The Beemapally Dargah Shareef hosts what is by far one of the most important and vibrant cultural festivals of the capital city of Kerala - the Chandanakudam Festival or Beemapally Urus. Located in Thiruvananthapuram, this important place of worship is dedicated to Sayyidhathunissa Beema Beevi, a pious Muslim. It is said that she had immense spiritual powers and healing powers. The 11 day festival is celebrated to commemorate her death anniversary and that of her son Ashaikhu Sayidushaheed Maheen Aboobaker. They were both laid to rest at the Dargah Shereef. It is widely believed that they belonged to the family of the Prophet Mohammad. 

According to legends passed down through generations, the mother-son duo had travelled to India from Arabia to spread the teachings of Islam. Being descendants of ‘hakims’ or traditional physicians, they quickly gained popularity owing to their healing capabilities and generous nature. Over time the number of believers increased and they all chose to settle down in the surrounding areas. In fact, it is believed that ever since they were buried on the premises of the mosque, miracles have happened. On of the most commonly known occurrences is that the two wells in the vicinity, both of which are said to have been around in Beevi’s time, have healing powers.

The bright pink mosque attracts visitors from far and near irrespective of religious beliefs. The mosque is said to have been constructed in the 15th-16th century but the mausoleum of Beema Beevi and her son is believed to have existed much before the mosque. 

Every year, the celebrations of the Beemapally Roos start with the hoisting of the festival flag at the beginning of Jama dul Akbar of the Hijra calendar. A colourful festival, the highlight of the Chandanakudam Mahotsavam is that earthen pots (kudams) filled with coins are brought by devotees from far and wide as offerings. These pots are covered with Chandana, the local parlance for sandal wood paste. Hence the name ‘Chandanakudam’. The festival also offers the perfect opportunity to witness indigenous art forms like the Daharamuttu (a performance done with a sword) that is performed within the mosque.

The Beemapally Urus or Chandanakudam Mahotsavam is much more than just a religious festival. It is a celebration of community, culture and faith that has withstood the test of time and transcends the boundaries of caste and creed.