Majestic Divine Wedding: Goddess Meenakshi Marries Lord Sundareswarar in Madurai

The celestial wedding of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar at Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai drew thousands, marking the pinnacle of the Chithirai festival. The grand event featured elaborate rituals, devotional hymns, and vast preparations to accommodate the faithful, underscoring Madurai's rich cultural heritage.

The historic Meenakshi Amman Temple in Tamil Nadu's Madurai district was the epicenter of divine celebration as thousands gathered to witness the celestial wedding of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar. This sacred event captivated the region, serving as the highlight of the annual Chithirai festival.

The festivities kicked off on April 29 with the traditional flag hoisting. Over the following days, the deities paraded in various vahanas along the four Masi streets, bestowing blessings upon innumerable devotees.

The ceremony peaked on the festival's 10th day with a grand wedding characterized by age-old rituals and spiritual fervor. Oduvars performed sacred hymns from the Thirumurai, enhancing the sanctity of the occasion. On an intricately decorated stage, the priest officiated the nuptials, symbolically binding the celestial couple with a diamond-studded 'thali' around the goddess at the auspicious Mithuna Lagna.

To meet the demands of the massive assembly, 20 LED screens and 300 tons of temporary air conditioning were installed, complementing the distribution of over one lakh prasadam bags. A diligent security detail of 3,000 police, headed by Commissioner Lokanathan, maintained order throughout.

Dignitaries, including HR&CE officials, ministers, and judges, dignified the occasion, while Madurai adorned itself with decorative splendor, celebrating as joyfully as if it were a grand family wedding.

(With inputs from agencies.)