Sivaratri: Devotees throng Aluva Manappuram in Kerala for rituals

Devotees flock to Aluva Manappuram for Mahasivaratri rituals, honoring ancestors with ‘bali tharpanam’ along the Periyar river.

Thousands performed ‘bali tharpanam’ (paying obeisance to ancestors) on the banks of the Periyar river at Aluva on Monday (February 16, 2026) morning as part of Sivaratri.

Devotees thronged the Aluva Manappuram from Sunday evening to participate in the Mahasivaratri celebrations. The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) had set up around 116 ‘bali tharas’ (altars for ritualistic offerings). The Siva temple premises witnessed heavy rush on Monday morning as people from various parts of the district and outside converged on the banks of the river.

The Ernakulam Rural police had made elaborate arrangements to ensure the safety of the devotees. The police and the Fire and Rescue Services carried out intense patrol. Hundreds of personnel were posted at the venue and nearby places, including the sand ghat, control room, areas near the Siva temple, river ghat, parking area and foot bridge.

A special squad was formed to monitor repeat offenders. A special police team was deployed to control rush at the Aluva railway station. The Manappuram and nearby areas were under drone surveillance. CCTVs were installed at major junctions and busy areas. Besides, police officials were deployed in watch towers.

The authorities had also ensured ambulance services to meet emergency situations. The police had imposed traffic regulations in Aluva town and nearby till 2 p.m. on Monday in view of the celebrations. The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation operated additional services to the venue.

The district administration and the Aluva municipal authorities coordinated the works. The celebrations were held in tune with the green protocol prescribed by the enforcement agencies.