Azhagar Kovil Gears Up for Grand Aadi Therottam – Chariot Preparations in Full Swing
The Aadi Peruvizha (Aadi Grand Festival) at Madurai Azhagar Kovil began on August 1st with the traditional flag hoisting (Kodi Etram) ceremony. One of the major highlights of this festival, the Therottam (Chariot Procession), is scheduled to take place on August 9th.
In the days leading up to the grand event, Lord Sundararaja Perumal is taken in procession daily inside the temple premises on various vahanams (divine vehicles) including the Swan (Anna Vahanam), Lion (Simma Vahanam), and Hanuman Vahanam, blessing the devotees. A large number of devotees have been gathering every day to witness the darshan of the deity.
The main events of this Aadi festival — the Chariot Procession (Therottam) and the opening of the Pathinettam Padi (sacred eighteen steps) — will be held on August 9th. The Therottam will commence at 8:40 AM, followed by rituals and sandalwood paste offerings at the Pathinettam Padi from 6:00 PM onwards.
As the grand day approaches, final preparations for the Therottam are in full swing. This includes checking the chariot wheels, stacking the wooden beams, fixing the ropes, and decorating with colorful flags. All work is being carried out with great devotion and urgency.
In celebration of the Aadi festival, the entire Azhagar Temple is illuminated with vibrant electric lights, giving it a majestic festive glow.
