The annual Purattasi Grand Festival commenced on Wednesday at the historic Sri Prasanna Venkatajalapathi Temple in Tallakulam, Madurai, with the traditional flag hoisting ceremony.
This temple, built by the famed King Thirumalai Nayakkar, is known for its spiritual and historical significance. The Purattasi festival is celebrated here every year with great devotion and grandeur.
As part of the inaugural rituals, a special abhishekam (holy bath) was performed for Lord Sri Prasanna Venkatajalapathi along with His consorts Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi. The deities were beautifully adorned, and the Utsavar (processional deity) was taken out in a ceremonial procession.
Following this, the flagpole (Kodimaram) was anointed with various fragrant substances, and special incense and lamp offerings were made. The flag was then hoisted amid the chanting of Vedic hymns, formally marking the beginning of the festival.
The event witnessed the participation of temple authorities and a large number of devotees.
Festival Schedule Highlights:
- Rathotsavam (Temple Car Festival): October 2
- Theppotsavam (Float Festival): October 4
- Festival Concludes: October 5
Throughout the festival period, Lord Venkatajalapathi will appear in different divine attires in the morning and on various vahanas (vehicles) in the evening processions.
