‘Thirukalyanam', the wedding for the masses
Elaborate arrangements had been made for the devotees who gathered on Chithirai streets outside Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple in Madurai to witness the 'Thirukalyanam' (celestial wedding) of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar on Thursday.
Giant LED screens had been installed on all corners of the Chithirai streets for devotees to have a virtual glimpse of the 'Thirukalyanam'. As per tradition, the women devotees replaced their 'Thali' with a new one on the occasion.
The devotees eagerly paid 'moi' outside the temple as if it is the wedding of known persons. Several people distributed mangalsutra, vermilion powder and pictures of the presiding deities to fulfil their vow.
People of all ages from different parts of the State had come along with their families to attend the grand event.
Tin sheet roofs had been installed around the Chithirai streets and other places near the temple to protect the devotees from the sweltering summer heat. Water bottles, biscuits and hand fans were also distributed.
A large number of police personnel had been deployed around the temple, and ambulances, fire tenders and mobile toilets stationed near the premises.
Following the celestial wedding, thousands of devotees headed to the 'Thirukalyana Virundhu' organised by Pazhamudir Solai Thiruvarul Murugan Bhaktha Sabhai at Sethupathi Higher Secondary School, where close to a lakh devotees were treated to a grand feast.
The devotees were served several dishes that included 'ven pongal', sambar rice, tomato rice, curd rice and vegetable pulao. The essential items like rice, ghee, oil and vegetables were contributed by the devotees.
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