Valla Sadya, a unique mass feast.

published on July 15, 2013

                  The Valla sadya is a unique mass feast with strong devotional moorings, given to the crew of Palliyodams (snake boats) which the devotees consider a divine vessel of Lord Krishna, presiding deity of Aranmula Sree ParthaSarathy Temple. People from different palliodams reach the temple in their respective boats to take part in the valla sadya.

                 Valla sadya is conducted by the devotees as a “Vazhipadu” to the lord ParthaSarathy. The Valla sadya is dedicated to any of the boat. On the valla sadya day, the oarsmen will come to the Temple in the boat through the river. The oarsmen offered Nirapara to the presiding deity at the Nadappanthal in front of the golden temple mast and went round the temple chanting Krishna bhajans (Vanchi pattu). The entire atmosphere was charged with the rhythmic vanchi pattu, songs in praise of Lord ParthaSarathy. The `vallasadya’ began immediately after the utcha pooja at the temple. They were given a rousing reception. They circumambulated the temple, chanting the `vanchi pattu’, verses in praise of Lord Krishna, before partaking of the valla sadya.