Thoothukudi (Tamil Nadu) [India], October 27 : The Tiruchendur Subramania Swamy Temple is witnessing an influx of devotees as the town of Tiruchendur gears up for the famous Kanda Sashti festival.
The Tiruchendur Subramania Swamy Temple is the second of Lord Murugan's six sacred abodes. The temple is globally renowned for Soorasamharam, the most significant event of the Kanda Sashti festival.
Lakhs of devotees travel to Tiruchendur every year, not only from across Tamil Nadu but also from other states.
This year, the Kanda Sashti festivities began on October 22 with the Yagasalai Pooja, attracting devotees from various states. The much-awaited "Soorasamharam" was held on Sunday.
The ritual is a reenactment of Lord Murugan's victory over Soorapadman and is one of the most spiritually and visually spectacular events.
The event is marked by a grand procession, where a large effigy of the demon is carried through the streets before being set ablaze. This ritual symbolises the victory of good over evil and is believed to bestow blessings and protection on devotees.
Elaborate security arrangements were put in place ahead of Soorasamharam. Around 4,000 police personnel were deployed for duty, and over 250 CCTV cameras were installed on and around the temple premises to ensure round-the-clock monitoring and the smooth conduct of the celebrations.
The festival begins on the New Moon day of the Tamil month of Aippasi. Skanda Sasti commemorates the destruction of evil by the Supreme General Kartikeya, son of Shiva, and is today celebrated with the dramatic enactment of 'Soora Samharam'.This is followed by the celestial wedding of Lord Murugan with Devasena. The 'Soora Samharam' performed at the Tiruchendur temple draws a large number of devotees from all over Tamil Nadu and Southeast Asia.
The Tiruchendur Subramania Swamy Temple is located at the eastern end of Tiruchendur, in the district of Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. It is the second of the six sacred abodes of Lord Murugan and is deeply revered by the Hindu community.