In a grand display of devotion, Kerala devotees from all corners of the state united to perform the sacred "Karkidaka Vavu Bali" rituals on Monday. This auspicious occasion, which falls on the new moon day of the Malayalam month of Karkidakam, drew thousands of individuals who flocked to temples, river banks, and beaches to pay homage to their ancestors.
With the assistance of temple priests, the devotees meticulously carried out the rituals. The Devaswom boards and dedicated temple trusts collaborated with the government to ensure smooth arrangements. Gopakumar, a dedicated worshipper at the revered Sree Irumkulangara Dhurga Devi temple in Thiruvananthapuram, shared his heartfelt experience, stating that he was performing the rituals in honor of his father, who departed from this world a decade ago.
"The preparations for this sacred rite commenced yesterday, and I diligently observed the 'vritham' in anticipation of performing the rituals today. Following the rituals, a special feast will be prepared at home and lovingly presented to our ancestors, with all family members partaking in this meaningful act," Gopakumar expressed with reverence.
According to Hindu beliefs, bestowing obeisance (Bali) upon the departed souls during the new moon day of Karkidakam, the final month of the Malayalam calendar spanning July and August, grants them the ultimate liberation, known as 'moksha'. Karkidaka Vavu, also known as the new moon day in the Malayalam month of Karkidakam, holds significant cultural and religious importance in the state of Kerala, India. Karkidakam is considered a challenging month due to the heavy monsoon rains and its association with ailments and health issues. Karkidaka Vavu is observed as a day of remembrance and homage to ancestors, believed to provide spiritual solace and relief from suffering.
On this day, people in Kerala gather at ancestral homes, especially near water bodies such as rivers, lakes, and seashores, to perform rituals and pay tribute to their departed loved ones. The rituals include offering prayers, lighting traditional oil lamps called "Nila Vilakku," and making offerings of rice, flowers, and other items. Many people also observe a day-long fast as a mark of respect and to seek blessings for their ancestors' souls.
Karkidaka Vavu is often considered an occasion for self-reflection, introspection, and spiritual cleansing. People also visit temples and perform charitable acts as a way to express gratitude and seek blessings. Various religious ceremonies and rituals are organized by temples and cultural organizations across Kerala, attracting a large number of devotees.
Additionally, Karkidakam is also associated with Ayurveda, the traditional system of medicine in Kerala. The month is believed to be ideal for rejuvenation therapies and treatments to improve one's overall health and well-being. Many people engage in Ayurvedic practices and consume special herbal preparations during this time.
Karkidaka Vavu is a unique observance that combines religious customs, reverence for ancestors, and a focus on well-being. It reflects the cultural richness and spiritual beliefs of the people of Kerala, fostering a sense of unity and harmony among the community as they come together to honor their ancestors and seek blessings for the welfare of their families.
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