Nakshathra Thadakam: Mega carnival at Malayattoor
Nakshathra Thadakam, a.k.a Malayattoor Carnival, is a mega festive carnival held at Manappattuchira, Malayattoor from December 25 to 31. Learn more about Malayattoor Carnival.
The young men at Malayattoor is on their best by holding a mega carnival during the festival days of Christmas and New Year. Today, December 25, 2015, people in and around Malayattoor is excited to witness a never before carnival at Manappattuchira, which is in the base of Kurisumudi hills.
The name says it all: "Nakshathra Thadakam" means Lake of the Stars. The name says it all and it truely reflects the theme of the carnival. Manappattuchira, the large pond at Malayattoor, is illuminated with over 5,000 Christmas stars during this carnival. In addition to the stars around the lake, the entire lake is illuminated with serial lights and huge stars in the middle of the lake.
Another important attraction of the carnival is an 80-feet tall Santa Clause, which is the center of attraction. 
The programs start at 7pm everyday and lasts up to 10 om everyday during the carnival days (December 25 to 31). There are several cultural programs by famous artists from all over Kerala. A lot of foreign tourists also visited the carnival.Manappattuchira
Manappattuchira is a large pond spread across 110 acres of area at the base of Kurisumudi holy hills. This is a natural pond which stores water from the nearby hills during the monsoon season and provides water for irrigation for all the agricultural land in Malayattoor village. Several years ago, a pumping system was established to pump water from the Periyar river due to shortage of water in the pond during summer. Since 2013, water is delivered to this pond from the Idamalayar irrigation canals, which makes sure there is plenty of water in the pond throughout the year.
Boating facility is available in the lake during the carnival days. You can rent pedal boats and rowing boats. 
Nakshathra Thadakam Program Schedule
The carnival lasts for 7 days starting from the Christmas day. There are several cultural programs starting from 6 pm during the days. Many celebrities and political leaders are expected to attend the events everyday.
Location: The lake is located at the base of Kurisumudi holy hill at Malayattoor. The cultural programs are held at the ground next to the lake on the right side just after passing the church at Vimalagiri. 
The huge Santa Clause statue will be set on fire in the mid night of December 31 to welcome the new year.
Photos of Malayattoor Carnival (Nakshathra Thadakam)
It is very interesting to see people celebrate festivals with passion in Kerala. The SantaClaus will be fired during Christmas time, right?