MADURAI, INDIA, April 28, 2026 (The Hindu): Thousands of devotees thronged Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar temple to witness the Thirukalyanam, the celestial wedding of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar on Tuesday. The Chithirai streets around the temple were chock-a-block with devotees. Devotees, cutting across age groups, from different parts of Tamil Nadu and other States had come to witness the grand event. Elaborate arrangements were made by the administration for the devotees. Tin sheet roofs were installed around the Chithirai streets to protect the devotees from the sweltering summer heat. LED screens had been installed for the devotees to have a virtual glimpse of the Thirukalyanam. Outside the temple, devotees distributed bags containing thali, vermilion powder and the pictures of the presiding deities to fulfil their vow. Water bottles, biscuits and hand fans were also distributed to the devotees.
As the Thirumangalyam was placed on Goddess Meenakshi, women devotees replaced their thali with a new one as per tradition. It is believed that the ritual strengthens the marital bond. After the main event, annadhanam was served to the devotees by volunteers. Sambar rice, curd rice, rava kesari and pappadams were served. Water bottles and food packets were also distributed to the devotees by the volunteers. While, scores of devotees headed to the Thirukalyana Virundhu organized by the Pazhamudir Solai Thiruvarul Murugan Bhaktha Sabhai at Sethupathi Higher Secondary School. A large number of police personnel had been deployed around the temple for the safety and security of the devotees and smooth conduct of the event.
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