Thousands throng Madurai's Thiruparankundram temple for Panguni festival procession
Madurai, April 5
Thousands of devotees gathered at the Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple to witness the grand temple car procession as part of the annual Panguni festival.
The deities, Lord Subramanya Swamy and Goddess Deivanai, were taken out in a majestic procession on the temple car.
Devotees thronged the temple premises from early morning to catch a glimpse of the deities.
The festival, also known as Panguni Uthiram, marks the auspicious celestial wedding of Lord Murugan and Goddess Valli, a significant event in the Tamil Hindu calendar.
Thousands of devotees chant "Ranga Ranga" as they pull the decorated chariot of Namperumal through the four Chithirai streets.
The festival is observed in the Tamil month of Panguni and is celebrated in honour of the Hindu god Muruga. Devotees make offerings to Lord Muruga with sacrificial feats they believe will keep them away from evil spirits.
Panguni Uthiram is a significant Tamil Hindu festival observed during the full moon of the Panguni month, which falls between March 14 and April 13. This festival aligns with the moon's transit through the Uttiram nakshatra (asterism) in the twelfth month of the Tamil calendar, Panguni.
It coincides with the Hindu month of Phalguna/Chaitra. Panguni marks the conclusion of the solar Tamil calendar year, ushering in the beginning of the next new Tamil year.
Panguni Uthiram is considered auspicious for Tamil Hindus worldwide. The festival is also associated with various mythological events, like the weddings of lord Shiva and goddess Parvati, lord Ram and goddess Sita and lord Murugan (Kartikeya) and Devasena.
— ANI
Reader Comments
It's heartening to see such traditions thriving. However, I hope the temple administration and local authorities ensured proper crowd management and sanitation facilities. These large gatherings need meticulous planning for everyone's safety.
Vel Muruga! The Thiruparankundram temple holds such a special place. Panguni Uthiram is not just a festival, it's a living tradition that connects us to our roots. Wishing all devotees the blessings of Lord Murugan.
The cultural and astronomical significance mentioned in the article is fascinating. The alignment with the Uttiram nakshatra shows how deeply our festivals are connected to nature's cycles. More power to such traditions.
Can almost hear the chants of "Ranga Ranga"! This is the real India, vibrant and spiritually alive. Makes me proud of our heritage. Hope to take my children next year to experience this divine atmosphere.
Beautiful to see the celebration of divine weddings. It reinforces the sanctity of marriage in our culture. The temple car must have been a magnificent sight, all decorated. Jai Muruga!
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