Chennai observed Masi Maham celebrations on March 2 and 3, with temple processions carrying utsava idols to the sea for ceremonial dips. The events coincided with other festivals like Lent, Ramzan, and Holi under a full moon. At the Velleeswarar Temple in Mangadu, the deity Sri Chandrasekarar was taken to Marina Beach for the Theerthavari ritual.
The Masi Maham festival, occurring during the Maham star phase that lasted two days, drew devotees to various temples in Chennai on March 2 and 3. This period also overlapped with global observances such as Lent and Ramzan, while the full moon enhanced the Holi celebrations, infusing the city with vibrant colors.
In Mangadu, the Velleeswarar Temple participated actively. The utsava deity, Sri Chandrasekarar, was processionally carried to Marina Beach for the Theerthavari ceremony. Ramesh Gurukkal, a priest at the temple, explained that the procession started following an early morning abhishekam. Upon reaching the beach, a kalasabhishekam was conducted as part of the rituals.
These festivities highlight the rich cultural traditions of the region, where temple idols are ritually bathed in the sea to symbolize purification and renewal. Similar processions occurred at other temples, though specific details from those sites were not detailed in reports. The events fostered a sense of community amid the concurrent religious observances.
