Amid rain scare, Kerala observes Karkidaka Vavu on Saturday

Aluva (Kochi): The town of Aluva in Ernakulam district has been bustling with preparations for the Karkidaka Vavu, a day traditional Hindus of Kerala offer prayers to the deceased. However, this time, due to rising water and muddy terrain, the traditional sacrifice will not be held on the banks of the Periyar river. Instead, arrangements have been made in the parking lot. On Saturday, 45 priests will lead the ‘bali tharpanam’ ceremony. It is a form of offering food to the deceased or ‘pithrus’, thus satisfying their souls or ‘athmas’ as part of the belief.

To protect against the rain, the Devaswom Board has set up pandals (temporary sheds) for the ceremonies. These can accommodate around 500 people at a time. More spaces are being arranged on Manappuram Road and GCDA Road if needed. Access to the seashore is restricted due to the muddy terrain.

Devotees are prohibited from approaching the riverbank or taking a dip due to concerns that rising water levels in Periyar river. As a result, visitors will not be allowed inside the Manappuram temple. Puja ceremonies began at 5 am on Saturday, and then the ornate model of the deity (thidambu) will be moved to the temple above. The footbridge from Palace Road to Manappuram is also closed; visitors should use Thottakkattukara via Manappuram Road to reach the temple.

Aluva Tahsildar Ramya S Namboothiri, DySP TR Rajesh, and Travancore Manappuram Temple Administrative Officer PR Jyothi have reviewed the preparations at Manappuram. The Advaita Ashram, founded by Sree Narayana Guru, situated across the river, is also offering facilities for the Balitharpanam ceremony.