On the other side of the tank the caparisoned elephant with the deity takes position.
Usually nine caparisoned elephants take part in the Aaraattu procession, which begins in the afternoon.
A beautifully caparisoned elephant makes the most impressive addition to a state or religious occasion (see page 110).
This elephant is joined by two other caparisoned elephants on either side.
The finale is played in the main hall and the procession comes to a close with the Thadambu being brought down from the caparisoned elephant.
Almost all of the local festivals in Kerala include at least one richly caparisoned elephant.
We learn something of the Moghul attitude to the black buck, the night heron, the nilgai and the caparisoned elephant.
On the day of the festival, ten caparisoned elephants participate in a procession.
It is marked by music and festivities and a colorful procession in which more than 40 caparisoned elephants participate.
Temples that can afford it will usually involve at least one richly caparisoned elephant as part of the festivities.