Karkidaka Vavu Rituals Begin Across Keralam, Thousands Gather to Offer 'Bali Tharpanam'

Thiruvananthapuram: The Karkidaka Vavu Bali rituals have begun in Aluva, with thousands of people arriving at various bali tharpanam centres across Keralam seeking spiritual merit and salvation for their ancestors. The rituals, which began at 2 am today, will continue until 3 pm. Thousands have gathered for the Vavu Bali rituals at several places across the state. In Thiruvananthapuram, heavy crowds are being witnessed at the Thiruvallam Parasuramaswamy Temple, Shankhumukham and Varkala Papanasam.

Heavy crowds are currently present at the Aluva Manappuram. Bali tharpanam (paying obeisance to ancestors) began early in the morning at 40 temporary bali platforms (balithara) set up along the banks of the Periyar. Metro services began from midnight. The positive weather forecast and decrease in rain has come as a relief to devotees.

A pandal has been arranged to accommodate 500 people in a queue at a time for temple darshan. The pathways at the Manappuram have been barricaded and regulated. Although the Irrigation Department has regulated the water level in the river, devotees have been advised to enter the water only by following the instructions of the authorities as the undercurrent remains strong.

The Devaswom Board has also made alternative arrangements to shift the bali tharpanam facilities away from the riverbank to higher ground if weather conditions turn adverse. Facilities for bali tharpanam have also been arranged at several temples across various districts of the state.