SHAH RUKH KHAN

Two decades in the Indian entertainment industry, has seen him from a television actor to a Bollywood superstar and producer. When he stepped back into television again in 2007, it was as the host to Kaun Banega Crorepati, one of the most popular TV shows of all times. Throw in several awards of recognition and his unquestioned popularity and there you have it – Shah Rukh Khan, the stuff legends are made of and then some.

Beginnings

Shah Rukh Khan was born in Delhi on Nov 2 1965, to Taj Mohammed Khan, a freedom fighter from Peshawar and Lateefa Mohammed, from Rawalpindi, who was the adopted daughter of Major General Shah Nawaz Khan of the Janjua Rajput clan, who served as a General in the Indian National Army of Subash Chandra Bose. His father and mother moved to India before the Partition. Khan has an older sister Shehnaz, fondly known as LalaRukh.

Khan did his schooling at St.Columbus where he excelled in academics, sports and drama. While here he won the Sword of Honor, a recognition given to students who embodied the spirit of the school. He went on to acquire an Honors degree in Economics from the Hansraj College. He also started out to obtain a Masters degree in Mass Communications from Jamia Millia Islamia, before looking the Bollywood way.

He moved to Mumbai in 1991 after the death of his parents. He married Gauri Khan, a Hindu, and they have two children Aryan and Suhana and live in a palatial home called Mannat in Bandra, Mumbai.

Journey

Khan’s debut as an actor was in 1988, in a TV serial called Fauji, about life in the Indian Army, where he played the role of Commander Abhimanyu Rai. He appeared in another serial called Circus, about performers in a circus, in 1989. He also played a small part in a TV film written by Arundhati Roy called In which Annie gives it to those ones. 

His debut into Bollywood was with Deewana, in 1992, which was an instant hit. His performance stood out despite sharing screen space with accomplished actors like Rishi Kapoor and Divya Bharati. He went on to win the Best Debut category of the Filmfare Awards, a beginning of many more to come.

Deewana was followed by Maya Memsaab which created some amount of controversy over ‘explicit’ scenes. In 1993 he came out with two movies both of which were successful and in both movies he portrayed negative characters, which most top actors at that time considered risqué. In Darr he played the role of an obsessive man who stalks and terrorizes a woman he loves. In Baazigar, where he was cast as a murderer motivated by revenge, won him the Filmfare Best Actor Award. He won the Filmfare Critics Award for Best Performance for his role as young musician in Kabhie Haan Kabhie Naan.

In 1994, we saw him winning the Filmfare Best Villain Award for Anjaam where he once again played a negative role. In 1995, he played the part of Raj in one of the biggest blockbusters of Hindi cinema, which is still running in Mumbai theaters, Aditya Chopra’s Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge. He took home another Filmfare Best Actor Award. He didn’t see a lot of successes in 1996. However, it took a turn for the better in 1997, when Dil To Pagal Hai released, a movie about a love triangle between three dancers, and he walked away, yet again, with the Filmfare Best Actor Award.  The same year he was also nominated for Yes Boss. Karan Johar’s directorial debut Kuch Kuch Hota Hai in 1998 received a huge audience response and won Khan another Filmfare Best Actor Award. His performance in Mani Rathnam’s Dil Se, which revolved around terrorism, was also critically acclaimed.

At the turn of the century, he saw successful releases in Mohabbatein, where he worked alongside Amitabh Bacchan and Josh with Aishwarya Rai. He won the Filmfare Critics Award for Best Performance for Mohabbatein. He, along with Juhi Chawla, started their production company Dreamz Unlimited and produced and starred in Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani, which didn’t fare very well. The epic movie Asoka, where he played the Emperor Asoka and the multi-starrer Kabhie Khushi Kabhie Gham, made their mark in 2001. He was cast as the tragic lover Devdas, in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s remake of  the award winning Devdas, in 2002. It won him the Filmfare Best Actor Award.  In 2003, he received nominations for his performance in Kal Ho Na Ho and his production house saw it’s first success in Chalte Chalte. 

