On February 17, 2026, the dry paddy fields near Thiruvanikkavu Bhagavathy Temple in Thrissur, Kerala, came alive with festival spirit. Groups of men from villages arrived carrying giant poikuthiras—big motif horses made of bamboo and paddy straw. They marched proudly to the temple, their arrival greeted with loud cheers and rhythmic claps across the sun-baked fields. The horses lined up on the northern fields as a grand procession began at 2 p.m., driven by the powerful sounds of Panchavadyam drums. The vibrant atmosphere grew with thrilling melam percussion and dazzling fireworks that ignited excitement among thousands of spectators. The heart of the festival was the famous Kuthirakkali dance. Villagers, smeared with red mud and drenched in sweat, lifted and tossed the giant horses high while dancing around the temple. Each group performed with joyful pride, their bells jingling and drumbeats blending into a lively, magical soundscape. This raw display of energy and devotion turned the temple grounds into a vivid scene of living folklore. Other cultural performances like Poothan and Thira added to the festival's charm. Uniquely, Machattu Mamangam features no elephants, focusing instead on human spirit and craftsmanship. The Thekkumkara division leads the event this year, drawing large crowds from near and far. As night falls, the festival promises vibrant musical acts, including a grand performance by playback singer Vijay Yesudas and traditional rhythms from artists like Sadanam Ramakrishnan. The day concludes with a stunning fireworks show, sealing Machattu Mamangam 2026 as a powerful celebration of Kerala’s rich tradition, community, and culture.