Thiruvananthapuram: The capital city is immersed in devotion as thousands of women from across Kerala and beyond gather to offer the sacred Pongala to Goddess Attukal Bhagavathy. The grand ritual commenced with the lighting of the ‘Pandara Aduppu’ (main hearth) at the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, marking the official beginning of the festival.
As the flame from the sanctum spreads through countless hearths, women devotees, dressed in traditional attire, prepare rice, jaggery, and coconut-based offerings in earthen pots, seeking blessings from the Goddess. The streets of Thiruvananthapuram have transformed into a sea of faith and devotion, with devotees occupying every available space to perform the revered ritual.
Authorities have put in place extensive security and traffic arrangements to ensure a smooth and peaceful conduct of the festival. Medical aid stations, water kiosks, and sanitation facilities have been set up at multiple locations. As the city resonates with prayers and hymns, the Attukal Pongala once again stands as a testament to Kerala’s deep-rooted spiritual traditions and communal harmony.
