Close to a lakh devotees gathered on the Vaigai riverbed early Friday morning to witness Lord Kallazhagar entering the river, the highlight of the annual Chithirai festival. Thousands then performed 'theerthavari' by spraying water on the deity as it proceeded to Ramarayar Mandapam. The event drew crowds from far and near in Madurai.
Close to a lakh devotees from far and near descended on the Vaigai riverbed early on Friday morning to witness Lord Kallazhagar entering the river as part of the annual Chithirai festival. The event is the highlight of the festival. Devotees of all ages thronged the venue from Thursday night itself, waiting patiently along with their families and friends.
While most devotees were on the riverbed and in the river, a large number perched on Albert Victor bridge and nearby vantage points to catch a glimpse of the deity.
Thousands of devotees then sprayed water on Lord Kallazhagar using goatskin water bags as the deity made its way to the Ramarayar Mandapam after entering the river. Devotees, including children dressed up as Lord Kallazhagar, thronged the mandapam for the 'theerthavari' ritual. It is believed that dressing up like the deity pleases him to fulfil their vows.
Spraying water on Lord Kallazhagar to cool him from the sweltering summer heat is considered a service by the devotees.
