For the people of Aranmula, a village on the banks of the Pamba, the next two months are going to be special. The air will resonate with the Vanchipattu (oarsman's song) and the snake boats or palliyodams will cruise down the river to participate in the ritualistic Vallasadya. This feast held at the centuries old Aranmula Sree Parthasarathy Temple is perhaps one of the biggest for the masses in the state. It is an offering to the presiding deity of the temple.

The ritual

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The Vallasadya is a treat for the crew of the snake-boat. The belief is that the crew are representatives of the deities. They are welcomed at the temple ghat and taken around the temple. And then they settle down for the meal. The demands for more food is made as a song, and person making the offering is expected to be ready with whatever the oarsmen demand. There will be usually more than 60 exquisite dishes in addition to rice served on the banana leaf making it one sumptuous vegetarian meal you definitely should not miss. The person who is making the offering should feed whoever comes for the feast. This will go on till October 2, 2017.

So, why don't you make a visit to this ancient temple and be part of the feast?

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