As part of Onam celebrations, as many as 91 local self-government institutions in Kozhikode district in Keralam will compete in the Pookkalam (floral carpet) Competition 2026, organised by the Department of Tourism, District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC), and the district administration.

The competition will feature grama panchayats, block panchayats, municipalities, and the Kozhikode Corporation, grouped into 11 clusters. It aims to bring all local bodies in the district together on a common platform to showcase their creativity and celebrate Onam, a press release said here on Wednesday (August 19, 2026).

​The winner will be awarded a cash prize of ₹ 1 lakh and a trophy, while the second- and third-placed teams will receive ₹50,000 and ₹25,000 respectively, along with trophies. Special trophies and certificates will also be awarded to the top three teams in various categories.

The judging process includes live video monitoring, geotagged photographs, video scanning, and physical verification to ensure transparency. The competition will follow an environment-friendly approach, with participants required to use only natural materials. Plastic, artificial colours, and synthetic materials are strictly prohibited.

​Registration is open till August 21 at the office of the Joint Director of the Local Self Government separtment. The competition will take place on August 22 from 9 a.m. to noon. Each local body may field a team of three to five members.

​The event is expected to showcase the collective creativity and environmental consciousness of local self-government institutions as part of Onam celebrations in the district.