The administration of the renowned Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai , Tamil Nadu officially announced the schedule for Chithirai Festival setting the stage for a vibrant display of devotion and culture. The festival is set to commence with a ceremonial flag hoisting on April 12 taking place between 9.55 am and 10.19 am marking the beginning of nearly a month of festivities, which will culminate on April 23.


According to ANI, Temple Administration said, "The Meenakshi Amman Temple administration announced that Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple's Chithirai Festival will start with flag hoisting on April 12 between 9.55 am to 10.19 am at Mithuna Laganam.‌ The celebrations will last for almost a month, from April 12 to April 23."

"The main events of the festival include the Pattabhishekam on April 19, Meenakshi Amman Dik Vijayam on April 20, and the Meenakshi-Sundareswarar celestial wedding (Thirukalyanam) on April 21. The Chariot festival is scheduled for April 22, followed by the main event of the festival, the entry of Lord Kalaalagar into Vaigai, on April 23. This festival holds great cultural and religious significance for the people of Madurai and the southern district." they said.






 


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The Chithirai Festival, also referred to as Chithirai Thiruvizha or Meenakshi Kalyanam, commemorates the divine union between Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar. The last days of the festivals are celebrated in Alagar Hills in Madurai.


Over 10 lakh people including tourists are expected to attend the ceremony in Madurai. Lord Kallazhagar is considered as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, according to a report on ANI. Lord Kallazhagar is also Goddess Meenakshi's brother.