His second production house, Red Chillies Entertainment, saw light in 2004 and it’s first release Farah Khan’s debut Main Hoon Na, was one of the biggest successes of the year, alongside his other movie the same year, Veer-Zaara. He walked away with the Filmfare Best Actor Award for his role in Swades though the movie created hardly any ripples in the box-office. Another big release from Red Chillies Entertainment in 2005 was Paheliin which he played a ghost. It was India’s entry to the Oscars. A documentary on Khan titled The Inner and Outer World of Shah Rukh Khan was produced by Nasreen Munni Kabir in 2005. Another multi-starrer directed by Karan Johar in 2006 was Kabhie Alvida Na Kehna that made a splash in India and overseas. He also starred in the remake of the seventies hit Don. The Filmfare Best Actor Award landed in his hand yet again in 2007 for his role as Kabir Khan in Chak De India where he is the tough coach for the girls’ hockey team. His performance in Farah Khan’s Om Shanthi Om also won him nominations.

Khan was back again on the small screen, after KBC, in 2008 as the host of Kya Aap Paanchvi Pass Se Tez Hain?, which is the desi version of Are you smarter than a fifth grader? There are more movies lined up to release in the later part of 2008 and 2009, like Billo Barber and My Name Is Khan, as he shows no signs of slowing down.

Other worthy achievements
Khan is one of the Bollywood actors whose life size wax statue was created and displayed at Madame Tussaud’s Museum in London. He has been honored with the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Order of the Arts and Literature) award by the French government in recognition for the mark he has made in the industry.

MOVIES

Don 2 (2011) - Don

Ra. One (2011) - G.One

Happy New Year (2010)

Bola Khoobsurat Hai Tu (2010) - Special Appearance as himself

My Name is Khan (2010) - Rizwan Khan

Dulha Mil Gaya (2010) - Raj

Kal Kisne Dekha (2009) - special appearance

Billu Barber (2009) - Sahir Khan

Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi (2008) - Surinder Sahni and Raj Kapoor

Bhootnath (2008) - Special appearance

Krazzy 4 (2008) - special appearance in item song

Om Shanti Om (2007) - Om Kapoor/ Om Makhija

Chak De India (2007) - Kabir Khan

Jhoom Barabar Jhoom (2007) - Special Appearance

I See You (2006) - Special Appearance

Don (2006) - Don/Rahul

Kabhi Alvida Naa kehna (2006) - Dev Saran

Alag (2006) - Special Appearance (Song)

Baiju Aur Tansen (2006) - Bajiu

Kaal (2005) - Special Appearance (Song)

Kuchh Meetha Ho Jaye (2005) - Himself

Paheli (2005) - Kishen/The Ghost

Silsiilay (2005) - Sutradhar

Swades (2004) - Mohan Bhargav

Veer-Zaara (2004) - Veer Pratap Singh

Main Hoon Na (2004) - Maj. Ram Prasad Sharma

Yeh Lamhe Judaai Ke (2004) - Dushant

Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003) - Aman Mathur (as Shah Rukh Khan)

Chalte Chalte (2003) - Raj Mathur

Saathiya (2002) - Yeshwant Rao (Special Apperance)

Devdas (2002) - Devdas Mukherjee

Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam (2002) - Gopal

Shakti: The Power (2002) - Jaisingh (Drifter)

Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham(2001) - Rahul Raichand (as Shah Rukh Khan)

Asoka (2001) - Asoka (as Shah Rukh Khan)

One 2 Ka 4 (2001) - Arun Verma

Mohabbatein (2000) - Raj Aryan Malhotra

Gaja Gamini (2000) - Shahrukh (Special Appearance)

Har Dil Jo Pyar Karega... (2000) - Rahul (Special Appearence)

Hey Ram (2000) - Amjad Ali Khan (as Shah Rukh Khan)

Josh (2000) - Max

Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani (2000) - Ajay Bakshi

Baadshah (1999) - Raj 'Baadshah'

Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998) - Rahul Khanna

Dil Se.. (1998) - Amarkanth Varma

Achanak (1998) - Himself

Duplicate (1998) - Bablu Chaudhary/Manu Dada (as Shah Rukh Khan)

Dil To Pagal Hai (1997) - Rahul

Gudgudee (1997) - Special Appearance

Koyla (1997) - Shanker (as Shah Rukh Khan)

Pardes (1997) - Arjun Saagar

Yes Boss (1997) - Rahul

Army (1996) - Arjun

Chaahat (1996) - Roop Rathore (as Shah Rukh Khan)

