Chithirai Thiruvizha Festival Honouring Communal Harmony Comes To A Close

On the occasion of Chithirai Thiruvizha, Madurai saw thousands of devotees who arrived in the city to get a glimpse of the Thirukalayanam and Kallazhagar. 

People crowding around Lord Kallazhagar | Credit: ABP Nadu

Chennai: The 21-day Chithirai Thiruvizha festivities in Madurai with Meenakshi Thirukalyanam and Kallazagar entering Vaigai River came to a close on April 21. In the thiruvizha (festival) held after two years, Madurai saw thousands of devotees who arrived in the city to get a glimpse of the Thirukalayanam and Kallazhagar. 

The festival also aimed at promoting religious harmony between Shaivas and Vaishnavas saw people of both sects. The religious songs that took over the temple city echoed harmony between the two communities.

The Meenakshi festival related to Shaivas and Alagar festival related to Vaishnavas were initially celebrated separately in different months. However, King Tirumala Nayaka changed Meenakshi festival from Tamil month Maasi to Chithirai. Later, both the festivals were merged together to unite the Shaivas and Vaishnavas.

From April 1, thousands of people gathered to witness celestial wedding of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar. The Thirukalyanam took place on April 14 at the temple premises. 

In the evening, Kallazhagar festival started after the procession was flagged off from Kondappa Nayakkar Mandapam at the temple. Later, the Lord was taken to River Vaigai on Saturday.

Several other festivities including Kodi Yetram, Pattabisekam, Dikvijayam, Chariot Festival, Ethir Sevai among others were held between April 1-21.

In the past 21 days from April 1 (no moon day), people were fasting for the welfare of their family members and for wealth.  From April 1, people wore tulasi garland and refrained from eating non-veg, smoking and consuming alcohol.