Kerala: The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has introduced a special service to assist devotees attending the Pongala ceremony, which is significant part of the Attukal Pongala festival in the state’s capital. An air-conditioned KSRTC bus is scheduled to depart from Kottayam for Thiruvananthapuram at 9 pm on February 24 as a component of the round trip project. Special arrangements are being put in place to accommodate pilgrims wishing to perform pongala ritual at KSRTC Kerala depot premises located within a 10-kilometer radius of the temple. This initiative allows devotees to conduct the ceremony away from the crowded conditions, offering more serene environment. Devotees have the convenience to return from the same bus, ensuring a comfortable journey.
According to Binoj B. Chandran, the BTC program coordinator, the fare of the journey is set at Rs 1050 per person. Pilgrims will have access to all necessary facilities, including the use of the employee toilet complex. This exclusive service from the Budget Tourism Cell for the district is available during the festival. The Attukal Pongala festival, attracts millions of women from various parts of the state, began on February 17 and will continue for 10 days, with the pongala ceremony scheduled for February 25.
Also, read places to visit in Kerala for long weekends.
About Attukal Pongala
Attukal Pongala is a famous festival celebrated at the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. It is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy, the deity of the temple. The highlight of the festival is the Pongala ritual, where millions of women gather to prepare a sweet rice dish called “Pongala” in earthen pots as an offering to the goddess. This ritual holds significance as one of the largest gatherings of women for a religious event globally. Attukal Pongala holds a special place in the cultural and religious fabric of Kerala and is a symbol of devotion, unity, and tradition.
Interesting Facts about Attukal Pongala
Below are some amazing facts about Attukal Pongala.
- Attukal Pongala holds a Guiness World record with 2.5 million women participating in the ceremony in the year 2009.
- Attukal Bhagavathy temple is managed by local Mulla Veettil family.
- Men are not allowed in the temple premises during the festival.
- Women participating in the ceremony must adorn only traditional attire.
- Pongala is observed in an open-air setting.
- A sacred fire is utilized to ignite all the pots one by one, marking a significant aspect of the ceremony.
Also, read best trekking places in Kerala.
Conclusion
The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation has announced special service buses for devotees attending the Attukal Pongala ceremony on February 24, 2024 in Thiruvananthapuram. The fare for the journey is set at Rs 1050 per person. Devotees can check more information about KSRTC Thiruvananthapuram buses services online.