Latest news with #Vavubali
New Indian Express
5 days ago
- Climate
- New Indian Express
Thousands in Thiruvananthapuram offer ‘bali tharpanam' on Karkidaka Vavubali for ancestors
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Thousands of people offered bali for their ancestors at key sites in the Thiruvananthapuram district, as part of the annual Karkidaka Vavu on Thursday. 'The crowd is heavier than last year. Extensive arrangements have been made with the collaborative efforts of multiple departments, including fire and rescue, police and KSRTC. The bali offerings, which started at 2.30 am, will continue till 2 pm," said Thiruvallam ward councillor Sathyavathi V. Close to 40,000 people have already performed the bali rituals by morning, against the usual count of 50,000 at the Thiruvallam Parasurama Swami Temple. Arrangements have been made at nine Bali Mandapams at the temple so that close to 3,500 people can perform the rituals simultaneously. Despite experiencing rogue seas on Wednesday, the waters remain relatively calm on the day of Vavubali. 'Issues of sea wrath were there even yesterday, with two houses being severely damaged,' said the Shankhumukham ward councillor Seraphine Freddy, adding that necessary electric lines have been cut to avoid accidents at the site of bali offerings. However, this has not affected the number of devotees. The weather also remains supportive with occasional light showers. Another important site of Bali Tharpanam, the Papanasam beach at Varkala, is also experiencing light rains and strong waves. 'Wednesday evening was not as busy as the usual eve of Vavubali. However, close to 10,000 people have already performed the rituals,' Papanasam ward councillor Ajayakumar C informed. Fire and rescue officials, police officers and lifeguards have been deployed at the beach to prevent any unfortunate events. Special services have been arranged by KSRTC as part of Karkidaka Vavu, with instructions being provided to do services as per demands.
Time of India
7 days ago
- General
- Time of India
Strict green protocol to be followed for Vavubali
Thiruvananthapuram : The annual Karkidaka Vavubali ritual, scheduled for Thursday, will be held in full compliance with green protocol guidelines issued by the district Suchitwa Mission. The aim is to ensure the event remains eco-friendly and free from non-biodegradable waste. This year, the district administration has imposed a total ban on bottled water and single-use items like plastic cups and plates at all Vavubali sites. Instead, drinking water kiosks will be installed at as many locations as possible. Devotees are encouraged to use steel or ceramic utensils provided at these kiosks for both water and refreshments. Artificially sweetened soft drinks are discouraged. Natural alternatives like tender coconut water, lemon water, and neera will be promoted and served in reusable containers. Plastic straws are strictly prohibited. All flex and plastic banners have been banned. Organisers have been advised to use banners made of cloth, paper, banana leaves, or palm leaves to maintain environmental harmony. Waste bins made from natural materials such as bamboo, coconut fronds and palm leaves will replace plastic bins. Traditional offerings and light meals like ada and kozhukatta will be served on banana leaves or similar natural alternatives. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Up to 70% off | Shop Sale Libas Undo Buffet counters using steel or ceramic serving dishes will replace the use of packed meals, helping to reduce disposable waste. The guidelines also mandate strict waste segregation. Organic and inorganic waste must be separated at the source. Onsite facilities should handle organic waste processing, while cleaned and dried inorganic waste is to be handed over to local bodies or authorised scrap dealers. Plastic decorations, artificial flowers and buntings are not permitted. Only eco-friendly materials are to be used. Public announcements and signage will be used to educate participants on the environmental impact of plastic. The Suchitwa Mission stressed that public participation and cooperation are crucial for the effective enforcement of these guidelines. The ritual will be conducted mainly at Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple, Shankhumugham Beach, Aruvippuram Temple, Varkala Papanasam Beach and at many temples in the district.
