Today marks the Karkidaka Vavu Bali rituals, with thousands of devotees expected to flock to temples across Kerala to perform Bali Tharpanam, a ritual dedicated to honoring departed ancestors. The ceremonies began at 2 AM and will continue until noon. Due to adverse weather conditions, special security measures have been implemented at river banks, including the deployment of fire force and scuba teams in high-risk areas.
The Travancore Devaswom Board has mobilized 500 Devaswom staff and 600 temporary staff to manage the large crowds at major temples such as Thiruvallam Parashuram Temple, Aluva Shiva Temple, Varkala Janardhanaswamy Temple, Thirumullavaram Temple, and Kadinamkulam Temple. In addition, 260 priests will oversee the rituals at these locations.
