A glimpse of the celebrations in store for this year's Thrissur Pooram was witnessed Friday evening as the cultural capital was lit up by a brilliant sample fireworks display.
The display that began by 7.30 pm gradually grew in intensity and excitement as the Thiruvambady and Paramekkavu devaswoms tried to outdo each other.
Thiruvambady's was the first chance and Paramekkavu matched them with equal extravagance to the delight of Pooram lovers.
Rains soon followed but it could not dampen the mood set by the sample display. The much-awaited annual temple festival will be held on April 30.
On the eve of the Pooram, 'chamaya pradarshanam' will be held. The festivities on Pooram day will go deep into the night.