The Kerala High Court allowed the Pappanji burning at Veli on New Year’s Eve, but with stronger safety rules. The distance between the effigy and the safety barricade will be increased to 70 feet. This is to make sure the public stays safe during the event. The celebration will take place with these new safety measures.
The Kerala High Court removed the ban on the burning of Pappanji, a large effigy representing an old man, which is a traditional highlight of the New Year’s Eve festivities at Fort Kochi’s Veli ground. Every year, thousands gather in Fort Kochi on December 31 to witness this event.
This year, however, the police issued a notice prohibiting the burning of the 50-foot tall Pappanji, citing safety concerns.
The decision came in response to a petition by Gala de Fort Kochi, the organization responsible for erecting the effigy this year, which challenged the police notice. The police expressed difficulties in providing adequate personnel at Veli ground, noting that around 1,000 officers are needed at the Parade Ground for the main event, which is more than 2 kilometers away.
In their petition, Gala de Fort Kochi asserted that they had received all necessary permissions and emphasized the long-standing tradition of erecting and burning the Pappanji effigy, which dates back to the 15th century and has been a staple of the Cochin Carnival for many years.
Justice Harisankar V Menon ruled today that the burning can proceed but mandated additional safety measures, including increasing the distance from the base of the effigy to the safety barricade to at least 70 feet.
The Pappanji burning at Veli is a beloved annual celebration in Kerala on New Year’s Eve. This tradition features the incineration of a large effigy called “Pappanji,” which symbolizes bidding farewell to the old year and ushering in the new one. The event draws important crowds and is marked by great enthusiasm.
However, following safety concerns, the Kerala High Court mandated stricter safety measures, including a greater distance between the effigy and safety barricades to enhance public safety.