Tamil Nadu Minister for Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments, P.K. Sekarbabu, has announced restrictions for the upcoming Karthigai Deepam festival in Thiruvannamalai. Devotees will not be allowed to climb the hill, except for those involved in carrying essential items for the lighting of the Maha Deepam.
Addressing the media, the minister clarified, “The lighting of the Maha Deepam on the hilltop will not face any interruptions. This year, we expect over 4 million participants, and appropriate preparations are being made.”
Following environmental concerns about the hill, a team of eight experts led by Professor Premalatha, under the directives of the Director of Geology and Mining, Saravanavelraj, conducted a three-day field study. Based on their recommendations, only authorized personnel, including police and forest department officials, will be permitted to carry essential items such as 350 kilograms of wicks, 600 kilograms of ghee, and other materials to the hilltop.
Devotees will not be allowed to climb the hill under any circumstances. For the Bharani Deepam ceremony, 500 devotees who applied online, along with temple patrons, sponsors, government officials, and journalists, totaling 6,500 people, will be permitted to participate.
For the main Deepam ceremony at the temple premises, 11,600 people, including VIPs, online applicants, government officials, journalists, and police personnel, will be allowed entry.
Minister Sekarbabu emphasized that entry to the temple will be strictly regulated, requiring special permission passes. Six entry points equipped with QR code scanners will be set up at the temple to ensure smooth and secure access.
These measures aim to ensure the safety of the hill and manage the massive influx of devotees expected during the festival.