Thiruvananthapuram, 26 August (H.S.):Heavy rain threatened to disrupt Thiruvonam festivities as several parts of Kerala received intense showers from Wednesday morning. The India Meteorological Department said the southwest monsoon remained vigorous over the state and forecast rain or thundershowers across Kerala until August 31. Despite rain, celebrations continued with traditional enthusiasm across Kerala.

Thiruvananthapuram city and neighbouring areas were expected to remain generally cloudy, with a few spells of rain or thundershowers during the day. Yellow alerts were issued for Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Kannur and Kasaragod districts, where rainfall ranging from 7 cm to 11 cm could occur within 24 hours.

The weather agency also issued a thunderstorm warning. Squally conditions, with winds of 35 to 45 kmph and gusts reaching 55 kmph, were likely along and off the Kerala, Karnataka and Lakshadweep coasts. Fishermen were advised not to venture into the affected sea areas during the warning period.

Malayalis across the world celebrated Thiruvonam on Wednesday, welcoming the annual return of the mythical king Mahabali and marking the most important day of Kerala’s harvest festival.

Thiruvonam commemorates the homecoming of Mahabali, the benevolent Asura king believed to have ruled Kerala during an age of equality, prosperity and peace. Families marked the occasion with floral carpets, traditional feasts and gatherings, while cultural programmes and community celebrations were organised across the state.

Temples witnessed a steady rush of devotees from early morning, with special prayers, rituals and offerings held for the festival. Major places of worship made additional arrangements to manage the crowds.

Kerala also recorded a heavy influx of people returning from other states and cities to celebrate Onam in their native places. The increase in holiday traffic caused congestion in several areas on Tuesday. Vehicular movement was particularly affected along the Thamarassery Ghat Road, the key route connecting Kozhikode and Wayanad.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman