The air in Aranmula hums with anticipation as the sacred Parthasarathy Temple prepares to host one of Kerala’s most cherished traditions—the Ashtami Rohini Vallasadya. On September 4, thousands of devotees and representatives from 52 karas (villages) will gather for a feast that blends devotion, community, and culinary artistry in a spectacle of faith and culture.

Key facts

  • Feast begins at noon on September 4, 2026
  • Over one lakh people expected to be served
  • 52 karas (villages) participating with snakeboat representatives
  • More than 600 people involved in preparation

A Feast Steeped in Tradition

The ceremonial lamp will be lit by Travancore Devaswom Board president K. Jayakumar, signaling the start of the vallasadya. From there, representatives of the 52 karas will partake in the meal on the temple premises, each group seated in designated halls—Panchajanyam for special invitees, Krishnaveni for sponsors, and Vinayaka for village nominees. Separate coupons ensure smooth service for all.

Behind the Scenes: Preparation and Rituals

Preparation for this massive undertaking began early. At 6:45 a.m., the fire for cooking was lit using a flame brought from the temple’s sanctum sanctorum—a ritual that infuses the meal with spiritual significance. Meanwhile, devotees from Chenappady village will bring curd in a procession on Thursday, offering it at the foot of the flagstaff at 10 a.m. Ambalappuzha palpayasam, a sweet rice pudding, is being prepared by a team led by Ambalappuzha Aravindakshan Nair and will feature prominently among the delicacies.

Record-Breaking Season of Offerings

This year’s vallasadya is part of a larger season of offering-based feasts that began on July 19 and will run until September 16. Organizers note that 565 vallasadyas are scheduled—an all-time record—showcasing the enduring devotion and scale of this cultural event. The season concludes on September 16, but September 4 remains the highlight, a day when faith, food, and fellowship converge in unforgettable harmony.