Karkadaka Vavu Bali, the significant Hindu ritual held in memory of departed ancestors, commenced in Kerala during the early hours today. The rituals are being observed as a mass event at various temples and riverbanks across the state.

The ritual is performed on the no-moon day, Amavasya, of the Malayalam month Karkidakam. Devotees, men, women, and children offer ritualistic homage called bali to their ancestors on this sacred day.  Prominent gatherings are being witnessed at the banks of the Periyar River in Aluva and various coastal locations such as Papanasam, Varkala, Thiruvallam, Shangumukham, and Varakkal beaches from early morning. Efforts are underway to maintain the Green Protocol during the rituals. Civic bodies and district administrations have issued necessary guidelines to ensure an eco-friendly observance. Special bus services and Kochi Metro’s early morning trips have been arranged to assist devotees in reaching the ritual venues. Anticipating heavy rain, authorities have also implemented stringent safety measures at all major sites.