Sun Dec 28 15:36:29 UTC 2025: Summary:

The city of Fort Kochi is preparing for its annual New Year’s Eve Pappanji celebrations, featuring the burning of giant effigies of an old man to symbolize the ushering in of the New Year. This year, a significant change is occurring with two major Pappanji burnings planned: one by the traditional Cochin Carnival Committee at Parade Ground, and another by Gala De Fort Kochi, a local charity club, at Veli Ground. The parallel events, greenlit by a High Court decision after a previous attempt was blocked, are aimed at better managing the expected large crowds of tourists and locals. Both organizers are implementing safety protocols, including barricades, CCTV surveillance, and crowd management strategies, under the supervision of district officials to ensure a safe and successful celebration.

News Article:

Two Giant Effigies to Light Up Fort Kochi for New Year’s Eve

KOCHI, December 28, 2025 – Fort Kochi is gearing up for a New Year’s Eve celebration unlike any other, featuring not one, but two monumental Pappanji burnings. The traditional Cochin Carnival Committee will proceed with their customary effigy burning at Parade Ground, while local charity club, Gala De Fort Kochi, will host a separate event at Veli Ground.

This marks a significant shift in the city’s New Year celebrations, as the parallel events aim to alleviate potential overcrowding issues. “We will impose the same safety protocols at both venues,” stated Deputy Collector K. Manoj. “The Parade Ground is expected to accommodate around 40,000 people and the Veli Ground about 25,000.”

The decision to allow a second Pappanji burning comes after Gala De Fort Kochi secured High Court permission, overturning initial police objections citing safety concerns. Last year’s planned parallel event was canceled out of respect for the passing of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

Organizers from both the Carnival Committee and Gala De Fort Kochi are in the final stages of preparation. K.J. Sohan, advisor to the carnival committee, highlighted extensive security measures, including barricades, CCTV surveillance, and crowd management strategies. Ancy V.J., president of Gala De Fort Kochi, revealed that their effigy is inspired by a character from last year’s Italian Carnival.

District officials have instructed all relevant departments to ensure timely implementation of safety measures at both venues. With tens of thousands of revelers, including international and domestic tourists, expected to attend, Fort Kochi is set to ignite the New Year with a spectacular display of tradition and community spirit.

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