Thiruvonathoni sets sail from Kattoor

Thiruvonathoni, the ceremonial vessel carrying provisions for the Onam feast at the Sree Parthasarathy Temple in Aranmula, set off from the ghats of the Mahavishnu Temple at Kattoor on the Pampa river on Tuesday evening, ahead of the feast on Wednesday. Led by Anoop Narayana Bhattathiri of Mangattu Illam at Kumaranallur, the vessel began its journey from Kattoor around 6.30 pm. As per tradition, provisions for the feast were offered by 18 Nair families in the village.

The Thiruvonathoni is being accorded a ceremonial escort by a fleet of 10 palliyodams (snake boats) taking part in the Vallasadya ritual at the Aranmula temple. As the Thiruvonathoni makes its way along the Pampa, people on both banks will light lamps and cheer the procession. Many will also gather along the river at night to witness the spectacle of the boats gliding through the illuminated waters.