Nakshatra Thadakam opens at Malayattoor

Malayattoor: The Nakshatra Thadakam (pool of stars) mega carnival at Manappattuchira, base of Kurishumudi hill here, began on Christmas day.

A team led by the Janakeeya Vikasana Samithi in Malayattoor has decorated the 3-km stretch around the 110 acre-wide Manappattuchira check dam with 10,017 stars. The carnival will conclude after burning the papaanji on New Year's Eve.

The area has been all decked up and a large star, lit up with LEDs, has been installed on the middle of the lake.

Star houses and tree houses are built on the banks of the lake for the visitors. A trade fair, conducted jointly by the panchayat, the social service division of the Archdiocese of Ernakulam-Angamaly and various Kudumbasree units, is under way as part of the carnival. An amusement park and a food court have been set up on the banks of the lake.

The panchayat will also conduct a competition to find the best decorated house for those living on the banks of the lake. Residents can register for the competition by paying Rs 100. The award will be given on the culmination day, when Malayattoor will be named as village of stars.

Everyday, celebrations begin when invited guests switch on the lights and the festivities will conclude at 11 pm.

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