Dushman Duniya Ka (1996) - Special appearance

English Babu Desi Mem (1996) - Vikram/Hari/Gopal Mayur

Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995) - Raj Malhotra (as Shah Rukh Khan)

Guddu (1995) - Guddu Bahadur

Karan Arjun (1995) - Arjun Singh/Vijay

Oh Darling! Yeh Hai India (1995) - No name

Ram Jaane (1995) - Ram Jaane (as Shah Rukh Khan)

Trimurti (1995) - Romi Singh/Bholey

Zamaana Deewana (1995) - Rahul Malhotra

Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa (1994) - Sunil (as Shah Rukh Khan)

Anjaam (1994) - Vijay Agnihotri

Maya (1993) - Maya's Lover

Baazigar (1993) - Ajay Sharma/Vicky Malhotra (as Shah Rukh Khan)

Darr (1993) - Rahul Mehra (as Shah Rukh Khan)

King Uncle (1993) - Anil Bansal

Pehla Nasha (1993) - Himself

Chamatkar (1992) - Sunder Srivastava

Deewana (1992) - Raja Sahay (as Shah Rukh Khan)

Dil Aashna Hai (1992) - Karan (as Shah Rukh Khan)

Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman (1992) - Raju

Idiot (mini) (1991) - Pawan Raghujan

Circus (1989)

Fauji (1988) - Abhimanyu Rai PRODUCER

Ra. One (2011) - producer

Happy New Year (2010) - producer

Kaal (2005) - producer

Paheli (2005) - producer

Chalte Chalte (2003) - producer

Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani (2000) - producer

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PROPER MONEY MANAGEMENT TIPS FOR PARENTS

Many people will tell you that having children is expensive. However, with proper budgeting and money management, you can save  money and save your family some pretty serious financial headaches. Here are a few tips and ideas on how to properly manage money for parents:
Plastic is becoming more and more popular, with people preferring to use their debit or credit cards over cash. More and more businesses are using automated scanners to scan cards. Direct deposit is also becoming very popular, as it eases the hassle of depositing money in person. For example, Reach cards are a great prepaid credit card that uses direct deposit allowing you easy access to money you need without hassle.
Buying generic products is another great way to save some money, as oftentimes the generic brand tastes the same and offers the same product as the name brand, but it costs less than the name brand.
Take advantage of consignment stores and thrift shops. These stores are oftentimes much more affordable than name brand stores and big box stores. Many of these stores have gently used clothing and other products to help save you money. You can even find name brand clothing at these stores that would have originally cost you way more at their original store.
Save a bit from each paycheck, and put it into a savings account each week. You will have accumulated a hefty sum after a few months, for emergencies, bills, family fun nights, vacations, or as a reward.

PARENTING TIPS FOR PREGNANCY

Some people believe that good parenting should begin the moment two people learn that they are becoming parents. Just because a child is developing inside of a womb does not mean that it does not need parenting. The following paragraphs will provide some tips for good parenting during pregnancy.
The most important thing to remember is that stress should be avoided when a woman is pregnant. If she feels stress, her baby feels stress and this could cause potential problems to the baby. To be the best parent you can be during the earliest stages of your baby’s life, it is important to do the best you can to make sure he is stress-free while he is developing.
There comes a point in a woman’s pregnancy when her baby develops his ability to hear. Once this time comes, his mother or father can read to him and he can hear it. Many experts have reported that reading to unborn children can help their development in great ways.
In addition to reading to your unborn baby, you can also play nice music for him to listen to. Music can be calming to babies during development. It considered very good parenting to play music to your baby while he is in the womb.
While your baby is developing, he begins to recognize familiar voices, especially those of his parents. Sometimes a baby will become much more active in the womb when he hears his mother or father’s voice. Talking to your unborn child is another good parenting tip.
Some people believe that good parenting should begin when a baby is conceived. Experts have reported that taking steps to be good parents during pregnancy can help your child once he is born into this world. If you are a good parent during his development stages in the womb, you will be helping your child in so many ways.

