Following the principal festal week, the celebrations continue through the traditional Ettamidam observance, extending the festival period beyond January 26. The feast brings together religious devotion, longstanding local customs and public celebration, attracting pilgrims as well as visitors interested in Kerala’s Christian heritage. Its elaborate procession and distinctive traditions have made Athirampuzha an important destination on Kerala’s religious and cultural calendar. The festival also reflects the enduring role of historic churches as centres of faith, community participation and cultural continuity in the state.

🚆 Railway: Kottayam Railway Station – approximately 8–11 km from St. Mary’s Forane Church, Athirampuzha.

✈️ Airport: Cochin International Airport – approximately 56–80 km, depending on the route/source.

🚌 Bus: Athirampuzha has local bus connectivity, with the St. Mary’s Forane Church bus stop approximately 100 metres from the church.

🏨 Stay: Hotels and homestays are available in Athirampuzha and nearby Ettumanoor and Kottayam. Kerala Tourism lists accommodation facilities within a few kilometres of the church, including Hotel Laya in Athirampuzha.

✅ Notes: The principal feast is held annually from January 19 to 26, beginning with flag hoisting on January 19. The procession and fireworks are major features of the celebration, followed by the traditional Ettamidam observance. Festival dates and programmes should be confirmed with the church before visiting.