The Mahamagha Mahotsavam, widely regarded as Kerala’s equivalent of the Kumbh Mela, commenced on Friday along the banks of the Bharathapuzha at Thirunavaya with a series of traditional religious rituals. The opening day was marked by special poojas conducted under the guidance of Swami Abhinava Balananda Bhairava, drawing devotees from various Hindu sects across the State.

From early morning, worshippers gathered at Thirunavaya to perform deity worship and ancestral rites, strictly following the customs and practices of their respective traditions. The spiritually charged atmosphere reflected the importance of the site, which has long been associated with ritual observances connected to liberation and remembrance of ancestors.

Beginning at 6 am, a Veera Sadhana ceremony was held under the leadership of Ayinipulli Vaishakh, adding to the sequence of sacred events planned ahead of the formal inauguration. On Saturday morning, the Vedic Shraddha Karma will be conducted by Cherumukku priest Vallabhan Akkithiripad, who will serve as the Acharya. This ritual will formally mark the ceremonial inauguration of the Mahamagha Mahotsavam at Thirunavaya.

The festival is scheduled to officially begin on February 19, when Governor Rajendra Arlekar will inaugurate the event at the Navamukunda temple premises at 11 am. The Mahamagha Mahotsavam will continue until March 3, featuring a range of religious observances and ceremonies.

Mahamagham Sabhapati and Mahamandaleshwar Swami Anandavanam Bharathi stated that all necessary arrangements have been made to ensure the smooth conduct of the festival. Although a step memo issued by the Thirunavaya village officer restricting temporary constructions along the riverbanks remains in force, the district administration has granted special permission to facilitate the conduct of the event.