“Celebrations” are one of the basic human needs that one must not and cannot deny. One of the main reasons people love celebrations is that they bring joy, happiness, and excitement, and above all, they connect people of various cultures, traditions, and even religions sometimes. One such festival is the most famous “Chithirai Festival” which is celebrated in the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, Madurai, whose specialty has been not just the “talk of the town” but the “talk of the world” over several years. Read through the blog and learn all the facts that are the reason for pulling millions of people from across the globe to Madurai during this celebration.
Chithirai Festival, also referred to as Chithirai Festival or Meenakshi Thirukalyanam, is an annual Tamil Hindu commemoration held in the city of Madurai during the month of April. This festival, observed in the Tamil month of Chithirai (April- May) is closely associated with the Meenakshi Amman Temple, which is dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi, an incarnation of Parvati, and her consort Sundareshwar, an embodiment of Shiva. The duration of this festival spans one month. The initial 15 days are dedicated to celebrating the coronation of Meenakshi as the divine ruler of Madurai and her sacred union with Sundareshwar. Subsequently, the following days are devoted to commemorating the journey of Kallalagar or Alagar, a manifestation of the deity Vishnu, from his temple in Alagar Kovil to Madurai.
In general, stories revolving around deities hold great fascination, with some being regarded as true events and others as mere legends. According to legend, the Chithirai Festival celebration, recounts the tale of Malayadhvaja Pandya, the Pandya king, who ardently desired a son and heir. In his pursuit, he meticulously conducted a fire ceremony, beseeching the gods to grant his wish. However, instead of a son, he was blessed with a daughter named Meenakshi, who was born with three breasts. Meenakshi, who later became the princess of Madurai, exhibited exceptional valor and bravery. During a particular incident, while endeavouring to conquer Mount Kaishal, she found herself enamoured by Lord Shiva, who promised to marry Meenakshi in her homeland of Madurai.
As per his promise, he arrived in Madurai and solemnized the union with Meenakshi. Conversely, Kallalagar, also known as Sundararaja Perumal, who is believed to be Meenakshi’s brother, embarked on a journey from Alagar Kovil to Madurai on horseback to attend his sister’s wedding. Along the way, numerous individuals extended a warm reception to Alagar, venerating and presenting offerings to him, inadvertently causing a delay in his journey to Madurai. After several hours, upon his arrival in Madurai, he discovered that his sister’s wedding had already concluded. Disheartened and incensed by this news, Alagar proceeded to the Vaigar River and retraced his steps back to his original destination. Hence, the observance of Chithirai Festival is undertaken to commemorate the sacred union of Meenakshi and Sundareshwarar. Additionally, it serves as a grand reception to welcome Alagar, who graces the city solely on an annual basis.
Although this festival is widely celebrated, it is possible that some individuals are unaware of its true historical origins. Presently, people of all castes and creeds partake in this celebration. However, it is worth considering that in ancient times, individuals who now unite regardless of their caste, class, or religion engaged in fierce conflicts, with disputes over Hindi sects serving as a central catalyst for such rivalries.
In ancient times, the simultaneous occurrence of Meenakshi’s wedding and the arrival of Alagar did not happen. Meenakshi’s wedding took place within the months of Maasi (February to March), while Alagar’s arrival was observed in the months of April to May. It was King Tirumala Naiker who ordered to postpone Meenakshi’s wedding to the month of Chithirai (April–May) during Alagar’s arrival.
Historical records indicate the existence of two distinct groups of Hindu devotees, namely the Saivites, who followed Lord Shiva, and the Vaishnavites, who revered Lord Vishnu. Under the reign of King Tirumala Naiker, these groups frequently engaged in conflicts, each asserting the superiority of their respective deities. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Naiker personally intervened and, in an effort to foster unity among the people, established a new festival known as “Chithirai Festival”. This festival is celebrated jointly by both Saivites and Vaishnavites, promoting a harmonious coexistence between the two groups.
Therefore, it is necessary to direct our attention towards two significant aspects that arise from this incident. Firstly, we must acknowledge the intellect displayed by King Thirumalai Naiker, and secondly, we must recognize his unwavering courage and ability to reschedule and rejuvenate a festival for the betterment of his subjects.
Undoubtedly, one of the most prominent highlights of the Chithirai Festival is the sacred union between Meenakshi and Sunadreshwarar. However, numerous elements contribute significantly to the overall grandeur of this joyous occasion.
