Attukal Pongala today

Thiruvananthapuram: Today is the historic Attukal Pongala.  In the context of covid, this time too, like last year, Pongala offerings were restricted to homes.  The fire lit in the Pandara hearth of the temple at 10.50 am today.  Within the temple premises, a maximum of 1,500 people are allowed to visit the temple, one per 25 square feet.  Visitors are required to produce an RTPCR Negative Certificate within 72 hours or a certificate of covid Positive within three months.  Children under 18 who are asymptomatic can enter with family members.  The directive also applies to volunteers.  People with symptoms are not allowed inside the temple.  The organizers have also directed to ensure that the covid protocol is strictly adhered to inside and around the temple.  Only 25 people, including priests, are allowed to attend.  Only official vehicles will be allowed to accompany the procession.  No public escort vehicles, loudspeakers or advertising vehicles.  Worship or other vows are not allowed.  The Collector has announced Holiday for government and quasi-government and educational institutions in Thiruvananthapuram in connection with Pongala.