Karkidaka Vavu: Hundreds offer ‘bali tharpanam’ at Aluva in Kerala’s Ernakulam

On August 12, 2026, hundreds of people gathered at Aluva manappuram in Ernakulam, Kerala, to pay homage to their ancestors through the ritual of 'bali tharpanam' during the 'Karkidaka Vavu' festival. The event took place at the Siva temple situated on the banks of the Periyar River. From the early hours of the day, devotees from various parts of the region, including women and the elderly, thronged the temple premises to perform the ritual. Over 40 booths were set up for conducting the ceremonies.

The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), the district administration, and the Aluva municipality authorities had made extensive arrangements to facilitate the event. They removed the accumulated muddy sludge resulting from torrential rains, ensuring that the proceedings proceeded without any hindrance. A clear sky allowed the devotees to perform their rituals unencumbered.

Around 500 police personnel were stationed in the area to maintain order and ensure a smooth conduct of the ceremonies. The Department of Fire and Rescue Services and the bomb squad were also posted on duty to handle any unforeseen emergencies. The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) provided additional transport services to help devotees from across the district reach the venue. Similarly, Kochi Metro offered special services for those visiting Aluva.

The bali tharpanam rituals were also held at the Chelamattom Sree Krishna Temple near Perumbavoor. Thousands of people had gathered at the venue from the early morning to participate in the ceremonies. KSRTC had arranged special services from its Perumbavoor and Angamaly depots to cater to the increased influx of devotees. Additional ceremonies were also held at the balitharas (booths) set up at the Sivarathri Kadavu along the Ashramam Road.