The Vavubali Festival is a significant ritual celebrated in Kuzhithurai, Kanyakumari district, on the banks of the River Thamirabarani. This festival, which has been celebrated for almost a century, is a special time for the people of the district to honor their ancestors.
The festival is held annually on Aadi Amavasya Day and involves the giving of "bhali karmam," a ritual for ancestors. The festival was initially conducted for only three days, but its duration has been extended to 20 days, reflecting the importance of the celebration to the community.
To perform the bhali karmam, the person responsible for the rites must wake up early in the morning, complete their morning rituals, and arrive at the Bali Tharppanam spot. They are required to observe a fast and are usually allowed only one meal of rice on that day. The rituals are believed to offer solace to the departed souls of ancestors and bring good fortune to the living.
One story behind the festival tells the tale of Vavubali, a demon king from the Asuras race. Vavubali was a powerful magician who gained control over the earth, even threatening the gods themselves. The festival is said to have been established to honor Vavubali's sacrifice and his ultimate defeat by Lord Vishnu.
The Vavubali Festival is a religious celebration that holds great significance for the people of Kanyakumari District. It is a time when the community comes together to honor their ancestors and celebrate their cultural heritage. The festival showcases the importance of family, tradition, and community and promotes a sense of unity and harmony among the people.
In conclusion, the Vavubali Festival is a beautiful celebration that highlights the importance of honoring our ancestors and the traditions that have been passed down to us. It reminds us to appreciate the values that shape our lives and to come together as a community to celebrate our shared history and culture