PARENTING THE ADOPTED

We are all born with a deep seated need to parent children.  This is not always the case, but for those of us who desire to have a child and cannot for whatever reason will in some cases opt to adopt a child.  Most people prefer to adopt an actual infant rather than an child who is older because of obvious reasons,but for those who adopt a child after the age of two, parenting can be a task.
The reason it is so hard to adopt a child after the age of two is because at this point, they retain memories and their behaviors have been affected by their surroundings.  With an infant, you are there from the beginning.  You get to make the memories that they can think back upon for years.  The behavior they learn is a direct result of their environment.  So if the child over two whom you are thinking of adopting has had a rough few years, it can have a detrimental effect on bonding and future behavioral issues.
Adopting a baby is by far the most ideal for most potential parents, but adopting an older child is a way to give a home to a child who needs one.  A baby will always be adopted, an older child has a much smaller chance of getting adopted and the chances get smaller and smaller the older they get.  While yes, it can be hard to raise an older adopted child, it can be extremely rewarding.  These kids tend to have a greater appreciation for the smaller things in life.  They are more concerned that their adoptive parents spend time with them more than than money.  You may have to shell out a few bucks for counselling later, but the reward and feeling you get when you earn the love of a child is worth any price paid.  Adoption can be expensive, but raising any child at all can be expensive.  If you are interested in becoming a parent and cannot do so on your own or you simply want to offer a child a home, consider adopting a child that is older.

PARENTING A CHILD AFTER A DIVORCE

Parenting a child after a divorce can be a bit stressful, for both the parents and the child.  When a child is subject to a divorce and the loss of the family they have known for years, it can affect their ability to cope, their education and possibly their future social skills.  Seeking the counsel of a child psychologist can be extremely beneficial and help both te parent and the child come to terms with the divorce, even if it was an ugly divorce that involved child custody hearing in family court.
We would all like to think that we can handle any issue that our children may go through, but we are not always able to help them with deeper issues.  Divorce can cause trauma that in some cases is not completely evident to their parents.  This is why seeking the help of a professional can be such an important option.  They are far more equippedto handle the deeper issues and help bring them to light for both the child and the parents to deal with. They can help your child stay on track with their education and their social skills.
Most children do not understand why their parents are divorcing and how to cope with it.  In many cases these children believe that they are responsible for the splitting up of their parents.  When it comes to divorce, most children do not even know that they are subconsciously harboring issues that can affect the rest of their lives.  Divorces can change the way they look at relationships and life in general.  If the issues that a child retains after a divorce are not immediately taken care of, the lasting affects can be irreparable.  It is never the fault of a child when two parents get a divorce and that is the number one thing we must stress to them.  Seeking the help of a professional can ensure that they have no lasting issues.

ENGAGED TO PLANNING FOR A WEDDING

                     
Truly one of the most exciting points in any couple’s lives is found in getting married, especially if one of the reasons you have decided to get married is to adopt. Time can pass all too quickly in these times, when it seems as if in one moment you are researching diamond engagement rings and then tying the knot. In these busy moments, there are some basic elements that shouldn’t be forgotten.
Staying organized is one of the best things you can do amidst all of the planning. Find some method that works for you, such as a dedicated wedding organizer, piece of software, or internet site designed for this purpose. You want to keep all of your reservations, contacts, and everything else written down for quick reference. When you stay organized, you will have everything together and ready when it is needed.
Give yourself time for the larger aspects of the wedding. The site of the wedding, reception, and other major elements should be planned well in advance; some sources, for instance, tell you to book the site of the reception a year in advance, as some sites are in large demand in peak wedding times of the year. Take care of the larger aspects, and the smaller ones can be taken in stride.
Never forget to give yourself time to enjoy this point in your life. Don’t get too overwhelmed or stressed with all of the things to think about; you can take them one step at a time. For you and your future spouse, this is truly an exciting moment. Keep everything within reason to stay level-headed during the stressful moments.
In no time you will get past the more anxiety-provoking aspects of planning a wedding. Use those you know for advice on certain elements, and enjoy this amazing time in your life. Plan according to your budget for your dream wedding.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF ADOPTIONS

