Karkidaka Vavu today; Balitharpanam only at homes

Thiruvananthapuram: Considering the spread of COVID, Karkidaka Vavu Bali rituals will not be allowed in public places. The government has instructed that the rituals must be performed only at homes.

Temples under Travancore Devaswom Board had earlier decided not to allow Karkidaka Vavu Bali rituals. Other private temples too have backed this decision.

Karkidaka Vavu, where devotees perform balitharpanam to pay obeisance to their ancestors, is observed today and devotees perform the rituals on the banks of rivers including the Kalpathipuzha and Bharathapuzha under the guidance of priests. However, this year, the Covid pandemic has taken over the age-old practice and no balitharpanam will be performed in public spaces.

Most of the devotees will be performing the balitharpanam at homes.