Thu Jan 02 18:07:22 UTC 2025: ## Cochin Carnival Celebrates New Year with Robotic Elephant and Record Crowds
**KOCHI, January 2, 2025** – The annual Cochin Carnival, postponed due to the mourning period following the death of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, finally took place on Thursday, January 2nd, drawing massive crowds to Fort Kochi. The vibrant parade, which usually occurs on December 31st, featured elaborate floats, costumed participants, dancers, and a unique robotic elephant, captivating both local residents and a large number of foreign tourists.
The procession snaked its way from Veli Ground to the Parade Ground, the heart of Fort Kochi’s heritage zone. Attendees arrived via road and the newly extended Water Metro ferries, marking the first time the carnival benefitted from this expanded water transport. The event concluded with a lively musical performance at the Parade Ground. The large turnout highlighted the enduring popularity of the Cochin Carnival as a major New Year’s celebration.
First Piper 