Parumala Perunnal is a significant annual festival celebrated at the Parumala Church in Pathanamthitta district, Kerala. This weeklong event honors the death anniversary of Bishop Mar Gregorios Metropolitan, the first canonized saint of the Malankara Orthodox Church of Kerala. Held from October 26th to November 2nd, the festival attracts devotees from all over the state and beyond, who come to pay their respects and participate in the various religious activities.

The festival kicks off with the Flag Hoisting Ceremony on October 26th at the Parumala Church, officially marking the beginning of the celebrations. Over the course of the week, the church hosts a series of events, including Seminars, Holy Qurbana (Mass), Fasting Prayers, Retreats, and Meetings. These activities are designed to deepen the spiritual experience of the devotees and to honor the legacy of St. Gregorios.

The culmination of the festival is on November 2nd, known as Orma Perunnal, or the commemorative feast day. This day is marked by special prayers and rituals dedicated to St. Gregorios. Thousands of devotees attend the ceremonial processions that weave through the town, with many pilgrims walking several kilometers to reach the church. The processions are a vibrant and colorful spectacle, reflecting the deep devotion and communal spirit of the participants.

Parumala Church, also known as St. Peter's and St. Paul's Orthodox Church, becomes the focal point of these celebrations. The church is the resting place of St. Gregorios, whose mortal remains are interred there, making it a site of great spiritual significance. The festival offers a unique opportunity for devotees to seek blessings and participate in the rich liturgical traditions of the Malankara Orthodox Church.

Unlike many other festivals in Kerala that blend cultural and religious elements, Parumala Perunnal is primarily focused on devotion. It emphasizes prayer, reflection, and community worship, drawing people from various religious backgrounds who come together in a spirit of unity and peace.

The history of Parumala Perunnal is deeply rooted in the legacy of St. Gregorios, who was instrumental in the spiritual development of the region. Born in Mulanthuruthy, Kerala, he was known for his wisdom and holiness. His contributions to the church and the community were immense, and his life continues to inspire many. The land for the church and seminary in Parumala was donated by Arikupurathu Mathen Karnavar, and it was here that St. Gregorios spent his final years, passing away in 1902 at the age of 54.

The festival not only serves as a time of religious observance but also strengthens the social fabric of Kerala. It showcases the state's tradition of communal harmony, where people from different faiths and backgrounds come together to celebrate and honor the memory of a revered saint. For anyone interested in experiencing the devotional fervor and rich traditions of the Malankara Orthodox Church, a visit to Parumala during the Perunnal is a deeply enriching experience. The serene surroundings, the solemn rituals, and the communal spirit all contribute to making Parumala Perunnal a truly remarkable event in the religious calendar of Kerala.