Permanent Pictorial Cancellation inaugural day covers

Description: Madayikonam is a village in Irinjalakuda of Thrissur district and it is 20 km from Azhikode which is a well-known sanctuary strategically nestled in the captivating rural backdrop of Kerala. The region was historically known as Mahabrahmanapuram, an area inhabited by Brahmins and adorned with Hindu temples. The Holy Cross Church, Mapranam, is an archaeologically renowned pilgrim center attracting pilgrims of all castes. The annual ceremony of candle lighting is called "Thirithelikkal". 

It is one of the few churches in Asia which has received the relic of the Holy Cross, part of the Holy blood of Jesus Christ and the bloodstained Holy Cloth used by Veronica to wipe the face of Jesus Christ, all donated from the Vatican by the order of the Pope. Founded in A.D928. It was recently renovated and attracts worshippers beyond religious barriers. A candle made at this Church has been included in the Limca Book of Records as the largest candle in India. the candle has a weight of 1,079 kg and a height of 22 ft. On Sept. 14th every year Christians all over the world celebrate the Exaltation of the Holy Cross and this same day Mapranam Church celebrates the main feast in the name of the Holy Cross. The church holds a distinctive place, serving as a mother institution for nearly 100 churches affiliated with the Dioceses of Trichur and Irinjalakuda.