Chennai: The Sakthimaalai Irumudi function commenced in Melmaruvathur today in a grand manner. It was initiated by the head of the Melmaruvathur Adhiparasakthi Anmika Iyakkam, Lakshmi Bangaru Adigalar, and the ceremony will go on till 20 January. With the traditional music reaching the ears of the devout, the special poojas began at 5.45 am.
The first abhishekam for the day was performed by nine children and nine couples.
Every year, prior to the Thai Poosam festival, devotees wear sakthimaalai in the Tamil month of Karthigai and irumudi for Amman and perform special abhishekam. Usually, men, women and children undergo three to five days viratham.
On 21 January, Lakshmi Bangaru Adigalar will light the Thai Poosa jothi and the function gets ready to take place amidst a grand set-up.
Other facilities like control rooms, first-aid, ambulance and fire service, parking lots are being arranged by more than 1,000 devotees in the temple.