Devotees question fee collection for immersing ashes in Periyar

Time of India

07-07-2025

Kochi: Travancore devaswom board (TDB) began imposing a fee on devotees who immerse ashes, a ritual followed by Hindus after cremation, in Periyar River adjacent to Aluva Mahadeva Temple.
The decision to impose a fee of Rs 50 is being questioned by devotees.
Fee system came into effect on July 1. On average, around 50 people from various parts of the state arrive at Manappuram daily to perform this ritual, whereas the number increases on religiously important days. Devotees have started questioning TDB for imposing a fee for immersing ashes in a river that falls under the jurisdiction of irrigation department.
At the same time, people's representatives feign ignorance about TDB decision.
"We heard it from news reports. We don't have any other details. Moreover, the issue doesn't come under the purview of Aluva municipality," a municipal councillor said.
It is learnt that TDB has set up a counter at the site to collect fee using temporary staff. Though TOI tried to contact temple administrative officer over phone, the official didn't respond.
According to devotees, TDB takes responsibility for cleaning bathing ghats and riverbanks during major events such as Shivaratri and Karkidaka Vavu, but riverbanks remain dirty with garbage on normal days.