Kochi: Thousands of devotees on Saturday offered Karikadaka Vavu Bali to ritualistically propitiate the ancestors. Temples and Bali offering centres across the state witnessed heavy crowds right from morning.
Devotees thronged temples for the ritual in Ernakulam, Malappuram, Wayanad and other districts despite worries of inclement weather.
Tight security is in place in Aluva, on the shores of Periyar, a major Vavu Bali spot which sits on the path of the Idukki dam waters as it courses downstream. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) have been deployed. Alternative arrangements are in place for those who have difficulty in taking the customary dip in the river.
Three boats, 20 lifeboats, 40 life-jackets, special ropes and diving teams have been kept on high alert to meet any eventuality, the authorities said.
The ancient lord Shiva temple in Aluva Manappuram was submerged since gushing water from the Idukki and Idamalayar dams reached Aluva following the opening of shutters of dams.
Shangumugham, Varkala, and Thiruvallom in Thiruvananthapuram district; Thirumullavaram in Kollam, Thirunavaya in Malappuram, and Thirunelli in Wayanad have also reported huge crowds.
Read more: Coast Guard, disaster response team on alert in Aluva for 'Vavu Bali'