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The best part of the Chithirai Festival celebration is unveiled during the procession undertaken by Alagar from Alagar Kovil to the Vaigai River in Madurai. This journey offers a profound sense of delight to all those who partake in it. Along the route, there are designated areas known as Mandapams—sacred halls where Alagar manifests himself before millions of devoted followers. As he visits each Mandapam, people not only offer their prayers to him but also extend a fervent dance and exuberant cheer, with the crowd resounding in unison, chanting “Govindha Govindha,” which signifies the protector of the land and the essence of life on earth. Whichever sacred hall you go to, you will see a long queue standing to taste lip-smacking traditional Tamil food known as puliyotharai (turmeric rice) and sundal (boiled black channa).
During the period of Alagar’s journey to Madurai, individuals undergo a transient state of insomnia due to the complete absence of melatonin, a hormone responsible for inducing sleep in human beings. This is primarily attributed to the incessant playing of the electrifying beats of the popular Tamil folk song, Alagar Varavar—truly a Goosebumps song—which induces them to revel in the night through energetic dancing and fervently following Alagar to every mandapam he visits.
From the moment when Alagar enters the city, particularly Tallakulam to Goripalayam, a highly bustling stretch within the urban area, to the break of dawn when Alagar pays a visit to the Vaigai River, every instance encountered in Madurai is a combination of euphoric sensations, particularly for the younger generation. The presence of illuminations, melodious tunes, vibrant balloons, a merry go round, and an array of captivating colors throughout the surroundings creates an ambiance akin to a grand celebration, almost as if it were a “Gala Day” graciously sponsored by Alagar.
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Regardless of the joyousness of the evening, individuals will inevitably become intrigued, and their excitement will be ignited in anticipation of Alagar’s visit to the Vaigai River the following morning. Individuals who have eagerly anticipated witnessing a particular event throughout the entire year will finally have the opportunity to behold it on the day when Alagar descends to the Vaigai River. One could observe the entire population of Madurai congregating at the Vaigai River. The individuals who visit the river engage in playful activities, joyfully splashing water at one another, while a significant portion of the onlookers behold the awe-inspiring spectacle of Alagar, mounted on a magnificent golden horse, gracefully making his way into the refreshing, shimmering waters of the river. Among those crowds of Madurai people shouting ‘Govindhoo!’ out of excitement! Is truly a sight to behold.
In addition, one may also witness many individuals engaged in filling bags crafted from goatskin with turmeric-infused water. These water bearers partake in traditional Tamil dance and then embark on a procession from Tallakulam to the Vaigai River, wherein they subsequently release the water onto Alagar. This spectacle is truly remarkable, as the gentle sun rays intermingle with the sprayed water, resulting in a captivating golden hue.
Surprisingly, irrespective of one’s affiliation with Madurai or Hinduism, an individual is bound to undergo a novel and profoundly gratifying experience that will evoke an enduring sense of anticipation for the annual recurrence of this event.
People always stick to technology, forgetting their own traditions and cultural practices, as some find it very appropriate for the present day. Consequently, certain festivals and celebrations have undergone intentional or unintentional modifications, deviating from their original traditions and cultural roots. However, Madurai’s Chithirai Festival steadfastly preserves its ancient customs, even today.
According to legend, many years ago, Alagar embarked on a journey to Madurai, bedecked with numerous jewels, on horseback. As he approached a particular area known as Kallandhiri, infested with thieves, an audacious thief attempted to rob Alagar’s precious gems. However, this spiteful act resulted in the thief losing his sight. Overwhelmed by remorse, he implored Alagar for forgiveness and acknowledged the error of his intentions. Furthermore, he vowed that whenever Alagar undertook a trip to Madurai, he and his fellow community members would ensure unwavering protection throughout the entirety of his journey. Till now, individuals residing in Kallandhiri, especially those who belong to the Kallar community, have been accompanying Alagar on his voyage to Madurai, bearing Thiripandham, a beacon, and Velkambu, a spear.