The term adoption is a very generalized term. There are actually half a dozen different types of adoptions. If you are unfamiliar with the process of adoption it is a good idea to learn about the different types of adoptions are out there. Each adoption process while slightly different all works to bring a child into your life.
Here are the different types of adoptions that are out there and a little bit about them.
Independent Adoptions. Independent adoptions are usually involved when both sides do not want an adoption agency to be involved with the adoption process. Both birth parents and adoptive parents agree to the terms and usually have a lawyer that helps with the legal process. In most cases independent adoptions have been prearranged between two parties who already know each other in advance. At the moment, three states do not allow independent adoptions so if you are considering this type of adoption you might want to check your state’s laws.
Agency Adoption. This is the most traditional type of adoption and involves all parties going through an agency. The agency will set up the birth parents with a couple wishing to adopt. There are private and public agencies that handle adoptions.
Open Adoption. This can be available in both agency or independent adoptions and involves the adoptive parents being involved in the birth mother’s pregnancy. Open adoptions can also be a term where the adoptive parents allow the birth parents to have occasional contact with the child after the birth.
Stepparent Adoption. This is the adoption of a spouse’s child from a previous relationship. Under stepparent adoption the process is quicker and a lot less troublesome. California recently passed a law that allowed same sex partners to adopt a partner’s child under this form of adoption.

DIVORCE

Divorce:

Not Always About the Husband and Wife

When children are separated between two parents, it can be hard on them, and for others it can pass them as if it never happened. Depending on how close they were to the other parent, has a direct effect on how they will react to different situations throughout the rest of their lives. It is not always easy on children to not see the other half of the family; it can be hard on them. Not having a family together can cause havoc on a child’s self esteem and future relationships.
Civility between the parents is essential.  As long as the reason for the divorce did not involve abuse of any kind, a child deserves to be a part of both of their parent’s lives.  It is extremely unhealthy for a child to be separated from a parent and have animosity in the air.  Children can pick up on negative feelings and react ways that will affect many things that dictate their future.  Being sensitive to the way they feel about the situation can keep them from acting out in ways that are not conducive to a healthy future.
Some children will rebel when there is only one parent in the picture. Divorce is related to failing grades and behavior issues with children.  This is particularly true when both parents are so wrapped up in their own issues, that the child’s welfare and studies take second chair.  Going through a divorce and having children is tough, but tougher on the kids.  You have to pay more attention to the children than you would otherwise, as this is an extremely sensitive time.  The way you handle this situation with your kids can directly affect the rest of their lives, their future families and even their success as an adult.  As a parent, it is your responsibility to make a divorce as comfortable and as civil as possible.

VILANGANKUNNU

Vilangankunnu is a situated in 7 km away from Thrissur. This hillock has been converted by the Tourism Department as an amusement park. This is a beautiful hill which is a good picnic spot. The Children's Park on this beautiful hillside picnic spot offers amusement rides, where children can relax and play. While grown ups relish the scenic beauty of Thrissur town and kol wetlands of Thrissur from the hilltop. Many people came here to enjoy the beauty of sunset. The breeze of Vilangankunnu that pass through heart make us cool, and bring us to the world of natural beauty.

The Tourism Department as well as State Medicinal Plants Board, Thrissur joins hands to make the hill more greenish, so in future Vilangankunnu become a notable tourist place in Thrissur. Passengers can reach here by traveling 5 km on Thrissur-Kunnamkulam road. It remains open from 07.00 am until 07.00 pm.

PEECHI DAM

Peechi Dam, 23 km from Thrissur is the main irrigation project of the city, What started as an irrigation project has now burgeoned into a popular picnic spot ,which offers boating facilities at the reservoir. The dam is built across the Manali River and is endowed with an immense catchment area that stretches across an expanse of nearly 3200 acres. The project is intended for irrigating 17555 Ha land in Mukundapuram, Thalappally, Thrissur and Chavakkad Taluk, through the left and right bank main canal and Branch canals. In addition to this, drinking water is supplied to Thrissur Corporation and Eight near by Panchayat from this reservoir.

The colorful and beautifully tended botanical gardens as well as the rippling fountains accentuate the beauty of the place. The Peechi Wildlife Sanctuary, located a mere 15 km away from Thrissur is also a big draw with the tourists. Peechi, a small and picturesque town, sited at a distance of 23 km from Thrissur , is one of the ideal spots to attract tourists with its vast catchment area, botanical gardens and lush green forests.

