Photo credits: Renjith

Ochira, located in the Kollam district of Kerala, is famous for the Parabrahma Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Ochirakkali is a mock fight enacted between groups of men dressed as warriors on the battlefield, commemorating the historic battle fought between the Kayamkulam and Chempakasseri soldiers.

Huge statues of colourfully decorated ochira bulls that symbolise Nandi, Shiva’s vehicle, are given as offerings during the festival, which falls during June and July.