Alagar is referred to by an alternative appellation, Kallalagar, which denotes a thief. It is important to clarify that this term does not imply any wrongdoing on the part of the divine being. According to other narratives, it is believed that Alagar, upon his journey to Madurai, noticed the potential presence of thieves in a specific vicinity. In a display of resourcefulness, Alagar himself disguised himself as a thief in order to escape from potential threats. This accounts for the name “Kallalagar.” Remarkably, even to this day, Alagar continues to manifest before his devotees in the guise of a thief.
The month of Chithirai (April) in Madurai experiences an intense heatwave. Given that April falls within the summer season, it is anticipated that there will be no rainfall. Consequently, in order to shield individuals from the scorching summer heat and safeguard them against the transmission of harmful bacteria and viruses, which tend to proliferate amidst the large, suffocating crowds, numerous volunteers have stepped up to undertake the responsibility of spraying water infused with turmeric. This refreshing spray is directed not only towards the people themselves but also towards the idol of Alagar. Even to this day, individuals, particularly young individuals who are part of the contemporary generation, enthusiastically engage in the activity, thereby facilitating the opportunity for numerous individuals to experience the refreshing effects of water.
Celebrations play a pivotal role in fostering connections among individuals, as they provide a shared experience that reinforces a sense of identity and belonging. When people gather to commemorate cultural events or holidays, they develop a profound connection to their heritage and community, thereby cultivating stronger bonds among participants. However, Chithirai Festival in Madurai is not only enhanced the well-being of the people but also individuals from diverse regions.
To comprehend this concept, let us delve into the past, specifically during the reign of Tirumalai Naiker. From Tirumala Naiker’s perspective, Chithirai Festival was not merely viewed as a celebration that brought together people from different castes and religions, thus promoting unity. Instead, it was regarded as a means to stimulate economic growth within his kingdom and among people from other places.
During the era of Thirumalai Naiker, when cattle rearing reached its zenith, individuals from diverse regions flocked to Madurai to orchestrate extensive cattle markets, poultry markets, and other stalls. This facilitated the acquisition of livestock and other goods by attendees of this grand celebration, proving benefits for both buyers and sellers. Consequently, this commercial endeavour yielded a considerable profit for the government under the rule of the King. Such an approach, wherein the economy was built by using the resources of the local people, deserves absolute admiration.
This historical tradition persists in the present era. To this day, we witness numerous individuals journeying from different regions of Tamil Nadu and even India to establish stalls offering clothing, jewellery, food, merry-go-rounds, and various other commodities. This flourishing commercial enterprise, which grew like a huge tree, reminds us to appreciate the efforts of Thirumala Naiker, who sowed the seed for such endeavors.
1. Alagar Kovil holds significant reverence among devotees; however, the pathinetaampadi Karuppa Samy Kovil, which is located inside the premises of Alagar Kovil and devoted to the mighty Tamil deity Karuppusamy, is regarded as more paramount among the local community. They perceive him not only as a protector of the people but also as a deity of superior stature.
2. Obtaining permission to explore another city can be quite challenging. However, in Madurai, the act of obtaining permission is celebrated with great enthusiasm. You may be curious as to the purpose and significance of this permission. The permission in question is required for Alagar, and the individual responsible for granting him permission to leave for Madurai is none other than Karuppusamy. This remarkable incident takes place at Alagar Kovil, where one can witness the awe-inspiring moments of Alagar receiving permission from Karuppusamy.
3. On the occasion of Meenakshi Thirukalyanam at Meenakshi Amman Temple, each married woman earnestly requests her spouse to affix or self-attach a Hindu wedding turmeric thread, commonly referred to as thaali, simultaneously while this sacred thread is ceremoniously fastened onto the revered deity, Goddess Meenakshi.
4. The distance between Alagar Kovil and Meenakshi Amman Temple is approximately 40 kilometers. Remarkably, to this day, when Alagar embarks on his journey from Alagar Kovil to Madurai, he is transported in a conveyance known as the “Thandiyal.” This vehicle necessitates the collective effort of numerous individuals who diligently carry or pull it while traversing the distance on foot. Madurai is overpopulated with millions of devotees, overflown with joy, triumph, and celebration, and people are overwhelmed with spiritual nourishment, emotions, and social bonding. The Chithirai Festival transcends mere celebration, a realization that dawns upon one when confronted with the prospect of waiting an additional year for the return of Alagar to Madurai.
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Plan your trip to Madurai during April–May exclusively to partake in this celebration and also to bathe in the showers of love along with Alagar from the people of Madurai.
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