Madurai Azhagar Temple Raja Gopuram, perched atop a hill at an elevation of 266 metres above sea level, is dedicated to Sundar Rajar (Beautiful Raja) and his consort Sundravalli Thayar. Devotees, following the tradition, sought the blessings of Karuappaswamy, considered the sentry of Lord Kallaazhagar, at the foothills before embarking on the climb to the hilltop shrine.
Once every 12 years, a consecration, known as Tiruppanigal in Tamil, is performed to renew the temple’s appearance through painting and mortaring. The recent Kumbabhishekam (consecration) of the main tower, undertaken at an estimated cost of Rs. 2 crore, witnessed elaborate preparations and rituals.
Leading up to the main event on November 23, yaga kala poojas were conducted with the participation of over 40 Vedic pundits. Amidst the enchanting recitation of Vedic hymns by Bhattars, eight Kalasams filled with holy water were ceremoniously ascended atop the temple tower using specially constructed steps. The Bhattars then poured the consecrated water onto the temple Kalasam, with sprinklers strategically placed at 15 vantage points for the devotees to receive the sacred droplets.
During the ritual, a falcon bird circled the temple tower, considered an auspicious sign symbolising divine presence and acceptance of the consecration. The entire ceremony showcased the rich cultural and religious heritage of the region, attracting devotees from far and wide to witness this momentous event at Thirumaliruncholai.
#WATCH | Madurai, Tamil Nadu: Kumbhabhishekam (consecration ceremony) held at Madurai Azhagar Kovil temple's Raja Gopuram.
(Source: Madurai Azhagar Kovil Temple Administration) pic.twitter.com/8n5f7oLjbV
— ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2023
In a divine gathering, hundreds and thousands of devotees converged upon the city to witness the sacred consecration ceremony at Thirumaliruncholai. The air echoed with the resonant chanting of “Govinda Govinda” as the consecration unfolded, and special transport arrangements were orchestrated to facilitate the devotees’ participation.
To ensure the safety and security of the gathering, police personnel were mobilised adequately. The 18 tower temple at the foothills was transformed into a luminous spectacle with colourful serial lights, illuminating the night and adding to the spiritual ambiance.
Every April, a unique tradition unfolds as Lord Kallaazhagar embarks on a journey from Azhagar Koil to Madurai. This annual procession marks his presence at the celestial wedding of his sister, Madurai Meenakshi, with Lord Sundaraeswarar. Lord Kallaazhagar, riding a horse-mounted vahana, enters the Vaigai river during this grand event.
Legend has it that Manduga Maharishi, cursed to become a frog by Sage Duvarsar for neglecting his presence, found redemption during a penance performed near the Vaigai riverbank. It was during Lord Azhagar’s return to Alagar Kovil that he liberated Manduga Maharishi from the curse, creating a significant and revered moment in the religious folklore of Madurai.
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