An Observance Performed in Honour of the Forefathers
Vavubali is offered in the month of
Karkidakam on the 'karkidakavavu' day (the new moon in the month of Karkidakam). Thousands of people offer it as a tribute to the departed souls. This rite is mainly performed at Parashuram Temple in
Thiruvallam, Shanghumughom beach, Aruvikkara, Papanasam Beach in Varkala,
Bharathapuzha at
Thirunavaya in Malappuram district,
Kozhikode beach and other temples and beaches. Elaborate arrangements are made to offer this observance and it is performed all over Kerala. People observe fast on the day before this annual ritual. It is carried out under the supervision of priests and after offering it, the person would take a dip in the sacred water.