Madurai, Apr 24: Water has been released from the Vaigai Dam to facilitate the grand Chithirai Festival celebrations in Madurai, particularly the much-awaited Kallazhagar event. The move is aimed at ensuring adequate water flow in the Vaigai River for the ceremonial entry of Lord Kallazhagar, one of the most significant highlights of the annual festival.
According to reports, the water release is part of routine arrangements made by the Public Works Department to maintain sufficient water levels in the riverbed during the festival period. The Kallazhagar procession, where the deity symbolically enters the Vaigai River, draws lakhs of devotees every year and is considered a deeply spiritual and cultural event.
The Chithirai Festival, celebrated during April–May, is one of Tamil Nadu’s largest temple festivals, combining the celestial wedding of Goddess Meenakshi with the journey of Lord Kallazhagar from Alagar Kovil to Madurai. Authorities undertake extensive preparations, including water management and infrastructure arrangements, to ensure the smooth conduct of the event, which remains a major religious and cultural attraction in the region.