GURUVAYUR TEMPLE

Guruvayur Temple

Location: Guruvayur, Thrissur District, Kerala
Dedicated to: Lord Krishna
Significance: An ancient temple that is considered as the southern Dwarka
How to reach: One can easily reach Guruvayur Temple by taking regular Buses or by hiring Taxis from anywhere in Kerala

Guruvayur Temple is an important and popular pilgrimage in Kerala. Located in Guruvayur town of Thrissur district, Guruvayur Temple is easily accessible by regular bus services that are available throughout the state of Kerala. The nearest airport is sited as Kochi that lies at a distance of 90 kms from Guruvayoor. Thrissur comprises the nearest railway station at a run of 29 kms from the temple.

Guruvayur Temple is supposed to have been 5,000 years old. In those times, it was known as "Bhooloka Vaikunta" (Abode of God on Earth). The term 'Guruvayur' is said to have been derived from two words, 'Guru' (preceptor of the gods) and 'Vayu' (god of winds). The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is also known by the name of Guruvayoorappan. Due to its reverence, Guruvayur Temple is also known as 'Dakshina Dwaraka' (Southern Dwarka).

The presiding deity is Lord Krishna is the form of Maha Vishnu (Lord Krishna is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu). The image is depicted in a standing posture, which has four hands holding Shankh (conch), Sudarshana Chakra (a serrated disk), Lotus and Mace. The image is worshipped as Balakrishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is carved out of a rare stone named Patala Anjana. The walls of the main shrine are festooned with beautiful mural paintings and intricate carvings.

Festivals
Festivals like Ulsavam, Vishu, Ashtami Rohini, Mandalam, Ekadasi, Ashtami Rohini, Kuchela's Day, Chembai Music Festival and Narayaneeyam day are the major occasions that observe special celebrations at Guruvayur Temple. On special events, the sacred images are brought out to take in a procession in Guruvayur town. At the time of festivals, the entire is decorated with inestimable butter lamps, which truly recreates the impression of the former age.

Legend
The Legend says that when the temple of Dwarka was submerged under the sea, Guru and Vayu were assigned the job to discover an equally holy place for a fresh temple. Ultimately, when they discovered the site, the place came to be known as Guruvayur and the deity, Guruvayurappan. The main idol is said to have got installed by Brihaspati (Guru) and Vayu, by the blessings of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

The oldest mention of Guruvayur is traceable in 'Kokasandesam', a fourteenth century Tamil work. In this scripture, it is stated as Kuruvayur. Guruvayoor has scores of references in the works of 16th century. The temple actually got famous with Melpathur's 'Narayaniyam'. At this abode of Lord, maximum number of marriages is observed every year.

Architecture
The structure of the temple gives the hints of typical Kerala temple architecture. The temple is believed to have been designed by the divine architect, Vishwakarma. The temple is erected in such a way that Sun God (Surya) himself pays homage to Vishnu on Vishu day. At this juncture, the first rays of Sun descend directly at the feet of Vishnu. The main doorway to the shrine is from the eastern side. Form the main doorway; one can observe the idol of the Lord.

In the temple, the 'Chuttambalam' is a gold-plated 'dhwajastambham' or flag-mast, which extends to the height of 33.5 meters. The ''dipastambham' or pillar of lamps, is another attraction that looks fascinating when lightened in the evenings. The doorway to inner sanctum is sited just ahead of this pillar. On two raised plinths, there are ten beautifully carved pillars on the either side of the passage. It was here the golden slokas of 'Narayaniyam' were written, in the praise of Lord Guruvayur.

THRISSUR

Thrissur is known as the 'cultural capital of Kerala' because of its rich cultural heritage and hisory. The name Thrissur is derived from the word 'Thrissivaperur' which in local language means 'the town with the name of Lord Shiva'. The British called this region as Trichur and later in 1990 the name changed to Thrissur. The district Thrissur have a huge part in the cultural, commercial and religious development of the state. Thrissur have a strong and deep history that starts from early sangam era. Many rulers and dynasties ruled Thrissur beginning with Zamorins of Kozhikode, Tipu Sulthan of Mysore and Europians like Dutch, British etc. But the City gained its prominance under the rule of Raja Rama Varma (1790-1805) who is most commenly known as Sakthan Thampuran because of his enormous power to rule people.
The town is built on an elevated ground, at the top of which is the famous VADAKKUMNATHAN" Temple where the very colourful and vibrant Thrissur pooram take place. He reconstructed Thrissur after the distruction by Tipu Sulthans army. Thus Sakthan Thampuran is known as the architect of modern Thrissur town. He cleared a forest known as Thekkin kadu (locan language it means 'Teak forest' ) around the famous Vadakkum Natha kshethram and its been the heart of Thrissur town.

