Chitra Pournami: Sacred Unity at Mangala Devi Temple

Thousands gathered at the Mangala Devi temple on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border for the annual Chitra Pournami festival. The temple, open only during this festival, saw rituals from both states, combining traditions. Local authorities ensured comprehensive safety and logistics for the influx of devotees.

Thousands of devotees converged at the historic Mangala Devi temple, nestled within the Periyar Tiger Reserve on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, for the annual Chitra Pournami festival on Friday.

This ancient temple, believed to be over a millennium old, opens its doors only during the full moon day of the Chitra month each year, drawing large crowds from both states. The event, organized by the Kerala and Tamil Nadu governments, featured traditional rituals reflective of both regions.

Preparations, coordinated by the Idukki and Theni district authorities, included comprehensive safety and logistics provisions for the devotees. Key officials, including Idukki District Collector Dr. Dineshan Cheruvatt, were present to oversee the proceedings.