Thousands converged on the Aluva Manalppuram in Kerala to offer ‘bali tharpanam’ as part of the Karkidaka Vavu rituals. The event, held on July 17, 2023, saw a large gathering of devotees, including women and the elderly, who arrived at the temple premises as early as midnight. The Travancore Devaswom Board, in collaboration with the district administration and Aluva municipality authorities, made extensive arrangements for the rituals, ensuring a smooth and organized event. The ceremonies began at 4 a.m. and continued until 11 a.m., with nearly 80 balitharas set up for the devotees. To facilitate the transportation of devotees, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operated additional services from various locations across the district. Approximately 500 police personnel were deployed to maintain security and ensure the smooth conduct of the rituals. The Department of Fire and Rescue Services and the bomb squad were also present to handle any emergencies. The bali tharpanam rituals were not limited to Aluva; they were also conducted at the Chelamattom Sree Krishna Temple near Perumbavoor, where hundreds of people performed the rituals. KSRTC arranged special services to transport devotees from Perumbavoor and Angamaly. In addition, people visited the Muthalakadavu in Sree Krishna Temple, Kalady, and the Sivarathri Kadavu along the Ashramam Road to observe the ceremonies. To read more about this event, visit The Hindu website.