Vallasadya season begins at Aranmula
Hundreds of devotees gathered at the temple premises here to take part in the event. By morning, oarsmen on board seven palliyodams (snake boats) arrived at the temple ghats to a rousing reception. The oarsmen, clad in traditional attire, were welcomed with betel leaves, areca nuts and tobacco, before being ceremoniously led into the temple grounds.
In a scene charged with devotional fervour, the boat crews circumambulated the sanctum, chanting the vibrant verses of the Vanchippattu (boat songs) in praise of Lord Krishna, the temple's presiding deity.
Transport Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar formally inaugurated the event by lighting the ceremonial lamp. Health Minister Veena George, MP Anto Antony, and other dignitaries were also present .
This year, 52 palliyodams from villages lining both sides of the Pampa, from Idakkulam to Chennithala in Alappuzha —will participate in the celebrations.
A major cultural spectacle, the Vallasadya and the accompanying regatta have long been a magnet for pilgrims and tourists alike. The famed Aranmula boat race is scheduled for September 9, followed by the grand Ashtami Rohini Vallasadya on September 14. The season will culminate on October 2.
To ensure the smooth conduct of the celebrations, a special committee formed by the Palliyoda Seva Sangham (PSS) is overseeing the arrangements. Security has been intensified in and around the temple precincts and a fire and safety scuba diving team has been deployed at the river ghats.
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