Nagercoil, August 7, 2013: The Triveni Sangamam (confluence of three seas) at Kanyakumari, Tamirabharani river at Kuzuthurai, Valliyar river at Thuckalay, Pazhayar river at Nagercoil and other water bodies in different parts of the district witnessed huge crowds since early morning on Tuesday in view of Aadi Ammavasai.

The people gathered near the water bodies to perform ‘balitharpanam’, a ritual performed in memory of the ancestors and to seek their blessings for the prosperous life of their decedents.

Those who performed ‘balitharpanam’, known as ‘orikkal’ in the district, observed fast the previous day. After the ritual, they took a holy dip in the water bodies.

Long queues were witnessed in front of the famous Bhagavathy Amman Temple in Kanyakumari, Vettunthi Sastha Temple at Kuzuthurai and other temples situated near water bodies, where the people congregated to offer special pujas to the presiding deities after performing the ritual.

The Bhagavathy Amman Temple was opened at 4.00 a.m. after the ‘nirmalya’ puja was performed. After performing ‘balitharpanam’, the people ate ‘sathya’ (a combination of kootu, payasam and rice) from banana leaves after dedicating it to their ancestors at their houses.

The Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (Tirunelveli Division) operated special buses from various destinations, including the neighbouring Tirunelveli district, to Kanyakumari.

Tuticorin

Aadi Ammavasai was celebrated with religious fervour on Tuesday. Many devotees congregated at beaches in various parts of the district to observe various rituals. Similar scenes were also witnessed on the riverbed of Tamirabarani.

Source: The Hindu, August 7, 2013