The town Thrissur is well connected by road and rail. The town lies 55 km far from Cochin International air-port and 80 kilometer far from Kozhikodu air-port. Thrissur railway station is an important railway station that connects the South India to rest of India through Trivandrum-Chennai and Trivandrum-Mangalapuram routes. KSRTC operates bus services to Thrissur from all important cities in Kerala and also interstate buses are available to reach Thrissur from Madurai, Chennai, Coimbathoor etc. The best time to visit Thrissur is September to March.

Thrissur city have a large number of historic temples such as Thiruvambady temple, Vadakkumnatha temple and Paramekkavu temple, the temples participates in the colorful Thrissur pooram. Thrissur pooram is a spectacular religious festival in South India and known as “mother of all Poorams” which brings thousands of people from around the world. Travel agencies operates appropriate packages for tourists so that they can enjoy the festival. In Thrissur city there are two well known churches, the Our Lady of Lourdes Metropolitan Cathedral and the Our Lady of Dolours " New Church " Basilica. Its the highest South Asia. The famous Sree Krishna temple at Guruvayur lies just 25 km from Thrissur town. And there are many historic temples like Thriprayar Sree Rama Temple, Kodungalloor Bhagavathi Temple, Irinjalakuda Koodalmanikkyam Bharatha Temple, Thiruvilwamala Villuadrinatha Temple etc.

Millions money is traded in this city under the name Gold and thats why Thrissur is Known as the Gold capital of India. All major jeweleries in Kerala have branches in Thrissur and 70% of manufacture of plain gold and rolled gold in Kerala happens in this city. Thrissur city is also an important center of garments made of Silk in Kerala. This city holds the record for the highest number finance companies as they exceeds 1000, both government and private. Three predominant scheduled banks in Kerala, The South Indian Bank, The Catholic Syrian Bank and Dhanalakshmi bank have their headquarters at Thrissur. Diamond polishing and Automobile tyre molding are the remaining industries that plays an important role in Thrissur economy.

Being a cultural center, the Kerala Kalamandalam, Kerala Sahitya Academy, Kerala Lalithakala Academy and Kerala Sangeeth- Nataka Academy are located at Thrissur. Lulu international convention center is in Thrissur which is the second largest convention center in India and largest in Kerala having helipad facilities. The main places that attracts people in Thrissur are here.



Places of Attractions in and around Thrissur

1. Vadakkumnatha temple

Vadakkumnatha temple, lies at the heart of Thrissur town, is one of the oldest temples in Kerala where Lord Shiva is the presiding deity. According to the lore the temple was constructed by Parasurama (The sixth incarnation of Lord Mahavishnu). The temple is a good example of Kerala style of temple architecture. A lot of decorative murals and artworks are there in the temple. The Vadakkumnathan temple is also known as Thenkailasam(Kailasam of South) and Vrishabhachalam.The annual festival of this temple falls at April and that is the world famous Thrissur pooram. The temple is surrounded by Thekkinkadu maithanam and its the main spot of Thrissur pooram. Non Hindus are not permitted to enter the temple. Time to enter the temple is 4.00 am to 10.30 am and then 5.00 pm to 8.30 pm.

2. Archeological museum

The Archeological Museum lies at the Town Hall Road, have a huge collection past remaining. The Museum tells us the story of a gorgeous ancient past. The Museum opens from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm on all days except Mondays and national holidays.

3. Art Museum

Being the cultural capital of Kerala, the Art Museum displays a huge collection of wood carvings, metal sculptures, ancient jeweleries etc . It lies just beside of Archeological Museum in the Town Hall Road and it opens from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm except Mondays and National Holidays. The Town Hall houses the famous Picture Gallery in Thrissur which is decorated by an enormous collection of mural paintings from all parts of the country.

