Venchamaram (Flails) are white, flowing tufts used to fan the Thidambu (Representation of the idol) taken atop elephants in ceremonial processions, especially in the
Thrissur Pooram festival of
Kerala. Venchamaram is made from the fine fleece of Chamari, a type of sheep in the
Himalayas. One who holds the venchamaram takes the third row behind the priest who supports the thidambu and another who holds aloft the muthukkuda (decorative parasol). These fluffy tufts are swayed with a flourish in rhythm with the
panchavadyam.
Aalavattom, the circular fan, brings up the rear with its ring of peacock-feathers.
