History of aim of the Cochin Celebration and Carnival:

The origin of this colourful carnival dates back to the 16th century during the Portuguese rule in India. Cochin was the headquarters of the Portuguese in India. It was Portuguese who started this festival as a celebration to welcome the New Year. It is said that the Portuguese ruler’s New Year celebrations were marked with grand parties and fiestas. This tradition continued in the city and became part of the local culture. In the year 1984, the celebrations was bequeathed with the title of Cochin Carnival. When a person hear the name Cochin Carnival, the interesting fact that comes to his/her mind regarding this festival is about a merry making feast. Portugal is known for welcoming the New Year with magnificent firework while eating twelve raisins – one for each month of the New Year. Similarly, during Cochin Carnival there are fireworks in the midnight.

Aim of the Cochin Celebration and Carnival 2021:

Today Cochin Carnival is a grand celebration of culture and tradition of both past and present. It is an amalgamation of different cultures found in the region like Portuguese, Dutch, Gujarati, Konkani, Malayalee, Andhra, Kannada, Tamil, Arab, Punjabi and Anglo Indian culture. The aim of the Cochin Carnival is to promote and maintain five principles namely peace, progress, environment, participation and adventure.

Other things to do during Cochin Celebration and Carnival 2021:

Kochi is a must visit during the ten days of the Cochin Carnival – nearly a perfect way to begin the New Year. The streets are crowded and everything around is decked up. If you want some respite from all the people, head to one of the quaint cafes or art galleries in Kochi.