4. Zoo

Thrissur Zoo is a major attraction for students and children which holds a variety animals, lies 2 km far from Thrissur town. The Zoo open from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm except Mondays.

5. Shakthan Thampuran Palace

The palace of Sahakthan Thampuran which is now preserved by the Archeological department is also known as Vadakkekkara Palace. The Palace was reconstructed by Sri. Ramavarma Thampuran in 1795 and it is a good example of Kerala-Dutch mode of architect. Here you can see the tomb of Shakthan Thampuran. The palace located in the heart of Thrissur town.The place situates close to the Vadakkumnathan temple and thats why it formerly known as the Vadakkechira Kovilakom.


6. Kerala Sahitya Academy

The Kerala Sahitya Academy situated at the town is established on August 15, 1956. Its goal is the development of Malayalam language and Malayalam literature in co-operation with Kendra Sahitya Academy. The main attraction in Academy is its huge Library which have two section namely General section and Research section.

7. Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Academy

The place is located at the town which established on April 12, 1938. Its meant for the development of Kerala Dance, Music and Drama culture in collaboration with the Kendra Sangeetha Nataka Academy in Delhi. A performing theater is here under the academy to foster such cultural activities.

8. Kerala Lalithkala Academy

The Academy is also situated in the town, is established in 1962, for promote the sculpture, painting, murals and visual arts culture of Kerala.

9. Appan Thampuram Smarakam

Appan Thampuran Smarakam Established in 1976 in memory of Sri Ramavarma Appan Thampuran who lived in the Kumarapuram palace. Ayyanthole just lies a few kms from Thrissur town and its the 52nd ward of Thrissur municipality. A Cultural Museum is also there.

10. Vilangan Kunnu

Vilangankunnu lies 7 km far from Thrissur and its a good picnic spot on a beautiful hill.

11. Arattupuzha

Arattupuzha is a cultured village is Thrissur district which lies 15 km far from the town. The famous Sree Sastha temple is situated at Arattupuzha and thats the annual festival here is known as the famous Arattupuzha pooram known as 'Devamela' (Union of Gods). The peculiarity of this festival is the procession carrying symbols of 41 deities of neighboring temples to the village. The temple is above 3000 years old.

12. Peechi Dam

Peechi Dam situated 20 km east of Thrissur town. It is built for the irrigation purpose and there is also a wild life sanctuary. Kerala Forest Research Center (KFRC) is located at this village. Boating is permitted in the dam.

13. Guruvayur

Guruvayur (Guruvayoor) is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage centers in South India, because of ‘Bhooloka Vaikunta’, the Sree Krishna temple. It is the biggest temple in Kerala and the largest revenue earner in South India. The temple situates 29 km west of Thrissur town and easily accessible.The deity worshiping here is Lord Krishna in his child form (Balagopalan) and the devotees call him Guruvayurappan, which means ‘Lord of Guru and Vayu’. The name Guruvayur has the etymological meaning ‘The land of Guru Brihaspati and god Vayu’. The Guruvayur temple is also known as the ‘Dwaraka of the South’. The deity here is renowned for his immense healing powers. That’s why you can see huge queue in front of the temple everyday. Devotees offer various poojas to Lord Krishna which ranges from a cheap and simple Archana to very expensive poojas like Udayasthamana pooja, Chuttuvilakku, Krishnattam etc.
Non-Hindus are not permitted to enter the temple. We need certain casuals to enter the temple. No shirt, trouser or churidar is allowed inside the temple. Men and boys need to wear White 'mundu' while women need to wear Sari and young girls need to wear long skirts. The Guruvayur town awakes at 3.00 am. It’s the time of Nada Thurakkal at the temple. The temple closes at 12.30 after the Uchapooja (noon worship) and reopens at 4.30 pm. Nada adakkal is at 9.15 pm, the time the town sleeps. The temple is a main venue for marriages in Kerala. Sometimes the marriage rate here increases up to 100 in a single day. Devotees believes that it is very auspicious to start the married life in front of Guruvayurappan.
The other main attraction at Guruvayur is the Punnathur kotta, an elephant camp under the Guruvayur Devaswom Board, where a minimum of 60 jumbos live. The Guruvayur devaswom board also runs a mural institute where mural art, especially temple art been taught.