Devotees believe that the departed souls attain "moksha" (liberation) if the ritual is performed on 'Karkidaka Vavu' (new moon day in July-August).
Periyar river bank at Aluwa, one of the holy rivers of the state, witnessed a heavy rush of devotees from early morning.
The Cochin Devaswom Board had made necessary facilities for people to offer 'bali tharpanam'.
The Travancore Devaswom Board had made elaborate arrangements to help people offer 'bali tharpanam' at holy places like the nearby Shangumugham beach here, Thiruvaloom Parasurama Temple, Papanasam beach at Varkala and Shiva Temple at Aruvippuram.