Chennai, Jan 11: The Department of Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR & CE) has unveiled a plan to take 1000 elderly devotees on a pilgrimage to the sacred Arupadai Veedu, the six abodes of Lord Murugan in the state. What makes this pilgrimage even more special is that the entire journey will be undertaken at no cost to the devotees, as the department is set to cover all associated expenses under its free pilgrimage scheme.The pilgrimage, catering specifically to elderly devotees aged between 60 and 70 years, will encompass visits to the renowned Murugan temples located at Thiruparankundram, Tiruchendur, Palani, Swamimalai, Thiruthani, and Pazhamudircholai. The initiative reflects a commitment to providing spiritual experiences to those who may otherwise face challenges in undertaking such journeys.
Minister P K Sekarbabu made the announcement during the floor of the assembly while discussing the demands for grants for the HR & CE department in the financial year 2023-2024. The scheme is designed to accommodate 1000 devotees annually, divided into five batches of 200 individuals each.