Temple Flag Hoisting (Kodi Etram / கொடியேற்றம்) is the sacred ceremony that marks the official beginning of a temple festival (Thiruvizha). It is one of the most important rituals, symbolizing an invitation to the deity, devotees, and divine beings to participate in the festival.

Significance
Official inauguration of the temple festival.
Represents the victory of good over evil.
Signals the start of all festival rituals and cultural events.
Devotees believe the deity's blessings become especially auspicious during the festival period.
Ceremony Sequence
Temple priests perform Ganapathi Homam and special prayers.
Sacred rituals (Abhishekam and Alankaram) are offered to the presiding deity.
The festival flag, often featuring the deity's symbol, is sanctified with Vedic chants.
The flag is slowly raised on the Kodimaram (temple flagpole).
Temple bells ring, Nadaswaram and Thavil musicians perform, and devotees chant prayers.
Deepa Aradhana is performed, followed by the distribution of Prasadam.
Traditional Highlights
Nadaswaram and Thavil music
Vedic chanting
Floral decoration of the Kodimaram
Devotee procession
Breaking of coconuts as an offering
Distribution of prasadam
Sample Event Schedule
Time Activity
5:30 AM Temple opens & Suprabhatham
6:00 AM Ganapathi Homam
7:00 AM Special Abhishekam
8:00 AM Alankaram
8:45 AM Flag worship (Kodi Poojai)
9:00 AM Kodi Etram (Flag Hoisting Ceremony)
9:30 AM Deepa Aradhana & Prasadam
10:00 AM Devotional music and Annadhanam
Announcement

Temple Flag Hoisting (Kodi Etram)
The auspicious flag hoisting ceremony marks the grand commencement of our annual temple festival. All devotees are warmly invited to participate and receive the blessings of the deity. Let us gather in devotion and celebrate this sacred occasion together. May the festival bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to all. 🙏